Chris Jericho‘s highly anticipated WWE return is rumored to take place on the special Netflix anniversary episode of RAW in Brooklyn, New York, setting the stage for a major surprise on January 5th. The Chris Jericho WWE return could coincide with other comebacks, including LA Knight and Chad Gable, making the event potentially historic for fans.
Potential Surprises Set for RAW’s Netflix Milestone
The first RAW of the year is already generating buzz as multiple WWE stars are expected to make comeback appearances. LA Knight, written off WWE television after a December 8th attack in a parking lot carried out by The Vision and Bronson Reed, has fueled speculation about his status for 2026. Fans initially speculated that WWE was sidelining him intentionally; however, the storyline was part of bigger plans for the former United States Champion. Knight’s sudden absence led to rumors of him being a surprise entrant in the Royal Rumble match on January 31st in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Reports from Bodyslam.net now indicate that LA Knight could return much sooner, possibly as early as next week’s RAW in Brooklyn. If confirmed, this would make him one of potentially three major surprises at the upcoming episode.
Chris Jericho, after spending six years with AEW and letting his contract expire on December 31st, is expected to be the centerpiece of returns, with heavy speculation pinpointing the Netflix anniversary show as his moment to rejoin WWE. This anticipated Chris Jericho WWE return is rumored to signal a possible retirement run for the wrestling legend with the company, reigniting interest in high-profile storylines for both him and WWE fans in New York.
Chad Gable, away from action since June due to a rotator cuff injury, is another name linked to a surprise return. There are indications that Gable may embark on a new path by becoming AAA’s top villain and feuding with Ludwig Kaiser, adopting the El Grande Americano persona.
Feud Possibilities: LA Knight and Chris Jericho
LA Knight’s return appears to be motivated by a desire for revenge against The Vision, but there is increasing interest in setting up a program between Knight and Jericho. Their careers have not previously intersected in WWE, making a prospective feud exciting for viewers seeking fresh matchups and storylines. The return of Chris Jericho could play a pivotal role in reshaping Knight’s trajectory within the company, allowing him to showcase his charisma and microphone skills alongside an established icon known for his wit and in-ring prowess.
Bully Ray, WWE Hall of Famer and respected commentator, is one of several figures advocating for a feud between the two stars. On the Busted Open After Dark podcast in August 2025, Ray shared:
“I would bring Chris Jericho back to the WWE just to work with LA Knight. If you told me that that was the only thing he was going to do for one year, that’s good enough a reason alone.”
— Bully Ray, WWE Hall of Famer
A storyline pitting Knight against Jericho could help solidify Knight’s standing with WWE decision-makers, who have stopped short of fully committing to a long-term main-event role for the Megastar. Alternatively, the company could draw inspiration from previous story arcs—such as the initial tag team run between AJ Styles and Jericho—to partner them as a dominant duo before transitioning to a feud, offering versatility to both talents.
Bronson Reed’s involvement in Knight’s previous storyline, unique to the parking lot attack, contributed to building intrigue and suspense around Knight’s next move. Meanwhile, the possibility of Knight debuting as a surprise entrant in the Riyadh Royal Rumble also keeps fans guessing.
What This Means for WWE’s Future
The Netflix anniversary of RAW in Brooklyn is shaping up to be more than a routine episode—it may turn into a pivotal moment packed with notable returns and game-changing stories. The prospect of witnessing the Chris Jericho WWE return alongside other stars like LA Knight and Chad Gable not only honors WWE’s past but also paves the way for new rivalries and unexpected alliances. The inclusion of prominent names such as Ludwig Kaiser and references to storylines extending to locations like New York and Riyadh underscores WWE’s global impact and creative reinvention.
If the rumored comebacks proceed as anticipated, the RAW in Brooklyn could mark a turning point, especially for figures like Knight, Jericho, and Gable. Their involvement has the potential to boost ratings, spark new feuds, and offer fans fresh narratives at the dawn of the new year, with the possibility of long-lasting influence throughout the company’s evolving landscape.
