Chris Jericho holds a unique place in AEW’s history, not necessarily as the top performer, but as the key signing that lent the company instant credibility when it launched in 2019. Despite some decline in fan support over recent years, his contract with AEW is ending this year, and it appears nearly certain that Jericho will make a return to WWE. If that occurs, WWE needs to carefully plan his comeback to maximize impact.
A highly anticipated moment for Jericho’s return could be the first episode of WWE Raw in 2026, scheduled for January 5th at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. That night already features a major World Heavyweight Championship bout between CM Punk and Bron Breaker. Jericho’s surprise entrance during the event could electrify the crowd and create a memorable moment, especially given the hype surrounding the show.
However, a simple surprise appearance may not do justice to Jericho’s legacy. Jericho’s previous returns to WWE were famously built up over several weeks using countdown clocks and mystery vignettes, generating massive anticipation and engagement. For his final run, WWE should adopt a similar approach, blending nostalgia and suspense to build a storyline that keeps fans guessing and talking.
If Jericho doesn’t appear on January 5th, WWE could instead tease his return through vignettes leading up to the Royal Rumble in late January. Yet, there are concerns about Jericho’s potential participation in the 2026 Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia, as many fans disapprove of the location and might avoid watching. It could be smarter for WWE to hold off on the high-profile return until Jericho can come back on Raw or SmackDown in front of a supportive North American crowd.
Jericho deserves a farewell run that honors his legendary career with a storyline as compelling as those that made him a star. WWE fans will be eager to see how the company handles this pivotal moment, which could significantly influence fan enthusiasm and storytelling in wrestling.
Fan Take: Jericho’s return to WWE is not just about bringing back a wrestling icon; it’s about reigniting a passion for storytelling and excitement that today’s WWE has struggled to maintain. How WWE books this comeback could set a new standard for honoring wrestling legends while energizing the fanbase for years to come.
