Last week on AEW Dynamite, Chris Jericho made a surprising and much-anticipated return to All Elite Wrestling in Winnipeg. The inaugural World Champion of the company, who had been rumored to be returning to WWE for several months, is now set to discuss his comeback in the Tony Khan-led promotion this week in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Recent reports suggest that WWE’s interest in Jericho was centered around a retirement program, but he chose to sign a new contract with All Elite Wrestling after receiving a more lucrative offer. Considering his age and possible physical condition, this contract might be his final one as an active wrestler.
If Jericho ends his in-ring career in AEW, here are three potential roles he could assume in the company post-retirement.
Chris Jericho could join AEW’s commentary team
Commentary plays a crucial role in professional wrestling, offering viewers the context and background of a match, guiding them through the narrative inside and outside the ring, and advancing major storylines and character developments.
Every major wrestling promotion emphasizes the importance of quality on-air commentary. AEW is no different, having initially hired renowned announcers like Excalibur, Taz, Tony Schiavone, and the legendary Jim Ross.
While Jim Ross’s appearances have become less frequent due to age and health issues, the other three announcers continue to call the action on weekly TV and pay-per-view events. In 2023, former ROH legend Nigel McGuinness joined the promotion, announcing AEW Collision alongside Schiavone. Bryan Danielson, another former All Elite Wrestling World Champion, also joined the commentary team for Wednesday Night Dynamite last year after stepping back from full-time competition in 2024.
All Elite Wrestling occasionally features veterans like Paul Wight, managers like Don Callis and Stokely, and even active talent such as Kenny Omega on commentary. It’s not surprising that Chris Jericho has also taken on announcer duties, mainly on Rampage. While some fans have critiqued him for being overly loud, others appreciate his energy, psychological insight, and humor.
If AEW is where Jericho concludes his wrestling career, he could certainly remain with the company as a dynamic color commentator.
Chris Jericho could work as a producer or on AEW creative
All Elite Wrestling brands itself as the promotion where “the best wrestle.” While ambitious, the company’s growth over the past six years and the acclaim from fans and industry peers alike speak volumes. AEW is known for its high-quality wrestling, which combines character drama and in-ring psychology.
This achievement is due in large part to its highly qualified team of producers and coaches, including veterans with extensive experience like Dean Malenko, Dustin Rhodes, Jerry Lynn, Sonjay Dutt, and Chris Hero. With over three decades in the industry, Chris Jericho would be a valuable addition to AEW’s team of producers post-retirement.
When The Learning Tree re-signed with AEW in 2022, reports indicated that Jericho would take on extra responsibilities as a “producer and creative advisor.” Jericho himself has mentioned having input on his storylines, even though Tony Khan maintains the final say in the company’s booking decisions.
Widely regarded as one of the wrestling world’s most innovative minds, Jericho commands great respect in the AEW locker room. Upon retiring, he could become part of the company’s creative and match-production team on a full-time basis.
Chris Jericho could become a part-time player
Chris Jericho’s global recognition extends beyond wrestling. Since 2000, he has been part of the American heavy metal band Fozzy, producing eight studio albums and performing and touring with them. He also plays in a KISS cover band named Kuarantine.
In addition to music, Jericho has explored acting in both film and television, particularly in horror genres. His film credits include Albino Farm (2009), Terrifier 2 (2022), Dark Match (2022), and Terrifier 3 (2023). He’s also appeared on TV shows like Aaron Stone, Dancing with the Stars, Hollywood Game Night, Whose Line Is It Anyway, The Thundermans, and Tracker.
Jericho’s diverse creative interests kept him busy during his extended break from AEW last year. With various options available after his active wrestling career, Jericho could easily transition to a part-time role with AEW. Similar to Sting, he could sign a non-wrestling contract with the company, promoting the brand while making occasional appearances.
Alternatively, Jericho’s part-time contract could allow him to participate in special post-retirement matches if the opportunity arises.
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Edited by Angana Roy
