Eric Bischoff weighed in on the circulating rumors regarding Chris Jericho’s potential departure from AEW and a possible return to WWE. During a discussion on 83 Weeks, Bischoff came out with the idea that WWE might strategically support TNA to facilitate major talent transitions or build new audiences. He noted that a “storyline-driven” path back to WWE through TNA could be an effective move for both the company and Jericho.
Bischoff expressed his belief that TNA’s success is a in front of new priority for WWE leadership under the current regime. “I absolutely believe that WWE is going to try to strategically help TNA in any way possible, because it’s in WWE’s best interest if TNA is successful for a lot of reasons, it’s in their best interest.” He added that this could include a “favored nations” position for WWE if there were ever a potential sale of the company.
Regarding Chris Jericho, Bischoff noted that the veteran performer has always been savvy about his career moves. “I’m having fun watching this, because it really is kind of entertaining to see Chris’s moves behind the scenes and his teases, because they’re so subtle and they’re so timely,” Bischoff said. “I think Chris wants to be involved in TNA, maybe just to check the box. He’d like to see the hometown guys win, and if he can contribute in any way he will”.
Bischoff envisioned a scenario where Jericho uses TNA as a platform to create demand for a final “retirement tour” in WWE. “Could there be a story-driven way that lands Chris in that retirement tour that really is probably his goal? So could we get there using TNA as a platform, creating some demand from the audience to see Chris retire in WWE,” he suggested. He likened this potential move to a surprise “Lex Luger type” appearance that could trigger an inter-brand battle.
As of January 2026, Chris Jericho remains absent from AEW television. While no official announcement has been made, speculation continues that he may appear on the January 15 AMC premiere of Thursday Night iMPACT!. As of today, WWE currently has no plans to confirm any roster additions until the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event on January 31 in Riyadh.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit 83 Weeks with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription. You can listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
