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WWE Sparks Speculation Of Chris Jericho Return With WWE Vault Teases
Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
  • WWE uploaded two classic Jericho matches to the Vault, igniting talk of a WWE return.
  • Jericho's AEW contract nears the end, and sources say WWE is enthusiastic about re-signing him.
  • Fans and reports predict a surprise Royal Rumble or big return; could be leverage or a real move.

Rumors of Chris Jericho’s potential return to WWE have been all over news outlets and social media, with Jericho liking posts and having fun with the idea that coming back home is not a wild idea. Things hit a fever pitch this week after WWE seemingly got in on the fun and uploaded two of his classic matches to the WWE Vault YouTube channel.

Is WWE Teasing Jericho Returning As Well?

On Thursday, WWE posted Jericho’s 2016 Raw match against Roman Reigns, followed on Friday by his 2005 bout with John Cena — both coinciding with the ninth and 20th anniversaries of those episodes, respectively. The timing, combined with growing reports of Jericho’s AEW contract nearing its end, has sent the wrestling world into speculation overdrive.

Several sources believe Jericho, back in WWE, has legs. Jericho liked a post on Instagram about being open to a return to WWE once his contract with AEW expires at the end of this year. Bully Ray said, "I would bring Chris Jericho back to the WWE just to work with LA Knight." Further to that, some reports suggest that people within AEW expect Jericho to return to WWE, with some even predicting he could make a surprise appearance in the 2026 Royal Rumble.

WrestleVotes reported that there is“a lot of enthusiasm” within WWE about bringing Jericho back and that a deal is “expected to be completed” once his AEW contract expires.

Jericho has not appeared on AEW television since April. It feels like the company doesn't have plans to use him, but there is some speculation that he might have asked for time away. All of this could be Jericho using leverage to sign another deal with AEW. If it sounds like he might make the jump, perhaps Tony Khan gives him another offer, one that works for Jericho. As the company’s first major signing when the promotion kicked off, Jericho helped secure AEW’s initial TV deal and was instrumental in their strong start. Then again, Cody Rhodes was a huge part of AEW's debut, and they let him leave.

WWE Has To Know What They're Doing With The Jericho Videos

Fans on social media were quick to notice the timing of WWE’s uploads. Comments like “Jericho is for sure coming back,” “I miss hearing ‘Break the Walls Down,’” and “Y’all know EXACTLY what you’re doing!” dominated the reactions.

Whether coincidence or a carefully planned tease, one thing is sure — the wrestling world is watching closely to see if Jericho is heading back to WWE and if WWE wants fans to think he is.

This article first appeared on The Sportster and was syndicated with permission.

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