For fans wondering about Chris Jericho’s prolonged absence from AEW television, a new report suggests it’s less about a creative storyline and all about business.
According to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Jericho’s return to AEW programming is directly contingent on him signing a new deal with the company. The report indicates that AEW President Tony Khan will likely require a new agreement before the inaugural AEW World Champion is brought back into the fold.
This situation places Jericho at a pivotal career crossroads, with WWE being presented as a viable alternative. This leverage allows him to weigh his options, reportedly with a keen eye on how both promotions handle the twilight years of their top legends.
The analysis from Dave Meltzer suggests Jericho could be comparing the celebrated farewell tour AEW crafted for Sting with how WWE has utilized icons like John Cena and Goldberg in recent years. While both companies would likely grant him the schedule flexibility needed for his music and acting careers, the core decision appears to be a philosophical one.
The biggest question now is what Jericho values more at this stage. Does he reaffirm his loyalty to the company he helped build from the ground up, or does a final, strategic run in WWE present a more sensible next chapter for his legendary career?