The question of Chris Jericho’s wrestling future continues to intensify, with a new report from Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter confirming that WWE has offered the veteran star a specific retirement storyline. Jericho is currently on his longest absence from AEW television, and speculation regarding his next move has been fueled by a recent photo showing a significant physical transformation.
WWE’s Interest and The Financial Offer
Meltzer noted that while nothing is confirmed, all hints are currently pointing toward a WWE direction for the star. The offer of a retirement storyline from the company suggests a long-term plan is in place should he return.
“With Chris Jericho he said that he hoped Jericho would be back but didn’t say it would happen. As noted many times, this one is a Jericho decision and all hints are in the WWE direction. I know that WWE has offered him a retirement storyline and those in WWE have said that’s what they’d be interested in. Others expect him to be there early next year but nothing is confirmed.”
Financial figures surrounding a potential WWE return are also rumored to be staggering. A WWE source previously indicated to Fightful Select that Jericho would “almost certainly get offered ‘several million dollars’ annually” for a return. The source noted their belief that AEW is capable of matching the offer, but the decision ultimately rests with Jericho’s personal and professional motivations at this stage of his career.
AEW Contract Status and Current Absence
The speculation is largely driven by the approaching end of Jericho’s current AEW contract. A report from Fightful Select notes that Jericho’s deal is scheduled to conclude at the end of 2025, unless an extension is signed or the contract is frozen. Jericho has not been seen on AEW television since April 2025, marking his longest absence from the promotion since its inception.
Despite the rumors, AEW President Tony Khan publicly addressed the star’s status, attempting to quell speculation about any underlying issues. Tony Khan provided his positive perspective on Jericho’s status with the company:
“I love Chris Jericho. He’s a huge part of AEW, and Chris is always a welcome, big part of AEW we’d always want to have here.”
The report noted that while Jericho’s creative is typically discussed directly with Khan, he has not been brought up in recent creative discussions within AEW. However, the report did affirm that the relationship between Khan and Jericho remains “still strong,” providing competing signals about his long-term future.
The Decision Point
Jericho’s free agency will be highly sought-after, with Meltzer confirming that multiple companies are interested in securing his services. Even without direct communication from Jericho’s camp, a WWE staff member noted that the positive audience reaction to his mentions on WWE programming were a “good sign for his interest”.
