The long-speculated Chris Jericho WWE RAW absence has finally been explained, putting to rest widespread rumors and fan expectations. Despite anticipation that Jericho would return for the special Netflix edition of RAW, recent reporting has clarified that he was never set to appear on the show.
Rumors Swirl Amid Jericho’s Ongoing AEW Hiatus
Chris Jericho’s ongoing break from AEW has fueled speculation about his wrestling future and possible return to WWE. Fans closely watched the January 5 episode of RAW—which marked the program’s debut on Netflix and celebrated its streaming anniversary—with many convinced that Jericho would make a surprise comeback. Adam Pearce’s social media hint, referencing “breaking walls down,” amplified the speculation. However, anticipation shifted to disappointment when Jericho, known as “The Ocho,” did not appear.
PWInsider Reveals Jericho Was Never Planned for RAW Appearance
According to reporting from PWInsider, there were never any confirmed plans for Chris Jericho to make an appearance on the much-anticipated RAW episode. In fact, Jericho remains listed on AEW’s roster, and insiders suggested before the show aired that his participation was unlikely. Fan expectations based on Adam Pearce’s “breaking walls” comment were quickly addressed by industry watchers after the broadcast.
“🚨| Per PWInsider, Chris Jericho was NEVER slated for tonight’s RAW and is in Los Angeles this week.Adam Pearce’s reference to breaking walls down was tied to the announced Stranger Things crossover. pic.twitter.com/JxJojcbfnN— EliteRockerz 𝕏 (@EliteClubS0B) January 6, 2026”
References Tied to Stranger Things, Not Jericho
It was subsequently clarified that Adam Pearce’s remarks about “breaking walls down” had no link to Chris Jericho but were instead a reference to a special Stranger Things crossover promotion. The phrase alluded to moving between dimensions—drawing upon the Upside Down from Stranger Things—rather than Jericho’s legacy theme. Sources from within WWE indicated that nobody within the company actually expected Jericho to materialize at the event, and his absence was neither a surprise nor the result of a last-minute change.
What’s Next for Chris Jericho?
As of now, Jericho’s future remains uncertain, with his name still present on AEW’s official roster and no public confirmation of a WWE return. The misinterpretation surrounding the “breaking walls down” reference has heightened fan frustration and underlines the tense atmosphere surrounding Jericho’s current status in professional wrestling. The situation leaves fans waiting for official word on the veteran performer’s next chapter amid ongoing speculation and rumors within the wrestling world.
🚨| Per PWInsider, Chris Jericho was NEVER slated for tonight’s RAW and is in Los Angeles this week.
Adam Pearce’s reference to breaking walls down was tied to the announced Stranger Things crossover. pic.twitter.com/JxJojcbfnN
— EliteRockerz 𝕏 (@EliteClubS0B) January 6, 2026
