Latest Update On Chris Jericho’s AEW Contract Status

Chris Jericho is back on fan speculation bingo cards following the reveal of a big box on WWE Raw, and a new report has an update on his AEW contract status. As noted, a mysterious person-sized crate appeared on Monday night’s show with instructions not to open until Elimination Chamber. The crate fueled immediate speculation that it was a reveal for Jericho, who has been rumored to be making his return to WWE once his AEW contract expires.

Fightful Select reports that, at least as of now, the box is not for Jericho. Jericho is still listed on the AEW roster page, indicating that he is still under contract. The Learning Tree has not appeared in AEW TV since April of last year and Fightful notes that according to sources close to both Jericho and AEW, it is believed his deal was frozen when he took time off.

It’s not clear when Jericho’s contract with AEW is up. Injury time could lead to a deal being extended, as could other factors. It’s also possible that he has re-signed; as of now, there is no confirmation one way or another regarding that. Fightful has asked several times officially if Jericho is out of AEW and has not received a response, unlike what is usually done if a talent leaves. Additionally, no internal memo has been sent regarding an exit by Jericho as is usually the case when a talent leaves.

It has been noted that Jericho has yet to announce any AEW talent for the latest Jericho Cruise, which is set to take place in November. Sources say that Jericho is still actively accepting convention dates for the upcoming months.

Sources close to Jericho have been quiet about his future. Jericho has reportedly told people he would be open to a WWE return, but is concerned he may have to give up his remaining outside projects while he was there.

TL/DR: Jericho is still under AEW contract, sources believe his deal was frozen in some capacity when he took time off, and Jericho is staying quiet about his future. So he’s probably not the in the mystery crate — and if so, hopefully someone drilled some holes in it because two weeks is a long time to hold your breath.