WWE’s Plans to Reintroduce Chris Jericho with New Character and Major Push

WWE isn’t just welcoming Chris Jericho back—they’re rolling out the red carpet with a major return planned for the 2026 Royal Rumble and beyond.

According to Jonathan Coachman, Jericho isn’t walking into Monday Night Raw next week—but he is heading back to WWE in a big way. Coachman took to Twitter and dropped the scoop, revealing Jericho will return at the Royal Rumble on January 31.

“Jericho will NOT be at Raw on Monday. He is scheduled to make his return at the Rumble with a whole new look at character.”

That’s not all—Coachman also revealed that WWE plans to use Jericho in a “special attraction” role going forward, similar to Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar. However, Jericho’s legendary mic skills and crowd control could earn him more regular TV time than either of those names.

“He will be a special attraction similar to how they use Roman and Brock only he will be more visible in an on air role due to his ability to cut promos and sway the audience.”

Sources close to Coachman say Jericho is in top physical condition and is gearing up for a major part in WWE’s plans between the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber. While Fozzy tour dates will limit some appearances, he’s reportedly locked in for a major storyline.

“He does have a Fozzy stint already booked between the Rumble and Chamber but is scheduled to be a big part of the Chamber plans.”

Jericho’s AEW contract expired at midnight on December 31, 2025, ending a six-year run. His free agent status was first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Jon Alba, who hinted Jericho was “WWE-bound.”

Now with Royal Rumble plans in motion, it looks like WWE is treating Jericho as the must-see return of the year.

Do you like the idea of Chris Jericho as a special attraction with a new character in WWE? Or should he go back to his old ways? Drop your thoughts below and let us know!