The rumor mill is once again swirling around Chris Jericho, and this time it isn’t just about his AEW contract. The former AEW World Champion was recently spotted at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights in Hollywood alongside WWE announcer Mike Rome — a sighting that immediately reignited speculation about a potential WWE return.
Jericho, who has been off AEW television since April, remains one of wrestling’s most recognizable stars. With his AEW deal reportedly set to expire at the end of 2025, every public move he makes feels magnified — and hanging out with a current WWE personality has only added fuel to the fire.
Reports suggest WWE would welcome Jericho back if he hits free agency, though insiders maintain it’s still too early to predict whether negotiations could take place. Creative sources within WWE have downplayed the chatter for now, noting his name hasn’t come up in storyline talks.
The speculation took another turn in August when Jericho “liked” an Instagram post referencing his AEW contract and the possibility of a WWE homecoming.
Jericho Responds to the Buzz
On September 5, Jericho finally addressed the rumors directly:
“I’m not going anywhere for a while. I’m still with AEW for right now. Would I go back to WWE? I wouldn’t be opposed to it, we just have to see what happens.”
His comments kept the door wide open, acknowledging both his current AEW status and his willingness to consider a WWE return down the line.
WWE’s Big-Stage Possibility
Some fans have speculated that if Jericho were to return, the 2026 Royal Rumble could be a fitting stage. That may be fantasy booking for now, but the fact Jericho hasn’t closed the door leaves plenty of room for WWE fans to dream.
🗣️ Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
Chris Jericho has always thrived in the spotlight — and he knows exactly how to stoke speculation. A casual outing with Mike Rome doesn’t guarantee anything, but combined with his own noncommittal comments, it keeps the wrestling world buzzing. Whether Jericho stays with AEW, shocks fans with a WWE return, or charts a new path altogether, one thing is clear: he’s still one of the most talked-about names in the business.
