John Cena is expected to conclude his in-ring career by the end of 2025, prompting speculation about who might fill the void he leaves behind in WWE. An analyst has proposed that Chris Jericho, a former AEW World Champion, could assume this significant role after Cena’s departure. Jericho, currently signed with All Elite Wrestling, is rumored to return to WWE once his contract expires, potentially stepping into some of Cena’s responsibilities within the company.
Sam Roberts, who hosts the Notsam Wrestling podcast, explained why Jericho would be a natural fit for the position that Cena will vacate. Roberts emphasized that Jericho’s potential comeback would be a major moment for WWE fans, especially as Cena prepares to say goodbye by the end of the year.
“Hearing break the walls down kick in would be massive for WWE fans. And quite frankly, I think that there’s a clear role for him to fit, which is at the end of the year, John Cena says goodbye.” —Sam Roberts, Analyst
Roberts pointed out that Cena’s final run benefits greatly from nostalgia and a loyal fanbase that might be difficult to replicate. He stated that while CM Punk currently holds a similar spot within the company, Jericho matches Cena’s role more closely, should he decide to return.
“And when John Cena leaves, that part of WWE is a little bit gone. CM Punk is there a little bit to do it, Punk is also a current star. I feel like Jericho fits that mold more than anybody, like as John Cena leaves. And I don’t mean Chris Jericho comes and says, ‘Hey, I have a year left,'” —Sam Roberts, Analyst
Creative Suggestions for Jericho’s WWE Comeback
In addition to speculating about Jericho replacing Cena’s role, Sam Roberts shared ideas on how WWE could creatively present Jericho upon his potential return. Roberts suggested that Jericho’s iconic entrance theme “Break the Walls Down” should be reintroduced, blending nostalgia with a modern twist. He also mentioned the possibility of incorporating Jericho’s AEW entrance music “Judas” into his WWE run.
Roberts envisioned a return where Jericho might reprise his “Painmaker” persona for a notable period, providing a fresh yet familiar character for the WWE audience. He underscored that long-time fans eagerly want to see the “Y2J” version of Jericho back on WWE programming.
“Chris Jericho just coming in and bringing break the walls down back and throughout that he’s in WWE, you could evolve, you could have run where he does Judas. You could have a run, I mean, the idea of bringing the pain maker back and having him be the painmaker in WWE for a period of time I think would be great. But we want Y2J, we want Y2J back, that’s what we want,” —Sam Roberts, Analyst
Potential Impact of Jericho’s Return on WWE’s Future
If Chris Jericho does return to WWE, his presence could help smooth the transition as John Cena phases out of active competition. Jericho’s established star power and connection with fans position him as a prime candidate to sustain WWE’s prominence in sports entertainment during this period of change. The move could also revitalize the company’s storylines and appeal by blending Jericho’s legendary status with new creative directions.
As John Cena prepares for his farewell run, WWE faces a crucial moment in defining its next leading figure. Jericho’s rumored comeback could represent a strategic and symbolic step in maintaining WWE’s momentum among fans globally. While nothing is confirmed, the prospect of him returning brings anticipation in the wrestling community.
