Chris Jericho remains with All Elite Wrestling after his contract was extended, despite rumors of a WWE return. The extension stems from Jericho taking time off in 2025, during which he was absent from AEW programming. Wrestling insiders confirm this is a standard practice in the industry.
Chris Jericho, the inaugural AEW World Champion, has not appeared on AEW television since April 2025, following the post-Dynasty edition of Dynamite. During his absence, Jericho has focused on other activities, including performances with his band Fozzy. Rumors persisted throughout early 2026 that he might return to WWE, with speculation linking him to events like Raw's one-year Netflix anniversary, the Royal Rumble in late January, or a 'mystery crate' reveal that instead featured Danhausen's debut.
Jericho's original contract was believed to expire at the end of 2025, fueling predictions of a WWE comeback as early as the year's start. However, reports indicate the deal has been extended. On Fightful Select's SRS Q&A, Sean Ross Sapp explained that wrestlers' contracts vary, and Jericho's extension accounts for his 2025 time off. Dave Meltzer, on Wrestling Observer Radio, elaborated on the mechanism: AEW can freeze a contract during a performer's absence and add that time back on, a standard clause in wrestling agreements. Meltzer stated, “I would be 95% sure that that’s true. I mean, I’ve heard things along those lines. And the fact that nobody has said that it’s not true… usually when something like that’s not true, somebody will say it. And nobody has. The whole idea of freezing a contract… if you’re out for a period of time, they can add that time back on. That’s standard in wrestling contracts.” No one in AEW has disputed the extension.
Earlier reports suggested AEW President Tony Khan indicated Jericho was unlikely to extend his stay, but recent insider accounts point to the opposite. Jericho has remained vague about his future, promising a return to the ring by the end of 2026. Fans continue to speculate about potential appearances, including at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. As of now, Jericho is listed on the official AEW roster, with his next steps unclear.
