New reports indicate that Chris Jericho may be exploring a return to WWE. According to PWInsider.com, there is a belief among many talents that the AEW original has made overtures to gauge WWE’s interest in him for when his AEW contract expires.
The speculation intensified with a report from WrestleVotes Radio, which noted a sentiment within WWE that a deal is expected to be finalized once Jericho is legally able to negotiate. The report also stated that several current WWE talents would welcome his return, as Jericho has maintained friendly relationships with many in the company despite his six-year tenure with AEW.
Jericho’s current contract with AEW is reportedly set to expire at the end of 2025. This timeline has fueled further rumors, with the Wrestling Observer Newsletter noting that some within AEW believe Jericho will not re-sign and could even appear as a surprise entrant in the 2026 Royal Rumble. The speculation has been amplified by his absence from AEW programming since April and his recent “liking” of a social media post discussing a potential WWE comeback.
Amid the rumors, wrestling veteran Dutch Mantell has offered a different perspective on a potential WWE run for the 54-year-old. Speaking on his “Story Time with Dutch Mantell” podcast, Mantell suggested Jericho’s “better days are behind him” as a full-time competitor and proposed he could be valuable in a non-wrestling role, such as an agent, manager, or an on-screen “mouthpiece.”
On the AEW side, the conversation remains more guarded. AEW commentator Tony Schiavone mentioned on his “What Happened When” podcast that Jericho’s name did not come up during a recent UK trip with AEW President Tony Khan, but he cautioned that Khan keeps major decisions private. When asked directly about Jericho’s status during a media call, Khan praised him as a “great champion, a great ambassador, a great leader and a great friend” for both AEW and Ring of Honor. Khan concluded by stating, “If and when the time presents itself, hopefully, would love to have Chris back,” without confirming or denying any contract negotiations.