Chris Jericho, one of professional wrestling’s most enduring icons, has recently stirred the rumor mill regarding his future in the industry, fueling speculation about a possible return to WWE once his All Elite Wrestling (AEW) contract expires at the end of 2025. Amid an extended hiatus from AEW television and various sightings with WWE personalities, Jericho’s career trajectory has become a hot topic among fans and insiders alike.

Jericho’s current AEW deal reportedly runs through December 2025. Though he has been noticeably absent from AEW programming since April 2025, mentoring emerging stars Big Bill and Bryan Keith in his “Learning Tree” stable, his eventual return or departure remains uncertain. In a candid interview with The Daily Mail during Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights in Hollywood, Jericho confirmed his allegiance to AEW for now but did not close the door on WWE.[1][3]

“The best thing that could happen in wrestling is AEW, and the fact that there’s two huge promotions that you can choose from just makes it better for the guys,” Jericho said. “It makes it better for the fans and everybody in between. So I’m not going anywhere for a while. I’m still with AEW for right now. Would I go back to WWE? I wouldn’t be opposed to it; we’ll just have to see what happens. But the best thing that could happen is to have two great teams that you can play for, and that just makes everything bigger and more exciting.”[1][3][4]

This balanced viewpoint from Jericho resonates with the evolving landscape of modern professional wrestling, where competition between major promotions such as AEW and WWE has intensified opportunities not only for performers but for fans and the broader wrestling ecosystem.

Adding to the buzz, Jericho was recently spotted alongside WWE personality Mike Rome at the same Halloween Horror Nights event, an appearance that naturally fueled speculation about his rapport with WWE talent and management. While some AEW insiders reportedly doubt Jericho will renew his contract once it expires, WWE sources have cautiously indicated that talks have not yet formally begun, though interest in luring Jericho back to Stamford remains palpable.[4]

The wrestling community has also been observing Jericho’s subtle social media activity; notably, he liked an Instagram post referencing his AEW contract status and alluding to a WWE return, which intensified chatter in August 2025.[4]

Jericho’s potential WWE comeback is particularly intriguing given his storied history with the company, where he gained legendary status over multiple runs. Rumors suggest that if a deal materializes, he could make a high-profile appearance, with some insiders speculating about a possible slot in the 2026 Royal Rumble event — a fitting stage for a returning veteran of Jericho’s caliber.[4]

For now, Jericho remains a pivotal figure in AEW, and his hiatus has not diminished his influence behind the scenes or his mentorship role to rising stars. However, his openness to future possibilities exemplifies the fluid nature of wrestling contracts and the increasingly dynamic choices top-tier talent have today.

According to Fightful and multiple forums, Jericho’s contract extension signed in late 2022 was initially viewed as solidifying his AEW tenure for the foreseeable future, but his recent comments and appearances hint that plans could evolve depending on how the wrestling terrain shifts in the next year.[2][5]

What Does This Mean for Fans and Wrestling?

Jericho’s status as a free agent in late 2025 would underscore how the wrestling world continues to balance competition between AEW and WWE — both striving to secure top talent while offering contrasting creative environments. Jericho’s pragmatic embrace of this competition, rather than allegiance exclusivity, speaks volumes about the positives of an increasingly diverse wrestling marketplace.

While no official announcements have been made, Jericho’s candidness offers fans a glimpse into the wrestling industry’s behind-the-scenes realities, including contract negotiations and the strategic decisions veteran wrestlers face late in their careers.

As September 2025 continues, fans and industry watchers will keenly observe whether WWE will make a concerted effort to capitalize on Jericho’s free agent status or whether AEW will renew or reshape their relationship with the wrestling legend. Regardless, Jericho’s presence remains a significant factor in both promotions’ storytelling and star power.

Sources close to Jericho have revealed that his decision will likely involve weighing creative freedom, legacy considerations, and the opportunity to shape future generations of wrestlers wherever he ultimately lands.[4]

In any case, Chris Jericho’s journey remains far from predictable, and as the end of 2025 approaches, fans can expect more news and possible surprises from one of the wrestling world’s most influential figures.

This article is based on recent reports, interviews, and insider information from WWE.com, Fightful, The Daily Mail, and eyewitness accounts at WrestleMania 39 events and other wrestling media outlets.