Despite recent and widespread speculation about a potential return to the company, Chris Jericho’s name has reportedly not been brought up within WWE’s creative process. According to a Fightful Select report, WWE sources indicated that if any internal conversations regarding Jericho have occurred, they have not involved the creative department.
While some talent have been speculating about a return, and higher-ups confirm Jericho remains on good terms with WWE, one source described the situation as “far too early to tell.” The company is reportedly uncertain about what Jericho’s contractual status will be in the coming months. This report comes amid other claims that many within WWE believe Jericho’s return is inevitable, with his AEW contract set to expire in December of this year.
Content continues after the ad
The new report tempers intense backstage discussions from the past 24 hours, which centered on Jericho making a surprise entrance at the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia. That speculation was fueled by the imminent expiration of his AEW contract and his absence from the company’s programming since April 2025.
Media reports, including from Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, noted that WWE has an active interest in discussing a deal with Jericho once his AEW agreement concludes. The potential plan was described as a “retirement run” that could include major events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam, similar to the returns of former AEW talent such as Cody Rhodes and Ethan Page.
Jericho himself has contributed to the speculation. He recently “liked” an Instagram post referencing his contract status and has publicly stated he would consider a WWE return. His availability has also increased following the recent conclusion of touring commitments with his band, Fozzy. Jericho was last seen on AEW television in an angle where he walked out on his stablemates, Big Bill and Bryan Keith.
READ MORE: Mr. Iguana Addresses WWE RAW Debut
