Chris Jericho’s status with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) remains uncertain as his contract is set to expire by the end of 2025, sparking widespread speculation about his future in professional wrestling. Since April 2025, Jericho has been absent from AEW programming, fueling rumors about his creative direction and potential moves to rival promotions, including WWE. Industry insiders hint at a complex negotiation landscape behind the scenes involving multiple offers and strategic positioning.
Jericho’s AEW Absence and Contract Status
Jericho signed a three-year AEW contract extension in October 2022, scheduled to conclude between November and December 2025. His surprise absence from AEW television since this past April has prompted rampant speculation among fans and insiders alike. Speculative narratives range from creative burnout to a possible pivot toward new career chapters.
Despite his absence, Jericho’s relationship with AEW remains reportedly solid. Sources indicate he regularly liaises with AEW CEO Tony Khan about creative ideas when involved. However, recent reports confirm no immediate plans to reintegrate Jericho on AEW shows or in creative roles as of late 2025[1].
Talks with WWE and Other Promotions
Insiders reveal Jericho has engaged in exploratory conversations with WWE about a possible return once his AEW contract expires. According to Fightful Select reporter Sean Ross Sapp, while no formal deal or detailed creative plans have materialized publicly, WWE higher-ups have expressed genuine interest in bringing Jericho back into the fold[1][2].
A WWE source told TPWW that Jericho would almost certainly receive a lucrative offer “worth several million dollars” per year if he returns, underscoring WWE’s eagerness to secure the veteran star. However, this source also conveyed uncertainty about Jericho’s personal motivations and whether he favors long-term tenure or more flexible arrangements[1].
It’s noteworthy that Jericho’s recently announced talent lineup for his upcoming 2026 Chris Jericho’s Rock N Wrestling Ranger At Sea cruise notably excludes AEW talent and WWE names. This absence further fuels theories that Jericho may be positioning himself independently, signaling potential interest from other national and global wrestling promotions beyond AEW and WWE.
Behind the Scenes: Strategic Career Moves and Industry Insights
Veteran wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer recently speculated that Jericho’s situation might be a strategic maneuver to elevate his market value. Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter suggested Jericho either genuinely contemplates a WWE comeback or is deliberately cultivating that narrative to strengthen his bargaining power with AEW or other promoters.
Meltzer also highlighted that WWE reportedly has long-term plans for Jericho, envisioning a retirement tour culminating in his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. However, WWE would likely restrict Jericho from prominently featuring their current roster on his independent cruise events due to corporate policies[2].
Meanwhile, insiders close to AEW emphasize that Jericho’s absence does not equate to an imminent departure. AEW’s commitment to Jericho remains firm, and they could match lucrative offers if Jericho chooses to stay, reflecting his value as a cornerstone talent[1].
What Jericho’s Future Could Hold
Renewed AEW Deal: AEW may offer Jericho an enhanced contract and reintegrate him creatively, particularly given his high-profile history and drawing power within the company.
WWE Return: WWE could facilitate a high-profile comeback with an eye toward a Hall of Fame retirement run, leveraging Jericho’s legacy and multifaceted talents.
Independent Ventures: Jericho’s cruise event without current AEW or WWE stars suggests an ambition to expand wrestling-centric entertainment beyond traditional promotion frameworks.
Other Promotions: Global and national companies eye Jericho’s availability, potentially offering opportunities in Mexico, Japan, or even new American circuits.
Backstage Perspectives
According to a well-placed WWE insider, “Chris Jericho remains one of the most valuable assets in wrestling. We would be willing to offer him a deal that reflects his legacy and star power, but it ultimately boils down to his vision for the remainder of his career.”
An AEW source added, “Tony Khan respects Jericho deeply, and while we wish to see him on AEW TV again, we appreciate that Jericho’s career path might evolve. The door is always open here, and any future discussions will be handled with care.”
Conclusion
Chris Jericho’s professional path at the close of 2025 is anything but clear-cut. His ongoing absence from AEW, combined with active interest from WWE and other wrestling entities, places his career at a pivotal crossroads. Whether Jericho chooses to reinvent himself within AEW, return to WWE with a retirement storyline, or forge a unique independent route, fans can expect his next chapter to be notable and carefully strategized. Industry watchers and insiders will undoubtedly monitor developments closely as Jericho’s contract expiration approaches.