A newly released photo of Chris Jericho has intensified speculation about a possible Chris Jericho WWE comeback. The picture shows Jericho looking notably slimmer and in excellent physical condition, leading many to believe he is preparing for a return to WWE, possibly at the 2026 Royal Rumble event.
Jericho, who left WWE in 2018, has since rebuilt his career through notable runs in New Japan Pro-Wrestling and All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he made history as the first-ever AEW World Champion. Despite his ongoing contract with AEW, which reportedly runs through December 2025, the prospect of him rejoining WWE has generated considerable excitement among fans and insiders alike.
Jericho’s Current Career and Fitness Indications
Since his departure from WWE, Jericho has remained active as both a wrestler and entertainer, maintaining a high profile by performing in AEW and touring with his band Fozzy. His latest social media appearances, including a photo posted by an X user showing Jericho alongside Chris Bey during a guest spot on Jericho’s own Talk Is Jericho podcast, highlight his trim physique and overall improved health.
Fans have widely interpreted the image as evidence Jericho is keeping fit in anticipation of a significant wrestling comeback. This aligns with his recent schedule, wherein he attended various events, engaged in interviews, and focused on his podcast after his last AEW match on the April 9 episode of Dynamite.
He’s getting in shape for his rumble entry 😭 https://t.co/fY2gHc2rnnpic.twitter.com/i3IAVFCJlQ
— Adam Goldberg, Social Media Commenter
AEW Leader Tony Khan Expresses Desire to Retain Jericho
AEW President and CEO Tony Khan publicly acknowledged Jericho’s value to the promotion and openly expressed his wish that Jericho continues working with AEW. In a recent interview, Khan praised Jericho as one of AEW’s foundational stars and emphasized the importance of his contributions since the company’s inception.
Khan, who leads the Jacksonville-based promotion, indicated that Jericho’s enduring athletic condition suggests he could still compete at a high level for the foreseeable future. Although rumors of Jericho’s WWE return circulate strongly, Khan encouraged fans to keep watching AEW’s programming to observe how the situation unfolds.
Jericho’s Wrestling Legacy and World Championship Milestones
Jericho’s career achievements further add context to the fervor surrounding his potential WWE comeback. Notably, he is an eight-time world champion across various promotions. Three years ago, Jericho secured the ROH World Championship by defeating Claudio Castagnoli at Arthur Ashe Stadium, marking a significant milestone in his decorated tenure.
3 years ago today in Arthur Ashe, Chris Jericho won the ROH World title defeating Claudio Castagnoli.Thus becoming an 8x World Champion aka the Ocho.
— Drainmaker, Wrestling Historian
Outlook on Jericho’s Next Steps in Wrestling
With the 2026 Royal Rumble still months away, Jericho appears to be maintaining peak physical form possibly in preparation for a major re-entry into WWE. Meanwhile, his status within AEW remains active but uncertain, as his commitment there continues through the end of 2025. Fans and industry observers will be closely monitoring Jericho’s appearances and announcements in the coming months to see whether he resumes his career in WWE, remains with AEW, or balances roles between the two promotions.
He’s getting in shape for his rumble entry 😭 https://t.co/fY2gHc2rnn pic.twitter.com/i3IAVFCJlQ
— 👑𝔸𝕕𝕒𝕞 𝔾𝕠𝕝𝕕𝕓𝕖𝕣𝕘👑 (@AdamGoldberg28) September 22, 2025
3 years ago today in Arthur Ashe, Chris Jericho won the ROH World title defeating Claudio Castagnoli.
Thus becoming an 8x World Champion aka the Ocho.
pic.twitter.com/B4myZ3fjty— Drainmaker (@DrainBamager) September 21, 2025
