Tony Khan Makes Surprising Chris Jericho Pitch

The uncertainty around Chris Jericho continues.

Chris Jericho hasn’t been seen on AEW television since walking out on The Learning Tree on the April 7 episode of Dynamite. But more interestingly, there’s been growing speculation that he might never be back.

Jericho’s AEW contract expires in December, and for many fans, this leaves the way clear for a return to WWE at the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia. As noted in a recent report, WWE’s pitch to Jericho would include a match at WrestleMania and a Hall of Fame induction.

Meanwhile, the veteran recently threw a verbal jab at the promotion as he praised TNA — a company with a very close relationship with WWE.

Chris Jericho To Retire In AEW?

During a new interview with Adam’s Apple, Tony Khan discussed the speculation around Jericho and how he might choose to round out his career. The AEW boss said that he’d love for Jericho to have his last match with the company, but believes his retirement won’t be coming any time soon.

“I would say that absolutely, I’d love it if Chris, his final match is eventually — whenever Chris someday would want to hang it up — were in AEW but I also don’t think Chris is really near that point.”

Speaking during a different interview with Ariel Helwani, Tony Khan confirmed that Chris Jericho is still under contract with AEW, adding that the “door is always open.”