4 Bold Predictions for Chris Jericho’s WWE Return in 2026

Chris Jericho's AEW contract is rumored to end on December 31, and reports of a potential return to WWE have been doing the rounds. The former World Heavyweight Champion has not been seen on AEW programming in months, and could possibly be headed back to the Stamford-based promotion in the new year.

However, considering the stacked main roster right now, fans have been left wondering where the legend will end up once he comes back. With that in mind, here are four predictions for Chris Jericho upon a potential return to WWE.

4. Chris Jericho could join The Judgment Day

The Judgment Day has been left short of members with JD McDonagh and Dominik Mysterio both out injured. There is no timeline for the recovery of either star, and that has left Finn Balor as the sole male member of the group that is healthy.

Perhaps it could be time for another reinvention for the group, and it could be in the form of Chris Jericho's arrival. The veteran was a part of several factions in AEW, and could bring his experience to help Balor and Co. enter their new era.

3. He could revive The List of Jericho

During his previous run in WWE, Jericho's list became very popular among fans. While it remains unclear to this day what the purpose of the list was, it was an entertaining gimmick. Should he return as a babyface, he could bring out The List of Jericho once again.

It seems unlikely that the veteran will wrestle a lot once he comes back. Therefore, a prominent gimmick, especially one with The List, could be where he finds himself.

2. He could be one of the final few in the Royal Rumble

One of the best ways to reintroduce Jericho could be to have him return as the final entrant in the Royal Rumble. The premium live event is set to be held in Saudi Arabia this year, but that doesn't mean there can't be any surprises.

The Royal Rumble match is synonymous with surprise returns, and this year could be Chris Jericho's turn to shock the fans. To help him gain even more momentum, he could be one of the final five in the Royal Rumble before eventually being eliminated by the winner (likely to be Roman Reigns).

1. He could form a new faction on SmackDown

With RAW having much more star power owing to its presence on Netflix, SmackDown needs more established names. As a result, it makes a lot of sense for the Liontamer to head to the blue brand upon his comeback.

Chris Jericho could start a new faction, like he did in AEW, with a set of young stars to help them gain a foothold on the blue brand. Perhaps it could be alongside Trick Williams, #DIY or even the Street Profits, who have been off television for months.

The former AEW World Champion will be of more use to WWE as a manager/leader of a faction, and helping the new era of stars get over would be the best way to use him upon his comeback.

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Edited by Arsh Das