With Chris Jericho’s AEW contract reportedly expiring at the end of the year, speculation about a potential return to WWE has been rampant. A new report from the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter indicates that the impression within WWE is that Jericho will be coming back to the company for a retirement tour and a Hall of Fame induction.
Signs of a Potential WWE Return
Recent actions from Jericho have fueled the speculation about his future. He recently announced his next cruise for November 2026, and the initial list of guests does not include any talent from AEW. While it was noted that in the past, AEW talent has been added a few months after the initial announcement, the current omission has fueled speculation about Jericho returning to WWE. Adding to the speculation, Jericho previously posted a video of his 2012 return to WWE on his social media.
The View From Within WWE
The fan desire for a Jericho return was evident at the recent Crown Jewel event in Perth, Australia, where the crowd loudly sang his theme song, “Judas”. However, according to sources within WWE, this display did not have an impact on the company’s perspective.
“From those in WWE, they said the Perth crowd made no difference and that they are of the impression it won’t change creative plans and the idea is that Jericho is coming for a retirement tour and Hall of Fame induction,” the report states.
The report also adds that the cruise currently does not have any WWE talent listed either, and it’s unknown if WWE would permit its talent to attend even if Jericho were with the company.
