Speculation about Chris Jericho possibly jumping back to WWE in 2026 just hit a wall, and this time it’s not coming from Jericho himself—but from people inside WWE creative who say they haven’t even heard his name mentioned.
The latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter claimed that AEW insiders and WWE sources are preparing for Jericho’s return to WWE as a Royal Rumble surprise once his AEW contract expires at the end of 2025. Dave Meltzer reported:
“There are those in AEW who believe that he’s not going to be back and will start in WWE as a Royal Rumble surprise.”
But in a sharp update, Fightful Select is pouring cold water on that entire narrative. Not only is Jericho not being discussed internally at WWE, but even people in AEW say it’s unlikely anyone outside of Tony Khan and Jericho himself would even know what’s really going on.
“Observer also reported that people in AEW believe Chris Jericho isn’t coming back. Those that we speak to in the company say that Jericho’s creative is usually discussed directly with Tony Khan and most people wouldn’t be in the know.”
And as for WWE? Sources say there’s no movement there either.
“We have to reiterate—Chris Jericho has not been discussed within creative of WWE, and many in the company have no clue if his contract is frozen or is ticking.”
That means all this talk about Jericho shocking the world in January might just be noise—at least for now. Ringside News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
Do you think Chris Jericho should return to WWE to close out his career, or is AEW still the best fit for him? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.