Jericho on AEW hiatus as WWE return talk continues

Chris Jericho, one of professional wrestling's most recognizable figures, remains on hiatus from All Elite Wrestling programming but will appear in Hollywood next month as the host of a Q and A for the world premiere of the horror film Big Baby. Jericho has not wrestled for AEW since April, when he lost the ROH World Championship to Bandido in a title versus mask match at AEW Dynasty and subsequently departed from his Learning Tree stable on an episode of Dynamite.

Jericho’s absence has coincided with growing speculation about his future. His contract with AEW is widely reported to run through December 2025, leaving open the possibility that he could become a free agent next year. That timeline has fueled talk of a potential return to WWE, a move Jericho has not ruled out. In a recent interview he said he was still signed with AEW for now and that he "wouldn't be opposed" to going back to WWE, adding that having two major promotions benefits performers and fans.

AEW leadership has publicly left the door open for Jericho’s return. President Tony Khan praised Jericho as a foundational figure in the company and said he would welcome him back, noting Jericho’s role as AEW’s first...