Triple H has hinted at surprises for the upcoming WWE Royal Rumble PLE this Saturday, with fans eagerly anticipating the possible return of Chris Jericho. Jericho’s AEW contract was reportedly set to expire at the end of December 2025, fueling widespread speculation about his comeback.
Expectations for Jericho’s return intensified after hints were dropped before the RAW on Netflix Anniversary show on January 5th. RAW general manager Adam Pearce teased the event by referencing the phrase,
“who will break the walls down,”
a nod to Jericho’s entrance theme.
Kevin Owens Remains on the Sidelines Despite Fan Hopes
Kevin Owens, who shares a complicated history with Jericho, has also been absent from WWE programming since January 2025 due to surgery recovery. Although Owens recently shared footage of himself training, suggesting a possible early comeback, the official timeline still points to a return at SummerSlam 2026.
Neither Jericho nor Owens will participate in the Royal Rumble PLE, as things currently stand. Jericho’s presence on the AEW roster page remains unchanged, casting doubt on whether he has officially left the promotion. Meanwhile, Owens is recuperating but will be actively part of the wrestling community’s events, including a social gathering in Orlando, Florida.
Owens will attend a watch party alongside Michin at Dave & Buster’s in Orlando during the Royal Rumble weekend, confirmed by a colleague on X who stated,
“WWE Watch Party at Dave & Busters on International (Orlando) this Saturday with @FightOwensFight and I this Saturday for #RoyalRumble come through!”
Owens will follow with interest as his longtime friend Sami Zayn challenges Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship, but his own in-ring comeback remains most probable for summer 2026.
Potential Storylines if Jericho Returns and Joins WWE Again
A Jericho return to WWE could reignite several compelling narratives, especially involving Kevin Owens. Their history dates back to one of the most memorable betrayals in WWE lore, the Festival of Friendship in 2017, which energized fans worldwide.
The two were poised for a world title clash at WrestleMania 33, but Vince McMahon altered plans by stripping Owens of the title and awarding it to Goldberg. Instead, Jericho and Owens competed for the United States Championship, producing highly praised storytelling and chemistry.
If Jericho commits to WWE again, revisiting their dynamic—whether in renewed rivalry or as a tag team—would be a strategic move. Jericho himself has expressed a clear desire to work with Owens upon his return, fueling anticipation among fans.
Imagining Owens returning from injury to interrupt a Jericho promo highlights the dramatic potential of their ongoing saga.
Looking Ahead: Impact of the Delays and Future Prospects
With Owens’ recovery extending beyond the Royal Rumble and Jericho’s AEW status still unclear, WWE’s plans for these two stars remain in flux. Their eventual reunion, either as allies or adversaries, promises to be a significant storyline capable of drawing major attention.
The delay heightens fan anticipation, ensuring that whenever Owens and Jericho do step back into WWE rings, the impact will be substantial both for storytelling and audience engagement. The possibility of reigniting their famed rivalry or forming a new partnership is a key factor shaping WWE’s creative direction in 2026.
