In light of Brock Lesnar’s unexpected return to WWE, Tony Khan may bring back former AEW World Champion Chris Jericho to the Jacksonville-based promotion. Jericho has been absent from AEW television for several months, and the recent WWE developments could prompt Khan to reinstate him.
Brock Lesnar shocked fans by reappearing at WWE SummerSlam Night Two after a two-year absence, delivering an F5 to John Cena after Cody Rhodes captured the Undisputed WWE Championship. Given Lesnar’s reemergence, AEW owner Tony Khan might use Jericho’s return as a strategic move.
Chris Jericho’s History with Brock Lesnar and AEW Status
Chris Jericho, once involved in a backstage dispute with Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam 2016, is among AEW’s top performers but hasn’t appeared on television since April 2025. His real-life rivalry with Lesnar adds a compelling layer to the storyline, making his comeback likely in response to WWE’s recent activity.
As the first AEW World Champion, Jericho holds significant value for the promotion. Tony Khan’s decision to recall Jericho may be aimed at revitalizing AEW’s roster and countering WWE’s growing momentum after Lesnar’s return.
AEW and WWE Set for Competing Major Events in September
Following Lesnar’s attack on John Cena at SummerSlam, expectations for a match between the two at WWE’s Clash in Paris Premium Live Event grew. However, WWE executive Triple H instead scheduled Cena to face Logan Paul on August 31, shifting the spotlight.
According to journalist Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, a high-profile match between Brock Lesnar and John Cena is now planned to headline an unannounced WWE Premium Live Event on September 20, coinciding with AEW’s All Out pay-per-view in Paris.
Meltzer noted that WWE’s decision to withhold Lesnar from Clash in Paris aims to position him against AEW’s All Out, suggesting a strategic response to Tony Khan’s promotion.
What Jericho’s Return Could Mean for AEW’s Future
With Brock Lesnar positioned to overshadow AEW’s significant September event, Tony Khan’s possible call to Chris Jericho reflects the urgency within AEW to maintain competitive relevance. Jericho’s established history with Lesnar and his stature in AEW make him a fitting candidate to boost the promotion’s profile.
As tensions rise between WWE and AEW, Jericho’s comeback may mark the beginning of a renewed rivalry and could drive stronger viewer engagement for AEW’s upcoming shows in Jacksonville and beyond.
