The Jericho-WWE Connection: A History of Possibility

Chris Jericho’s relationship with WWE is, of course, deeply rooted in wrestling history. His debut in 1999 as a rebellious anti-hero instantly captivated audiences, and he went on to become a six-time world champion, a multi-time tag team champion, and a Grand Slam champion. His “Walls of Jericho” submission hold became iconic, and his ability to seamlessly blend athleticism with captivating character work cemented his status as a top star.

However, Jericho ultimately chose to explore opportunities outside of WWE, embarking on a highly successful run in New Japan Pro-Wrestling before becoming a foundational pillar of AEW. His contributions to AEW have been immense, helping to establish the promotion as a legitimate competitor to WWE. But the cyclical nature of professional wrestling often sees stars return to familiar territories, and the possibility of Jericho revisiting his WWE past is now very real.

Tony Khan’s Perspective: Navigating Talent and Legacy

Tony Khan’s recent comments regarding John Cena’s WWE career have added another layer to the narrative. While praising Cena’s accomplishments, Khan’s remarks were perceived by some as a subtle nod to the value WWE places on its established stars. Khan has consistently emphasized his commitment to building AEW’s own stars, but the allure of bringing in established names like Jericho – even if only temporarily – is undeniable.

Khan recently stated, “I think we’ll see what happens here in the coming months,” when directly asked about Jericho’s future. This ambiguous statement has only intensified the speculation, leaving fans to interpret his words as they see fit. Is Khan preparing for Jericho’s potential departure, or is he simply keeping his options open?

Did You Know? Chris Jericho holds the record for the most combined reigns as world champion across WWE, WCW, and AEW.

Creative Shifts and the Impact on AEW’s World Title Picture

Beyond Jericho’s individual situation, recent changes in WWE’s world title creative direction have also fueled the speculation. Reports suggest a renewed focus on established stars and a potential shift away from newer talent. This could create an opening for a veteran like Jericho to make a significant impact upon his return.

What does this mean for AEW? The loss of a performer like Jericho would undoubtedly be felt, but it could also create opportunities for other stars to step up and fill the void. AEW has a deep roster of talented wrestlers, and Khan has consistently demonstrated his ability to adapt and innovate.

Do you think AEW can thrive even if Jericho departs? And what kind of role would Jericho realistically play if he were to return to WWE?

Frequently Asked Questions