Full Breakdown
Chris Jericho's Future: WWE Retirement Storyline Offer Amid AEW Contract Expiration
11/30/2025, 12:22:25 AM
Current Contract Status and WWE's Interest
Chris Jericho's contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is set to expire at the end of 2025, prompting speculation about his future in professional wrestling. Reports from The Wrestling Observer Newsletter indicate that World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has made a significant move by offering Jericho a retirement storyline should he choose to return to the company. Wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer emphasized that while nothing is confirmed, all indications suggest Jericho may be leaning toward WWE. Meltzer stated, “This one is a Jericho decision, and all hints are in the WWE direction.”
AEW's Position and Tony Khan's Statements
In light of these developments, AEW President Tony Khan has publicly expressed his desire for Jericho to finish his wrestling career in AEW. Khan remarked, “I would love it if Chris’s final matches—whenever Chris someday would want to hang it up—were in AEW.” Despite Jericho's current absence from AEW television since April 2025, Khan reassured fans that Jericho remains a valued member of the AEW roster, stating, “I love Chris Jericho. He’s a huge part of AEW, and Chris is always a welcome, big part of AEW we’d always want to have here.”
Financial Considerations and Future Speculation
The financial implications of Jericho's potential return to WWE are noteworthy, with sources indicating that he could be offered “several million dollars” annually. While AEW is believed to have the capacity to match this offer, the ultimate decision will depend on Jericho's personal and professional motivations at this stage of his career. The ongoing speculation surrounding Jericho's future has intensified due to his notable physical transformation, which has fueled discussions about his next move.
Criticism & Opposition
While many fans and insiders speculate about Jericho's potential return to WWE, there are contrasting opinions regarding the implications of such a move. Some fans express a strong desire for Jericho to conclude his career in AEW, where he has made a significant impact since the promotion's inception. This sentiment is echoed by AEW's leadership, who view Jericho as an integral part of their brand.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Despite the buzz surrounding Jericho's future, there remains uncertainty about his decision-making process. Reports indicate that multiple wrestling companies are interested in securing Jericho's services, yet there has been no direct communication from Jericho's camp regarding his intentions. This lack of clarity leaves fans and industry insiders alike awaiting a definitive announcement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This one is a Jericho decision, and all hints are in the WWE direction.” — Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Journalist
- “I would love it if Chris’s final matches—whenever Chris someday would want to hang it up—were in AEW.” — Tony Khan, AEW President
As the end of Jericho's AEW contract approaches, the wrestling community remains eager to see how this situation unfolds and whether Jericho will choose to embrace a retirement storyline in WWE or conclude his storied career in AEW.
