Is Chris Jericho headed back to WWE in 2026? Inside his free agency, AEW exit, and possible return plans
Chris Jericho. Image Source: AEW
Chris Jericho’s future in professional wrestling has become one of the most talked-about stories of early 2026. As of January 1, 2026, the former AEW World Champion is officially a free agent, with his All Elite Wrestling contract expiring at midnight on December 31. While no formal announcement has been made, industry insiders and fan speculation strongly point toward one final WWE return for the legendary performer.
Jericho, now 55, has remained one of wrestling’s most influential figures for over three decades. From his iconic Y2J WWE debut in 1999 to becoming AEW’s first world champion, his career has repeatedly reshaped the industry. Now, with AEW in his rear-view mirror, attention has shifted squarely to how, and when, Chris Jericho might return to WWE.
Chris Jericho Becomes a Free Agent After AEW Exit
Jericho’s free agency was confirmed following the expiration of his AEW deal, ending a run that began in 2019 and helped legitimize the company during its early days. While his importance to AEW cannot be overstated, the last few years saw mixed fan reactions and growing speculation that his time with the promotion was nearing its end.
Comments Jericho made in late 2025 further fueled those rumors. On his Talk Is Jericho podcast, he openly praised TNA Wrestling’s production quality while comparing an episode of AEW Dynamite to a small independent show. Many analysts interpreted those remarks as a sign of creative dissatisfaction and a subtle signal that his AEW chapter was closing.
Why a WWE Return Feels Inevitable
Despite being under AEW contract for years, Jericho maintained a working relationship with WWE. In 2022, he notably appeared on WWE Raw via a pre-recorded video, congratulating John Cena on his 20-year anniversary, a move that quietly kept doors open.
In recent interviews, Jericho has also been deliberately vague but telling. Asked directly about a WWE return, he responded, “You never know,” before later stating, “I’m pretty sure you’ll see me in a wrestling ring in 2026.” For many fans, that was all the confirmation they needed.
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When Could Chris Jericho Appear on WWE TV?
Several key dates have emerged as potential return windows:
WWE Raw – January 5, 2026
The first Raw of 2026, held at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, is already loaded with significance. The show marks the one-year anniversary of Raw on Netflix and features major championship matches. A surprise Jericho appearance would instantly dominate headlines and social media.
Royal Rumble 2026
Another popular theory is a surprise Royal Rumble entry, echoing Jericho’s memorable 2013 return. However, the 2026 event takes place in Saudi Arabia, leading some fans to believe WWE may save his comeback for a North American crowd instead.
Post-Rumble Raw or SmackDown
Some analysts believe WWE may intentionally let anticipation build, reintroducing Jericho through classic countdown vignettes, a nod to his legendary debut. This slow-burn approach would align perfectly with Jericho’s storytelling legacy.
Why WWE Needs to Get Jericho’s Return Right
If Chris Jericho returns to WWE in 2026, it will almost certainly be his final run with the company. That reality places enormous importance on presentation. Fans aren’t just expecting a surprise, they want nostalgia, mystery, and meaning.
Rather than a one-night shock appearance, many believe WWE should revive Jericho’s iconic countdown vignettes, allowing anticipation to grow while younger audiences learn why Y2J became a legend in the first place.
What This Means for Jericho’s Legacy
Jericho doesn’t need championships to validate his career. What he needs is a proper send-off, one that honors his contributions to WWE, WCW, AEW, and the industry as a whole. A carefully crafted WWE return would cement his legacy as one of wrestling’s most adaptable, and enduring, superstars.
FAQ: Chris Jericho WWE Return
Is Chris Jericho officially a free agent?
Yes. Chris Jericho became a free agent on January 1, 2026, after his AEW contract expired.
Is Chris Jericho returning to WWE?
While not officially confirmed, multiple reports strongly suggest Jericho is expected to return to WWE.
When could Chris Jericho return to WWE?
Possible dates include the January 5, 2026 episode of WWE Raw, the Royal Rumble, or a later Raw or SmackDown appearance.
Why did Chris Jericho leave AEW?
Jericho’s contract expired naturally, but comments criticizing AEW’s production fueled speculation about creative dissatisfaction.
How old is Chris Jericho in 2026?
Chris Jericho is 55 years old.
Will this be Chris Jericho’s final WWE run?
Most analysts believe a 2026 WWE return would be Jericho’s last major run before retirement.
Could Jericho appear in TNA instead?
While Jericho praised TNA publicly, WWE remains the most likely destination based on industry expectations.