WWE Return Rumours Debunked; Major Name Signs New AEW Deal

One top name is not going back to WWE as they sign a new deal to stay All Elite with AEW.

In recent weeks, the rumour mill has been put into overdrive with suggestions that Chris Jericho could be on his way back to WWE. Jericho was one of the first names signed when AEW was formed in early 2019 and became the very first AEW World Champion later that year.

However, Jericho has not been seen in months at this point and with his contract ending with AEW at the end of the year, there have been plenty of suggestions that Jericho could make his return to WWE, likely at the 2026 Royal Rumble.

While Chris Jericho might have one foot out of the door, another name with AEW from the very start is going nowhere.

Jim Ross Sticking With AEW Despite WWE Talks

Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, commentating legend Jim Ross revealed that any rumours of him returning to WWE were false as he’s inked a new deal with Tony Khan’s company:

I saw somewhere online where it said I was in negotiations with WWE to go back. I hadn’t heard that one. I haven’t talked to them, no plans to go back. It’s just not the right time for me to get more involved in the business.

But they could come to me with an idea we haven’t discussed, and I might reconsider. Still, I like where I am. I like the schedule I have, the freedom I have. I enjoy working with the young talent in AEW. I’m happy where I am—really am. Not a lot of stress or pressure.

I just signed a new contract for a year. Got that done before I left. I’m with AEW for one year, until next summer, next August I think it is. I’ve got fewer dates, and I like that. So I have a deal that’s very desirable, to be honest with you.

Jim Ross was on the call at Forbidden Door for the wild lights out steel cage match that saw Will Ospreay, Kota Ibushi, Hiroshi Tanahashi, Kenny Omega, and Darby Allin defeat the Death Riders and The Young Bucks.