Chris Jericho Makes Shock Return to AEW, Dashing WWE Comeback Hopes
After months of intense speculation, wrestling legend Chris Jericho has officially returned to All Elite Wrestling, marking his first appearance on AEW Dynamite since April 2025. The 55-year-old star made his comeback in front of a hometown crowd in Winnipeg, where he described Tony Khan's company as 'home,' effectively ending rumors of a potential shock return to WWE.
WWE Fans Express Relief Over Jericho's AEW Stay
While Jericho's return was met with cheers from the live audience, many WWE fans have voiced relief that he did not rejoin the promotion. On social media platform X, fans shared sentiments suggesting WWE 'dodged a bullet,' with one user noting that a 2026 Jericho run would not have benefited the company. Others expressed disinterest in seeing him back in WWE, with comments ranging from 'Keep his a** in Jacksonville' to emphatic rejections of his potential inclusion in what they termed their 'precious federation.'
Earlier reports had linked Jericho to a WWE comeback, including potential appearances at the 2026 Royal Rumble and the first Monday Night Raw of the year on Netflix, but these never materialized. According to Fightful Select, there were 'absolutely' talks between Jericho and WWE in recent months, but no creative plans were set for him, and he was never scheduled for key events like the Royal Rumble or Elimination Chamber.
Future Plans and Retirement Speculation in AEW
With Jericho back in AEW, attention has shifted to his future career trajectory. Some fans had anticipated a Hall of Fame induction and WrestleMania retirement run in WWE, but now many hope he receives a similar sendoff in AEW, possibly through a retirement tour. Comparisons have been drawn to Sting's acclaimed retirement run, with supporters believing Jericho could achieve something comparable in AEW.
Despite debates over whether Jericho is 'needed' in AEW, some argue he can still contribute as an 'upper mid-card legacy babyface,' leveraging his name value to help build younger talent. Jericho himself has hinted at nearing the end of his career, stating in a recent interview that he has 'some career left to go' but is uncertain if it will last one, two, or four more years. He expressed concerns about the long-term health of current wrestlers, noting that serious injuries can drastically alter careers.
Implications for WWE and AEW's Roster Dynamics
Jericho's decision to remain in AEW has broader implications for both promotions. In WWE, he might have been used in a short-term role to enhance rising stars like GUNTHER, but the company's current focus appears to be on youth, as evidenced by WrestleMania cards featuring younger talents such as Oba Femi and Trick Williams. While WWE has lost veteran presence with AJ Styles' retirement, figures like Randy Orton and Rey Mysterio continue to mentor new talent.
For AEW, Jericho's return adds experience and star power, though it will require effort to rebuild goodwill if he is to be a regularly featured performer. His recent trademark of 'Cornerstone' suggests potential new creative directions, and backstage chatter in AEW indicates ongoing discussions about his role. Although a future WWE Hall of Fame induction remains possible, Jericho seems poised for an AEW-centric retirement run, aligning with his statement that the company feels like home.
As the wrestling world evolves rapidly, Jericho's career moves will be closely watched, with fans and analysts alike speculating on how long he will remain active and what legacy he will leave in AEW.
