Initial expectations at the start of January heavily suggested Chris Jericho's departure from AEW and a return to WWE. This speculation was fueled by apparent hints from figures like Adam Pearce regarding Jericho's involvement in early 2026 WWE events. However, as February progresses, Jericho remains absent from WWE broadcasts, a situation that has surprised many fans within the wrestling community.
Conversely, WWE itself seems unfazed by this turn of events. Reports indicate that WWE had not integrated Jericho into their 2026 plans, including key events like the January 5th "Raw" and the recent Royal Rumble. While WWE officials have expressed interest in Jericho becoming available, they currently believe he is still under contract with AEW, as evidenced by his continued presence on the promotion's roster page. The ambiguity surrounding his AEW contract, particularly whether it includes any extensions or 'freezes,' further complicates his potential move.
Reviewing Jericho's recent activities reveals consistent engagement with AEW until a break in April 2025, suggesting this eight-month hiatus might be the only period his contract could have been paused. Despite the lack of confirmed discussions about a contract extension between Jericho and AEW, the promotion's owner, Tony Khan, has consistently spoken positively about Jericho in various public forums, leaving the door open for future developments in his career.
The intricate world of professional wrestling contracts often remains opaque to the public, making speculation about talent movements a constant feature of the industry. Chris Jericho's current situation underscores the dynamic nature of these agreements, where unexpected twists can redefine careers and shift loyalties. Ultimately, the future of prominent figures like Jericho is shaped not only by contractual obligations but also by strategic decisions and evolving relationships within the competitive landscape of wrestling entertainment.