Speculation around Chris Jericho‘s WWE return has intensified as a mysterious crate appeared on RAW, setting the stage for a possible surprise at the upcoming Elimination Chamber event on February 28. The Demo God, who has not been active in WWE since April 2025 and has been largely focused on touring with his band Fozzy, may be preparing for a significant comeback.
With WrestleMania approaching, WWE is ramping up suspense through various storylines, including the presence of a masked attacker targeting The Vision on RAW. In the latest twist, RAW’s General Manager Adam Pearce discovered a large crate backstage marked “Do not open” until the day of Elimination Chamber and arranged for it to be transported to SmackDown, fueling fan theories about Jericho’s possible involvement.
Hints of a Surprise Leading Into Elimination Chamber
The timing and secrecy around the crate have led many fans to believe it holds a link to Chris Jericho’s anticipated WWE return. Given that Elimination Chamber serves as the last major event before WrestleMania, WWE often uses this opportunity to debut or reintroduce major stars, increasing the excitement surrounding Jericho’s potential reappearance.
Jim Ross Shares Thoughts on Jericho’s Future in WWE
Jim Ross, a respected voice in professional wrestling and former AEW World Champion commentator, offered his perspective on Jericho’s career trajectory in an interview on Grilling JR. Ross suggested that Jericho may soon return to WWE, with the possibility of retiring there after an accomplished career.
“He will be there—I’m assuming, assumptions here—I’m assuming he’ll be in the lineup sooner than later. Because at his age and experience level… What are his other options if he wants to stay on TV and in the business and make a good buck? I don’t think going to WWE is a matter over paychecks. I think he wants to end his career in wrestling in WWE,” he said.
Jericho made a significant impact in AEW since its foundation in Jacksonville but has remained absent from WWE programming during the past year. His potential return would mark an important moment not only for his career but also for WWE storylines leading into WrestleMania.
Fan Excitement and Anticipation Around the Return
As fans speculate about who might emerge from the locked crate, reactions have flooded social media. Many are hopeful that Jericho will step out to confront The Vision or reveal himself as the mysterious masked figure seen attacking them on RAW. The buildup highlights WWE’s strategic storytelling to maintain tension and viewer interest ahead of its biggest annual events.
If Chris Jericho’s return is confirmed during Elimination Chamber, it could signal a major shift for both WWE’s roster and the landscape of professional wrestling, potentially culminating in marquee matches at WrestleMania. How WWE executives including Adam Pearce and others will capitalize on Jericho’s star power remains to be seen.
There’s a giant crate that says Do Not Open Until 02/28, the day of Elimination Chamber#WWERAW pic.twitter.com/a8FPuRLqDr
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 17, 2026
