The Monday Night RAW episode on January 5, 2026, generated more than a few eyebrows among wrestling fans. A cryptic mention of Chris Jericho had many speculating about a potential return or a major storyline twist. However, it appears that the Lehigh Valley legend was nowhere to be found, and according to sources close to the situation, Jericho was indeed absent from the event, but for reasons that have nothing to do with a wrestling angle.
WWE’s Tactful Tease
The mysterious mention of Jericho on RAW seemed almost deliberately cryptic, as if planting seeds for a potential surprise. Jericho, one of the most beloved and respected wrestlers in WWE history, has an undeniable knack for getting under the skin of fans, and it’s not hard to imagine the company wanting to tease a return.
According to a WWE insider, the decision to bring up Jericho’s name on the show was, in fact, a calculated attempt to reignite the fire of speculation. “We knew that bringing up Chris’ name would get fans talking, and that’s exactly what we wanted,” the source revealed. “It’s always about creating buzz and keeping the narrative moving forward, even if we’re not ready to make a statement just yet.”
Behind the Scenes
Behind the scenes, Jericho was actually in the midst of taking some much-needed time off to recharge and reflect on his incredible career. Sources close to Jericho have confirmed that the 51-year-old legend is currently taking a temporary break from the industry, giving himself the space to explore other creative outlets and simply enjoy some downtime with loved ones.
“Chris has been pushing himself incredibly hard for years, and we’re not talking just about his in-ring endeavors,” a close friend of Jericho’s revealed. “He’s been writing, directing, and acting, always striving to stay creative and engaged. Sometimes, you just need a breather to clear your head and remember why you started doing this in the first place. It’s not a goodbye; it’s just a temporary pause.”
What’s Next for Jericho?
While Jericho may not be making any immediate appearances in WWE, his name is bound to be on everyone’s lips for the foreseeable future. WWE, always keen to capitalize on its most beloved personalities, is reportedly working on something big for the future. Insider sources suggest that Jericho might be involved in a major storyline or project, potentially even a documentary series exploring his incredible career.
“Chris is always open to new ideas and collaborations,” a source with knowledge of Jericho’s plans revealed. “The door is not closed on a potential return, but we’re thinking outside the box this time around. We’re talking about something that would allow Chris to share his story, his passion, and his legacy with fans worldwide.”
Conclusion
The mystery surrounding Chris Jericho’s whereabouts during the January 5, 2026, episode of RAW has ultimately been solved, but the intrigue surrounding the wrestling world’s favorite son is far from over. As Jericho takes his well-deserved break, fans can rest assured that the legend will be back, bigger and better than ever.
WWE, meanwhile, is already looking to the future, exploring new ways to engage fans and rekindle the magic of Jericho’s unforgettable in-ring performances. For now, the wait continues, but one thing is certain – Chris Jericho will always be a cherished part of the WWE family, and his return will be one for the ages.