Chris Jericho Believed To Have Signed New AEW Contract Before Surprise Dynamite Return

Chris Jericho’s AEW Dynamite return got plenty of attention, but the real story coming out of the show centers on his contract status, not the on-screen moment.

According to backstage talk from the April 1 episode of AEW Dynamite, the belief among talent and staff was that Jericho had already come to terms with AEW on a brand-new deal before making his return. That detail is significant because many had previously assumed he was still tied to his old contract.

"The general belief backstage last night was that Chris Jericho came to terms with AEW for a new deal," PWInsider reported.

Earlier reports suggested Jericho’s previous deal may have been paused or frozen while he was away from television. That led to speculation that he could return at any time under his existing contract rather than signing a fresh one.

Now, the belief that a new agreement was reached changes the picture entirely. Instead of simply returning under old terms, this situation points to AEW locking Jericho in again before bringing him back to TV.

The way his return was handled behind the scenes also added to the growing talk that something bigger was in place contract-wise. Jericho reportedly wasn’t even backstage until the last possible moment, which helped keep the return secret until it happened live.

Jericho was driven right into the venue about two minutes before AEW began broadcasting and went right to the gorilla position for his ring entrance.

After the segment aired, Jericho continued working behind the scenes, which only fueled more belief that this wasn’t a short-term appearance or leftover obligation from a previous deal.

Jericho filmed additional content for the company after he returned from the ring and took part in a photo shoot. Jericho made the rounds backstage and introduced himself to talents he didn't know.

If the backstage belief proves accurate, Jericho’s return wasn’t just about a surprise appearance — it was about locking him in again before putting him back on television.

Do you think AEW bringing Chris Jericho back under what’s believed to be a new contract is the right move, or should the company have focused on newer talent instead? Let us know your thoughts and leave your feedback in the comments.