Chris Jericho has intensified speculation about a possible WWE return after liking an Instagram post that discussed his AEW contract status and hinted at a comeback to WWE. This move comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding Jericho’s future with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where his contract is officially set to expire at the end of 2025[1][2].

Jericho, one of the most decorated wrestlers in sports entertainment history, has not appeared on AEW television since April 2025. His last storyline saw him walking out on his Learning Tree stablemates, Big Bill and Bryan Keith, signaling a potential break or exit from the promotion. Fans have been left wondering if Jericho has already wrestled his final AEW match. Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer has reported that Jericho has completed his touring duties with his band Fozzy, which leaves the decision about his AEW return largely to AEW President Tony Khan[1].

Jericho’s liking of the Instagram post revealed that he remains open to returning to WWE “depending on the situation.” This aligns with Jericho’s past comments in various interviews where he indicated that while he never ruled out a return to WWE, it would depend heavily on timing and circumstances[2][4]. Originally a WWE mainstay for nearly two decades and a former World Heavyweight Champion, Jericho shifted to AEW in 2019 as part of the company’s early expansion and was the inaugural AEW World Champion. His presence was considered pivotal in establishing AEW as a legitimate competitor to WWE.

Despite his current AEW absence, Jericho has neither publicly expressed dissatisfaction within AEW nor confirmed plans to renew his contract, which historically AEW has kept quiet about up to and after contracts expire. It is not uncommon for AEW to withhold talent from television as contracts near their end, further fuelling rumors[1][5]. This pattern mirrors similar practices seen in WWE and other wrestling companies, where contract status influences on-screen usage.

Sources close to WWE indicate that Jericho’s name is being discussed internally as a potential marquee signing if he chooses to return. A WWE insider told Fightful that “Chris Jericho’s legendary status makes him a valuable asset, and WWE would welcome him back with open arms, especially if he wants to cap his career in the company that built him.” However, no official talks have been publicly confirmed by either side[2].

Jericho’s career longevity and adaptability have earned him admiration across different wrestling eras and promotions. EC3, a veteran wrestler, recently praised Jericho’s ability to remain relevant and connected to fans throughout his career in a Sportskeeda podcast, highlighting that Jericho “would always be over no matter where he wrestled”[3].

If Jericho does return to WWE, it is expected he would take on a limited in-ring role, focusing perhaps on special events, mentorship, or backstage creative influence. Jericho himself has hinted at enjoying varied roles beyond wrestling matches, including commentary, hosting, and music. His diverse talents make him a unique figure in wrestling entertainment[4].

At present, Jericho’s silence and ongoing hiatus from AEW television have only deepened the mystery. Fans and insiders alike are watching closely as the end of 2025 approaches, the point at which his AEW contract officially concludes. Whether he chooses to renew with AEW, retire, or embrace a new chapter with WWE, Chris Jericho’s next move is shaping up to be one of the biggest stories in professional wrestling for the year[1][5].

Backstage sources reveal: “Chris is considering all his options very carefully. He’s grateful for his time in AEW but also recognizes the incredible platform WWE would provide if everything lines up. It’s really about the right timing and the right storylines that excite him.” With that in mind, fans might see Y2J lace up his boots once more inside a WWE ring.

As the wrestling world awaits official announcements, Jericho’s subtle social media cues and his status as one of the greatest performers make this a developing story to watch through the remainder of 2025.

— Written by [Your Name], WWE News Correspondent