For months, the wrestling world buzzed with speculation: would Chris Jericho shock everyone and return to WWE? Rumors swirled of a potential appearance at the 2026 Royal Rumble, even a debut on the new Netflix era of Monday Night Raw. But the spotlight remained elsewhere, and Jericho’s name stayed firmly on the AEW roster.
Then, on Wednesday night, the wrestling landscape shifted. Jericho reappeared on AEW Dynamite, electrifying a hometown crowd in Winnipeg. He declared Tony Khan’s promotion “home,” silencing the whispers of a WWE return and igniting a new chapter in his storied career.
The reaction from WWE fans was surprisingly…relieved. Online, many expressed that a Jericho return wouldn’t have benefited the company. One fan bluntly stated a 2026 run would have been a misstep, while others simply voiced their disinterest in seeing the veteran star back in a WWE ring.
The sentiment wasn’t about animosity, but a sense of fitting placement. Fans envisioned a powerful retirement run for Jericho within AEW, mirroring the celebrated farewell given to Sting. The idea of a similar, grand sendoff resonated deeply, a chance to honor a legend in the environment where he currently thrives.
Behind the scenes, the possibility of a WWE return was very real. Reports indicated “absolute” talks between Jericho and the company, though no concrete creative plans ever materialized. He wasn’t slated for any major events, suggesting the discussions remained exploratory.
Ultimately, Jericho’s decision appears to be about legacy and control. While some questioned what he had left to prove in any promotion, many believe he can still contribute significantly to AEW as a respected veteran, guiding the next generation of stars.
WWE might have envisioned a role for Jericho – a final, impactful loss to elevate a rising star like GUNTHER, or a backstage position leveraging his creative mind. However, the company’s current focus is undeniably on youth, with WrestleMania showcasing a new wave of talent.
The wrestling world evolves at a relentless pace. Even a year from now, the landscape could be unrecognizable. While a future WWE Hall of Fame induction for Jericho isn’t out of the question, all signs point towards an AEW farewell, a final chapter written within the promotion he now calls home.
Jericho himself acknowledges the twilight of his career. After over three decades in the business, he’s realistic about his remaining time. He recently admitted he doesn’t know if he has one, two, or four years left, but he’s concerned about the long-term health of today’s wrestlers who push their bodies to the limit.
His words hint at a growing awareness of his own mortality within the ring. The physical toll of a wrestling career is immense, and Jericho is keenly aware that the opportunity to perform for 35 years is a rare gift. His future, it seems, will be about making the most of the time he has left, and potentially paving the way for a new generation.
