Chris Jerichos absence from AEW television since April has had fans whispering about everything from creative burnout to a WWE return. Now, we finally have an update on why hes been missingand why it could still lead to him walking away from AEW.
According to Sean Ross Sapp on Fightful Selects October 19, 2025 Q&A, the reason Jericho hasnt been on AEW programming is pretty simplefor now.
But that doesnt shut the door on a possible exitbecause all signs around Jerichos next major project point in the opposite direction.
The 2026 edition of Chris Jerichos Rock N Wrestling Rager at Sea was recently announced for November 711. What stood out immediately? No AEW branding. No AEW wrestlers. No mention of the company anywhere in the promotional materials. That hasnt gone unnoticed. On Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan Alvarez called it out bluntly:
Dave Meltzer added that WWE sources believe Jericho is on his way back to WWEand said its no coincidence he hasnt been on AEW TV for months.
Back in October 2022, Jericho signed a new three-year AEW deal, as reported by Variety. That contract is set to expire between November and December 2025just weeks before the cruise sets sail. If Jericho isnt already preparing for a return to WWE, hes doing a great job looking like he is.
Adding even more fuel, Jericho hasnt been reviewing AEW matches on his podcast and appears to be shifting focus away from the company. Hes staying vague by design. When asked recently on Busted Open Radio what comes next, he teased the unknown:
At this point, the cruise feels like a stage being set for something differentand with his AEW contract winding down, Jericho may be charting his exit behind the scenes.
What do you think Chris Jericho's next move should be? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
