Questions continue to arise about Chris Jericho‘s ongoing association with All Elite Wrestling as his period of absence extends, with increasing speculation around a possible return to WWE. In light of these developments, former wrestling writer Vince Russo has publicly urged Tony Khan to adopt a more direct approach during his ongoing negotiations with the former AEW World Champion, highlighting the complexity of the Tony Khan Chris Jericho negotiation.
Negotiation Tactics and Jericho’s Next Move
For months, wrestling fans and insiders have debated Chris Jericho’s next steps. Reports circulated last year that The Learning Tree, whose contract is set to expire at the end of 2025, might depart AEW—potentially paving the way for a WWE comeback. Despite those reports, Jericho’s profile remains active on AEW’s roster, keeping his future with the promotion in doubt. Some see this as a hint that Jericho’s time in AEW may not be over just yet, though his exact intentions remain unclear.
On a recent episode of the Coach and Bro podcast, Vince Russo and Jonathan Coachman analyzed Jericho’s approach to the situation. Russo, reflecting on his knowledge of the former JAS leader, explained that Jericho is likely leveraging both AEW and WWE negotiations to maximize his deal.
“And Coach, here’s something very interesting, let’s be honest. If anyone knows Chris Jericho, Coach and I know Chris Jericho. You are talking about a very very smart, intelligent human being. So guys, let’s be honest, what’s probably going on here is, Chris is probably playing two ends against the middle, knowing d*** well what he could get from Tony Khan.”
—Vince Russo, Former Wrestling Writer
Russo argued that Jericho’s actions reflect a calculated strategy, aiming to drive up his value by pitting the two major wrestling promotions against one another. In Russo’s view, Tony Khan’s approach to the ongoing Tony Khan Chris Jericho negotiation could be more assertive in addressing these tactics.
Calls for Tony Khan to Take a Stand During Contract Talks
Russo went further, advising Tony Khan to take a firm public stance regarding Jericho’s maneuvers. According to Russo, calling out Jericho could neutralize the veteran’s negotiation strategy and alter the power dynamic in the discussions.
“But I gotta tell you something, Coach. If I’m Tony Khan, I’m saying that, I’m saying that publicly.. I’m saying, ‘Let’s be honest. Chris Jericho is playing both ends against the middle.’ Because think about that from a negotiation point of view, now you’re shutting that down. Now you’re saying, ‘Chris, I know your game.’ And can I tell you something? I think Vince McMahon would say something like that, but I think Tony is playing right into Jericho’s hands. Because listen, at the end of the day, Chris Jericho is gonna go to the highest bidder. And Tony’s making it clear, he’s putting him over to nauseam.”
—Vince Russo, Former Wrestling Writer
Russo’s comments raise the question of whether Tony Khan, as AEW CEO, is inadvertently enabling Jericho by not publicly addressing his negotiation tactics. Russo drew comparisons to WWE’s Vince McMahon, who he believes would be more likely to confront such issues directly. The underlying implication is that Jericho will ultimately align with the organization offering the best deal, and Russo suggests that Khan is demonstrating a degree of leniency in his handling of the situation.
Tony Khan Praises Jericho’s Role While Remaining Guarded on Contract Status
While speculation persists about whether Jericho might make a surprise return at the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble or appear on Monday Night RAW, AEW has maintained an air of ambiguity regarding his status. In a recent interview with Adrian Hernandez, Tony Khan avoided specifics about Jericho’s contractual details. Instead, Khan emphasized Jericho’s essential place in AEW’s history and ongoing legacy, making clear the respect and value he attributes to Jericho within the company.
“I love Chris very much, and I would say that Chris is always a big part of AEW. This promotion is here to stay, and Chris Jericho is a huge part of our history. We’re really proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish, and Chris is an instrumental part of that.” [H/T RSN]
—Tony Khan, AEW CEO
Khan’s words reaffirm Jericho’s status as an influential figure within AEW, but his silence on contract specifics has only fueled further questions about the long-term prospects for both parties. With Jericho yet to announce a definitive move to WWE or to clarify his AEW future, the industry continues to watch closely for signs of his next step.
What Lies Ahead for Chris Jericho and AEW
As Chris Jericho’s hiatus from AEW continues amid increasing conjecture about a potential WWE return, the wrestling world remains in suspense. The Tony Khan Chris Jericho negotiation highlights the increasingly strategic nature of contract talks at the highest levels of pro wrestling, where experienced veterans like Jericho use their leverage to the fullest. Russo’s call for Tony Khan to take public action underscores the high stakes involved and the shifting landscape within professional wrestling promotions.
Whatever decisions are made during these negotiations will have considerable effects, not only on AEW and WWE but on the loyal fanbase eager for clarity on Jericho’s next chapter. Until an official announcement is made, all parties remain engaged in a complex game of strategy, with lasting implications for the wrestling business as a whole.
