Shock Wrestling Rumor: Chris Jericho Expected to Return to WWE as AEW Contract Expires December 31, 2025
In a potential blockbuster move shaking the wrestling world, Chris Jericho is reportedly set to leave AEW and return to WWE once his current contract expires at midnight on December 31, 2025. Multiple sources indicate the 55-year-old legend, absent from AEW TV since April, could debut as early as the January 5 Raw on Netflix anniversary show, marking a dramatic homecoming to the company where he made his iconic 1999 debut.
The speculation intensified over the weekend, with Wrestling Intel’s Alex McCarthy reporting Jericho’s AEW deal ends New Year’s Eve, and he’s expected to sign with WWE soon after. The Takedown on SI corroborated that several AEW executives believe Jericho is done with the company. During a December 27 YouTube livestream—airing opposite AEW Worlds End—Jericho teased a fan’s hope for his WWE return with a cryptic “You never know. You never know.”
Jericho, who shocked the industry by joining AEW in 2019 and becoming its inaugural world champion, extended his deal in 2022 through December 2025. He’s been off-screen since losing the ROH title, and recent reports note his name hasn’t surfaced in AEW creative discussions. WWE has reportedly pitched a retirement storyline, aligning with Jericho’s veteran status and desire for one final high-profile run.
Industry observers like Dave Meltzer note widespread belief in Jericho’s WWE return, possibly at the Royal Rumble or sooner. Fans are buzzing about potential matchups with stars like John Cena or a nostalgic Y2J revival. Jericho’s band Fozzy tours and other ventures have kept him busy, but his social media throwbacks to WWE eras have fueled the fire.
For U.S. wrestling enthusiasts, a Chris Jericho WWE return could ignite viewership on Raw’s Netflix era, drawing lapsed fans and boosting ratings amid competition from AEW. At 55, his experience could mentor younger talent while delivering dream matches, impacting storylines and merchandise sales in a booming WWE landscape.
As the clock ticks toward 2026, this Chris Jericho AEW contract expiration and rumored WWE switch stands as one of the hottest stories in pro wrestling. With no official confirmation yet, the anticipation builds for what could be a legendary comeback.
By Mark Smith
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