Chris Jericho WWE Return Rumors Ahead of Royal Rumble
Chris Jericho’s legendary wrestling career might be heading toward another unexpected twist. With his AEW contract reportedly expiring at the end of 2025, speculation is swirling that Jericho could return to WWE, possibly debuting as a surprise entrant in the 2026 Royal Rumble.
The buzz was fueled by Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, where he revealed that both AEW insiders and WWE sources are bracing for the possibility that Jericho won’t re-sign with Tony Khan’s promotion. Instead, the former AEW World Champion might walk back into WWE for one final run.
The Royal Rumble Surprise Factor
Few things in wrestling create as much excitement as a surprise Royal Rumble entrant. Jericho has been part of some of the most memorable Rumble moments in WWE history, and a shock comeback at this stage of his career would electrify fans worldwide.
According to Meltzer, “There are those in AEW who believe he’s not going to be back and will start in WWE as a Royal Rumble surprise.” While nothing is confirmed, WWE reportedly believes Jericho is heading their way.
Why Jericho Might Leave AEW
Jericho has been a cornerstone of AEW since its launch in 2019. He became the company’s first World Champion and helped establish its identity as a true competitor to WWE. But after nearly seven years in the company, change might be exactly what Jericho needs.
Meltzer noted that at 55 years old by the time his contract expires, Jericho’s schedule is less of a concern now than it once was. WWE’s reduced live event workload, compared to past decades, could actually make it easier for Jericho to manage the physical demands of one last run.
“He can be like Punk, who rarely wrestles on television and only for something big,” Meltzer explained. That kind of booking would protect Jericho’s legacy while keeping him special in WWE storylines.
WWE’s Confidence—But Not a Guarantee
WWE has often been “confident” about signing AEW stars, only for plans to change at the last minute. Some talents re-sign with AEW after negotiations, while others choose WWE. Jericho could still stay put, but WWE’s confidence signals that conversations—directly or indirectly—are already happening.
“The only thing we’ve heard from WWE is that they expect him,” Meltzer said, though he reminded readers that confidence doesn’t always equal reality.
Why a WWE Return Makes Sense
Jericho has already cemented his place as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. But there’s a poetic element to finishing where it all began: on WWE’s biggest stage.
- A Royal Rumble surprise return would be instantly viral.
- WWE could leverage Jericho’s name for WrestleMania season.
- Jericho’s star power still resonates with casual fans, something WWE always values.
Freshening Up His Career One Last Time
Jericho has reinvented himself countless times—from Y2J, to “The List,” to “Le Champion,” to “The Ocho.” Each chapter has extended his longevity. But as Meltzer pointed out, switching companies can also breathe new life into a wrestler’s career.
For Jericho, a WWE comeback might be the final reinvention he needs to close out his Hall of Fame legacy.
Final Thoughts
Whether he stays in AEW, returns to WWE, or even explores another path, Chris Jericho remains one of wrestling’s most unpredictable and influential stars. If he does appear in the Royal Rumble, fans will witness not just a surprise, but possibly the last major career twist for a living legend.
Do you think Chris Jericho should finish his career in WWE with one last Royal Rumble surprise? Let us know in the comments below.
