Chris Jericho’s AEW Contract Frozen, WWE Return Possible

Chris Jericho’s future in professional wrestling is currently uncertain as reports indicate All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has frozen his contract. The situation, similar to that of Cody Rhodes before his return to WWE, could open the door for a potential return to the company he previously helped build.

Contract Freeze Explained

Word surfaced earlier this week that AEW has frozen the contract of the former AEW World Champion. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Radio confirmed hearing similar reports, stating the news is likely legitimate. According to initial reports from Fightful Select, the contract was frozen when Jericho took time off from AEW programming.

Meltzer explained that Jericho’s previous periods of time off during his current deal allowed AEW to freeze his contract and add additional time to it. “He had taken long periods off at different times during this last deal, so I knew that they had the right to freeze the contract and tack on more time. I didn’t know that they did it,” Meltzer stated. Sources contacted by Meltzer remained silent on the issue, leading him to believe the Fightful report is accurate.

Potential WWE Return

The contract freeze potentially delays, but doesn’t eliminate, a future move to WWE. Meltzer believes Jericho could eventually have the right to negotiate with other companies, or AEW could potentially work out a new agreement. He has even advised Jericho to consider a return to WWE, suggesting it might be the best option for his career at this stage.

Meltzer noted that WWE’s fanbase may be more receptive to Jericho than the AEW audience has been recently. Although Jericho is a legend in the wrestling world, he hasn’t consistently received positive reactions during his recent run in AEW, a situation reminiscent of Cody Rhodes’ departure from the company.

Jericho’s Mindset and Outside Projects

Meltzer doesn’t believe a WWE Hall of Fame induction is a primary motivator for Jericho. However, Jericho has reportedly expressed openness to a WWE return, with a concern about potentially having to relinquish his outside projects.

As of today, February 19, 2026, Chris Jericho remains listed on the official AEW roster.

Key Takeaways

• AEW has reportedly frozen Chris Jericho’s contract due to previous time off.
• A return to WWE is a possibility for Jericho, though currently delayed.
• Dave Meltzer believes WWE’s fanbase would be more accepting of Jericho.
• Jericho has reportedly expressed interest in a WWE return, but has concerns about outside projects.