Chris Jericho is a Free Agent & WWE Feels Like the Inevitable Next Chapter
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Chris Jericho is officially a free agent, and all signs point toward a return to WWE after spending nearly six years with AEW. It would be a massive get for WWE and an equally significant loss for AEW. More importantly, Jericho heading back to WWE opens an entirely new world of opportunities at this stage of his career.
Before looking ahead, it is important to acknowledge Jericho’s AEW run, which can largely be considered a success for all parties involved. Jericho was the right choice as AEW’s first World Champion. It helped lead the company through its early months on television and setting the tone for its pay-per-view identity. His presence immediately gave AEW credibility and helped establish it as a serious promotion built for longevity.
While Jericho’s departure from AEW may feel bittersweet for fans, the timing makes sense. He had largely done everything there was to do within the company, and fresh storylines were becoming harder to find. A new environment feels necessary, and now appears to be the right moment for that jump.
A Different WWE Awaits Jericho
As mentioned, all paths point toward Jericho returning to WWE. His last appearance in a WWE ring came during the Greatest Royal Rumble in 2019. Since then, the company has changed significantly. WWE now operates under TKO ownership, with a revamped creative direction led by Paul Levesque. While Jericho and Levesque have had a rocky relationship in the past, business has a way of smoothing over old tensions, especially when there is money to be made.
With Jericho back in WWE, the potential for new stories and compelling rivalries immediately stands out. This is something that felt increasingly absent during his final stretch in AEW. That said, WWE is also known for revisiting old ideas, so the return of The List or other familiar gimmicks cannot be ruled out entirely. A surprise appearance in the Royal Rumble feels like the most likely scenario for his return.
There is still a small chance Jericho remains with AEW in a backstage or advisory role, similar to Bryan Danielson’s position within the company. However, Jericho has previously stated he is not interested in transitioning into those kinds of roles. Whether with AEW or elsewhere, making an in-ring WWE return seems like the most compelling and likely next chapter.
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