Jim Ross has offered his take on Chris Jericho’s future, suggesting the former AEW World Champion is unlikely to sign anywhere other than WWE or remain where he is.
Chris Jericho’s contract status has been the subject of debate in recent weeks, with conflicting reports about whether his AEW deal expired at the end of December. Speculation has linked Jericho to a possible WWE return, while others have floated TNA as an outside option ahead of the promotion’s AMC debut.
Speaking on Grilling JR, Jim Ross dismissed the idea of Jericho landing anywhere other than WWE or AEW.
“I think it’s WWE or nothing for Jericho,” Ross said. “He seems to be happy. He’s got a lot of influence at AEW… he basically books his own angles, he brings ideas, and he communicates well. If he leaves, I think it’s WWE, or he stays where he is. I don’t think the TNA thing plays into it. But, you know, I could be wrong, money changes a lot of opinion.”
Ross stressed that Jericho remains a key figure inside AEW, both onscreen and behind the curtain.
“I think Jericho is such a valuable member of AEW [and] him leaving would hurt the brand. No doubt. You can’t lose a talent like Chris Jericho and say, ‘Oh well, we’ll just move on,’” he said.
Ross praised Jericho’s ability to continually reinvent himself, calling him one of his favourite signings from his own time in WWE talent relations.
How Long Has Jim Ross Been With AEW?
Jim Ross has been with AEW since April 2019, when he signed a three-year contract with the new wrestling company to serve as a commentator and senior advisor. Ross initially joined as part of the full-time broadcast team for Dynamite; however, due to health issues in recent years, he has only appeared sporadically for the company.
Ross’s last appearance for AEW came at All In on July 12, 2025, where he provided commentary for the last two matches of the pay-per-view.
