Speculation ⁤Surrounds Jericho’s AEW Contract

As Chris Jericho‘s contract with All⁣ Elite Wrestling (AEW) nears ⁢its expiration at the end of⁢ the year,⁣ industry speculation regarding a⁢ possible return⁤ to⁢ World⁢ Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has⁤ intensified. Reports indicate a strong ‍belief within WWE that Jericho is poised to rejoin the company for a retirement tour culminating in a Hall‍ of Fame induction.

Recent Actions Fuel Return‍ Rumors

Several recent ⁢developments have added fuel to the speculation. Jericho recently announced dates for⁣ his next cruise, scheduled for November 2026, but⁢ the initial guest list notably excludes any AEW talent. ⁤While ⁤past cruises ⁣have ⁣seen AEW wrestlers added later, this initial omission has been interpreted as a sign of ⁢a⁤ potential shift towards WWE. Moreover, Jericho shared a video on his social media commemorating his 2012 return to WWE.

WWE’s Viewpoint Remains Consistent

Despite a vocal display of support from the⁤ crowd at WWE’s Crown⁢ Jewel event ‍in⁤ Perth,⁣ Australia ⁣- where fans ⁢enthusiastically sang Jericho’s theme⁢ song, “Judas” – sources within ‍WWE ⁤state that this fan reaction has not altered ⁣the company’s plans. According⁣ to these sources, WWE remains confident in ⁤its assessment that Jericho intends to return for ⁢a farewell tour ⁤and eventual Hall of⁤ Fame enshrinement.

“The Perth crowd’s reaction did not ‍influence WWE’s creative direction,” a report states, reinforcing the belief that Jericho’s future plans are already factored into the company’s long-term strategy.

Cruise Guest List and Potential WWE Restrictions

The current cruise guest list also lacks WWE talent, and it remains uncertain whether WWE would even ⁣permit its ‍wrestlers to participate should Jericho return to the company. This potential restriction further suggests a intentional⁢ separation between Jericho’s⁢ future endeavors and his current commitments with AEW.