Full Breakdown
WWE's Interest in AEW Stars: Powerhouse Hobbs and Chris Jericho
1/10/2026, 7:02:20 AM
WWE's Pursuit of Powerhouse Hobbs
WWE officials are reportedly monitoring the contract status of AEW star Powerhouse Hobbs, who has garnered significant attention for his physical presence and wrestling style. According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there is a strong internal sentiment within WWE regarding Hobbs, viewing him as a potential major acquisition. Hobbs, a member of The Opps alongside Samoa Joe and Katsuyori Shibata, currently holds the AEW World Trios Championship, having maintained the title for over 266 days since winning it in April 2025. His recent performances, including a violent match against “Hangman” Adam Page and Swerve Strickland on January 7, 2026, have further showcased his capabilities, despite the loss.
While the exact expiration date of Hobbs' AEW contract remains unclear, his impressive track record since debuting in 2020 positions him as a top-tier candidate for WWE, where he could quickly establish himself as a significant player in NXT or the main roster.
Chris Jericho's Uncertain Future
Speculation surrounding Chris Jericho's future in professional wrestling has intensified, with many believing he may be on the verge of returning to WWE. Jim Ross, a WWE Hall of Famer and current AEW commentator, expressed his belief that Jericho's options are limited to either WWE or remaining with AEW. Jericho has not appeared on AEW television since April 2025, and his absence has fueled rumors of a potential WWE return, especially with the upcoming Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia on January 31, 2026.
Tony Khan, AEW's president, has acknowledged Jericho's instrumental role in the promotion's success, emphasizing his importance to AEW's history. Despite this, there are indications that Jericho's AEW contract may have expired on December 31, 2025, leading to further speculation about his future.
Criticism & Opposition
While Jericho has been a pivotal figure in AEW, his recent performances have drawn criticism from fans who feel he has prioritized his own storyline over the development of younger talent. This dissatisfaction may have influenced his standing within AEW and could play a role in his decision-making regarding a potential move to WWE.
Official Statements & Responses
Tony Khan has publicly expressed gratitude for Jericho's contributions to AEW, stating, "Chris is always a big part of AEW... We're really proud of what we've been able to accomplish." However, the uncertainty surrounding Jericho's contract status and the lack of recent appearances have left fans and analysts questioning his future.
What's Next
As the wrestling landscape evolves, both Powerhouse Hobbs and Chris Jericho's situations will be closely watched. Hobbs' potential move to WWE could reshape the dynamics within AEW, while Jericho's anticipated return at the Royal Rumble could mark a significant moment in his career. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the paths of these two prominent figures in professional wrestling.
