AEW President Tony Khan is reportedly considering appointing WWE veteran Chris Jericho as the promotion’s new Executive Vice President, a role that has been vacant since the All In event. Following the pay-per-view where Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay defeated the Founding Fathers, the original EVP lineup was disrupted, leaving only the Young Bucks in those executive roles. The focus now appears to be on filling this important backstage position with someone experienced like Jericho.
Rumors previously suggested that Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay might have been given EVP responsibilities; however, Strickland has denied these claims, and Ospreay has been on an extended hiatus. With Jericho not appearing on AEW television since April 2025, speculation is growing around his possible backstage involvement instead of an in-ring return. His last TV segment included confrontations with Big Bill and Bryan Keith of the Learning Tree faction.
Why Chris Jericho Could Be the Ideal Choice for an EVP Role
Fans have voiced their desire for Tony Khan to utilize Jericho’s talents behind the scenes rather than pushing him as an active wrestler. Putting Jericho in an executive role would allow him to contribute creatively and mentor newer talent, helping them grow without overshadowing them in the ring. His years of experience as a decorated veteran make him well-suited to advise younger wrestlers and shape storylines that maintain audience interest.
Recognition of Jericho’s Influence from Industry Veterans
Chris Jericho was AEW’s first world champion and a central figure during the company’s early growth. Though newer stars have risen in prominence, Jericho’s name still carries significant weight throughout the wrestling world. Wrestling legend Bully Ray recently praised Jericho’s status on Busted Open Radio, highlighting his extensive background in WWE and New Japan Pro Wrestling, alongside his crossover fame as a rock musician.
“There is no bigger star in AEW than Chris Jericho. It would be impossible, because Chris Jericho worked for the WWE, Chris Jericho worked for New Japan. Chris Jericho is a name all of the planet, whether it’s wrestling, whether it’s rock and roll band. I understand why Chris Jericho would have his own locker room,” Bully Ray said.
Jericho’s unique blend of in-ring skill, charisma, and industry knowledge continues to make him an asset for AEW, whether on-screen or behind the scenes.
Looking Ahead to Jericho’s Return and AEW’s Executive Future
As Tony Khan weighs his options, the appointment of Chris Jericho as an Executive Vice President could mark a strategic move to strengthen AEW’s backstage leadership. Jericho’s potential return in a non-wrestling capacity could provide the promotion with creative depth and veteran guidance essential during a period of roster evolution. Fans and insiders alike are awaiting confirmation and the impact this change might have on AEW’s ongoing storylines and talent development.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Tony Khan a billionaire?
A. Forbes reports that Shahid Khan, Tony Khan’s father, has over $12 billion in wealth. Though Tony Khan’s exact net worth isn’t public, it’s said to be about $1.5 billion due to his AEW ownership.
