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Why Chris Jericho Must Retire After Next AEW/WWE Contract

By John Canton • Published Nov 21, 2025 17:00 EST
Chris Jericho

Chris Jericho is still performing in pro wrestling, but nothing lasts forever.

For more than 30 years, Chris Jericho has been performing regularly as a pro wrestler, from his early days in Canada, Mexico, and Japan, to signing with ECW, which led to a memorable run in WCW, and a legendary run in WWE. After feeling it was time to move on, Jericho thrived as a huge draw for NJPW as well.

Since 2019, Jericho has been All Elite and holds the distinction of being the first-ever AEW World Champion.

Regarding his future, the 55-year-old Chris Jericho remains under contract with AEW, but his last appearance was last April, and there are rumors that he wants to return “home’ to WWE.

There has also been a lot of discussion within WWE about a Chris Jericho return to the ring, which would likely lead to a Hall of Fame induction for one of the greatest WWE superstars of all time.

Chris Jericho’s Next Wrestling Contract May Be His Last

Another example of Jericho possibly wanting to leave AEW for WWE is that he recently said TNA Bound for Glory’s crowd made TNA look like the second-biggest wrestling company, not AEW. Considering TNA has a working agreement with TNA and Jericho is still under contract with AEW, it’s a bit of a surprise to hear Jericho say that.

It is believed that Jericho’s AEW deal expires at the end of this year, which means he could sign with WWE in January and appear in the Royal Rumble, as many people have speculated.

Former WWE superstar Steve Richards made a point on his YouTube channel about how, at 55, Jericho is likely going to sign his last wrestling contract because, at some point, he’ll want to retire in good health.

“I think this is an important contract for Chris because this will probably be the last wrestling contract that Chris Jericho has if he wants to walk away healthy. I know he’s had his issues in the weight gain and also probably injuries and other stuff, and he’s 55.

Traveling, doing the concert and wrestling thing at the same time, splitting focus – all these different things, it’s wear and tear on your body. So my guess, and hopefully I’m wrong, this would probably be the last physical wrestling contract that Chris would sign. So maximize it.”

After turning 55, Chris Jericho posted a gym selfie showing he’s still in great shape, and looks like he’s ready to step back into the ring soon.

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