By Ja’ Von York

For weeks, the professional wrestling world has been consumed by one question: where does Chris Jericho go next? With Monday Night RAW approaching, Royal Rumble season underway, and AEW remaining conspicuously quiet, speculation surrounding the future of one of wrestling’s most influential figures has reached a fever pitch.

Jericho’s name has been tied to WWE teases, AEW contract uncertainty, and even outside possibilities, but separating reality from rumor has become increasingly difficult. What is clear, however, is that Jericho now finds himself at a pivotal crossroads—one that could impact WWE programming, AEW’s veteran identity, and the broader industry landscape in 2026.

Where Things Actually Stand Right Now

As of early January 2026, Chris Jericho has not appeared on WWE television, despite rampant speculation linking him to recent episodes of RAW and WWE’s expanded Netflix presence. Fan chants and online buzz suggested a return was imminent, yet no appearance materialized.

According to multiple reports from Fightful and Wrestling Observer, the root of the speculation stems from Jericho’s AEW contract status, which is widely believed to have expired at the end of 2025, though neither Jericho nor AEW has issued an official confirmation. This ambiguity has fueled industry-wide discussion rather than clarity.

Adding to the uncertainty, Jericho’s name has remained on AEW’s official roster page—something that has previously lingered even after contracts expired. Fightful has cautioned readers against assuming this alone confirms an active deal, emphasizing that AEW’s public listings are not always updated immediately.

In short: Jericho may be a free agent, but no promotion has publicly claimed him.

Why WWE Continues to Loom Large

Despite the lack of confirmation, WWE remains the promotion most consistently linked to Jericho—and not without reason.

Recent RAW dialogue from on-screen authority figures included phrasing long associated with Jericho’s legacy, prompting fans to interpret the lines as intentional teases. While WWE has a long history of using nostalgia-driven language, insiders caution that such references do not always equate to finalized creative plans.

Fightful Select has reported that WWE creative had not formally penciled Jericho into early 2026 storylines as of late December, suggesting that any appearance would likely be a late call rather than a long-telegraphed return. This aligns with WWE’s modern strategy of favoring surprise moments—particularly during Royal Rumble season.

With RAW now positioned as a major Netflix property, the idea of deploying Jericho as a short-term ratings and buzz catalyst makes strategic sense, even if the company avoids committing to a lengthy run.

AEW’s Silence Speaks Volumes

Tony Khan has publicly praised Jericho and previously stated he would welcome the idea of Jericho ending his career in AEW. However, there has been no creative direction announced, no farewell angle teased, and no indication that AEW is actively planning a return storyline.

This restrained approach contrasts sharply with AEW’s handling of other veteran talents and suggests that the company may be comfortable letting Jericho explore his options without resistance. Industry observers have noted that AEW’s roster depth and emphasis on younger stars may have made Jericho’s role less essential than it once was.

Jericho’s Own Words — Carefully Chosen

Jericho himself has added fuel to the discussion without providing definitive answers. In multiple interviews late in 2025, he confirmed that he is not retired and intends to wrestle in 2026, but stopped short of naming a promotion.

Notably, Jericho has acknowledged that a WWE return is not off the table under the right circumstances. Given his long-standing relationship with WWE management and his ability to negotiate creative terms, such a move would not be unprecedented—even after years as one of AEW’s foundational figures.

The Most Likely Scenarios Moving Forward

Based on credible reporting from Fightful, Wrestling Observer, and Sports Illustrated, four realistic outcomes remain on the table:

• A surprise WWE appearance, potentially tied to the Royal Rumble or a major RAW
• A quiet AEW re-signing, though currently unsupported by creative signals
• A short-term outside run, possibly to elevate another promotion’s visibility
• A WWE legacy arc, including Hall of Fame positioning and selective matches

Of these, a WWE return—whether brief or ceremonial—appears increasingly plausible, especially given AEW’s lack of visible plans and WWE’s appetite for moment-driven programming.

What This Means for Monday Night RAW

Even if Jericho does not appear on tonight’s episode, the speculation itself has already served WWE’s interests. His name trends. His music cues crowd anticipation. His potential presence creates conversation before the bell even rings.

In modern wrestling, buzz is currency—and Chris Jericho continues to generate it without stepping foot in the ring.

Final Verdict

As of now, there is no confirmed deal, no official announcement, and no guaranteed appearance. What does exist is a rare convergence of opportunity, timing, and legacy. Jericho no longer needs weekly television to remain relevant; his next move will be defined by impact, not volume.

Whether that impact comes on RAW, at the Royal Rumble, or later in 2026, one thing remains certain:

Chris Jericho’s next chapter will matter—and the industry is watching closely.

Make sure to subscribe to our Late Night Crew Wrestling YouTube Channel. Follow @yorkjavon, @kspowerwheels & @LateNightCrewYT on X.