On October 2, 2025, Chris Jericho celebrated a monumental milestone—35 years since his very first professional wrestling match. Reflecting on his journey from a small venue in Ponoka, Alberta, to becoming one of the most influential figures in wrestling history, Jericho emphatically declared that his career is far from finished. The veteran superstar’s heartfelt message sent ripples through the wrestling world and reignited speculation about his future, both inside and potentially outside AEW.
A Humble Beginning in Ponoka, Alberta
Chris Jericho’s in-ring debut took place on October 2, 1990, wrestling against Lance Storm at the Ponoka Moose Hall before roughly 85 fans. The match famously ended in a ten-minute draw, and Jericho still vividly recalls the moment and the nearly symbolic $30 paycheck he earned—two tens and a twenty. This unassuming start marked the beginning of what would become an unparalleled and transformative career spanning multiple decades, promotions, and continents[1][2].
In his reflective social media post, Jericho reminisced about every detail of that first match, saying, “I remember every little thing as if it happened only yesterday!” He expressed gratitude towards fans worldwide who have supported him “for certain parts or even all of it” and closed with a powerful statement: “It ain’t over yet”[1].
The Evolution of a Wrestling Icon
Since that debut, Chris Jericho evolved from a promising rookie into a global superstar renowned for his versatility, charisma, and groundbreaking gimmicks. Early in his career, he rose through the ranks of WCW and WWE before becoming the inaugural AEW World Champion, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in modern wrestling.
Jericho’s body of work features:
- Multiple world titles across WWE and AEW
- Iconic personas such as “Y2J” and “The Painmaker”
- Groundbreaking matches with legends and new stars alike
- Role as a mentor and leader in AEW’s locker room
Despite a period of absence from AEW television after his storyline exit in April 2025, Jericho remains under contract through December 2025, fueling speculation about his eventual next step[1][2].
Future Prospects and Speculation
The wrestling world is abuzz over what comes next for Jericho. As his AEW contract nears expiration, rumors have circulated about a potential return to WWE—most notably a speculated surprise comeback at the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia. Reports suggest Jericho has already reached out to WWE to explore options, with multiple insiders indicating WWE executives would welcome him back enthusiastically[2].
According to a WWE insider, “Chris brings a blend of experience and star power that WWE would love to leverage, especially given his undeniable connection with fans across generations. A return at a major event like the Royal Rumble would send shockwaves through the business”[2].
Nevertheless, Jericho’s recent comments clearly reinforce his intention to continue wrestling on a high level. His “It ain’t over yet” mantra reflects not just a personal vow but a message to fans that he remains passionate and ready for new challenges, regardless of the promotion[1][4].
AEW’s Take on Jericho’s Future
Despite Jericho stepping away from AEW television, AEW President Tony Khan has publicly expressed a desire to have him return. Khan has called Jericho “a cornerstone of this company” and expressed hope that the veteran will “hopefully be back soon.” This indicates a willingness from AEW to continue utilizing Jericho’s star power if their paths align moving forward[2].
Jericho’s Enduring Impact
Chris Jericho’s career remains a blueprint for longevity and reinvention in professional wrestling. Few have sustained relevance over three and a half decades while constantly adapting their character and in-ring style to changing audiences.
His journey—from a small Canadian hall to global stardom—serves as an inspiration for wrestlers worldwide and underscores the importance of passion, innovation, and connection with fans.
Final Thoughts
As Chris Jericho celebrates 35 years in the squared circle, his message is clear: there is much more wrestling left to do. Whether he continues with AEW, returns to WWE, or embarks on entirely new endeavors, Jericho’s commitment to excellence and entertainment promises to keep his remarkable legacy alive.
Fans and insiders alike are watching closely as the final months of 2025 unfold, anticipating the next chapter in the story of one of wrestling’s true icons. As Jericho himself proclaimed, the journey is far from over — it’s just getting started.
“He’s one of those rare talents that transcends companies and eras,” a source close to Jericho told us. “Chris isn’t done; he’s got more stories to tell, rivalries to settle, and moments to create. Wherever he goes next, the wrestling world will be watching.”