Full Breakdown
Chris Jericho's WWE Return Rumors Addressed Amid Scheduling Conflicts
1/22/2026, 7:33:56 AM
Current Status of Chris Jericho's WWE Return
Chris Jericho, a prominent figure in professional wrestling, is not expected to make a surprise return to WWE during their upcoming events in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Despite speculation fueled by his Canadian roots and absence from AEW television, Jericho is scheduled to perform at the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) gathering in Anaheim, California, on January 23. This performance is part of JAMM Night, a free concert, and he is expected to remain in the Los Angeles area throughout the weekend, effectively ruling out any appearance at WWE's SmackDown or Saturday Night's Main Event.
Background on Jericho's Recent Activities
Jericho's last on-screen appearance was early last year, and rumors about his potential departure from AEW have circulated since his contract expired on December 31, 2025. While some within WWE have expressed interest in bringing Jericho back, his current commitments to music with his band Fozzy complicate the situation. Jericho's schedule appears to open up after May, which could align with future WWE events, including the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and WrestleMania.
Official Statements & Responses
Tony Khan, President of AEW, addressed the rumors surrounding Jericho's status, emphasizing his importance to the promotion and asserting that Jericho has not parted ways with AEW. Khan stated, "AEW simply wouldn’t exist in its current form without Chris Jericho," highlighting the veteran's foundational role in the company.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding potential returns, some industry insiders caution against getting hopes up for Jericho's immediate return to WWE. Reports from Mike Johnson of PWInsider indicate that Jericho's commitments at NAMM make it unlikely for him to appear at the Montreal events. This sentiment is echoed by various wrestling commentators who suggest that while a return is possible, it may not happen this weekend.
What's Next for Jericho
Looking ahead, Jericho's schedule allows for potential participation in WWE events later in the year. His band Fozzy is set to embark on a U.S. tour starting May 7, which could free him up for a return to wrestling programming around the time of the Royal Rumble or WrestleMania.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are told Jericho is expected to be at NAMM for the remainder of the weekend, so unless there's a last second change, he'll be in the Los Angeles area, not at Smackdown or SNME.” — Mike Johnson, PWInsider
- “simply wouldn’t exist in its current form without Chris Jericho.” — Tony Khan, President of AEW
In summary, while the anticipation for Chris Jericho's return to WWE remains high, his current commitments to music and confirmed schedule indicate that fans should temper their expectations for this weekend's events.
