All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has been buzzing with speculation about Chris Jericho’s contract status, sparking rumors of a possible WWE return. On August 28, 2025, both AEW producer Tony Schiavone and company president Tony Khan addressed the chatter, offering clarity while praising Jericho’s legacy within the promotion.

Schiavone was direct when asked about the rumors, firmly dismissing speculation that Jericho could be on his way out. Speaking in his producer role, he emphasized Jericho’s deep ties with AEW and brushed off the idea that WWE had made a play for the veteran star. Sports Illustrated reported that Schiavone highlighted Jericho’s importance not only as a wrestler but also as someone who shapes the company’s culture behind the scenes.

Khan echoed that sentiment during AEW’s recent media call. He praised Jericho for helping establish AEW’s identity since its inception and reminded fans that Jericho has been a pillar of the company since 2019. While not providing exact contract details, Khan made it clear that Jericho remains a priority for AEW. According to POST Wrestling, Khan balanced his remarks by also addressing Deonna Purrazzo’s uncertain status and discussing Ring of Honor’s future under the AEW umbrella.

Jericho’s Legacy and AEW’s Future

The speculation about Jericho’s contract status underscores how critical he remains to AEW’s identity. Khan referred to Jericho as a “founding father” of the promotion. That praise was echoed in a separate piece from SEScoops, which noted Khan’s heartfelt admiration for Jericho’s contributions.

The conversation also hinted at AEW’s broader strategic direction. Khan’s media call wasn’t limited to Jericho—he used the platform to reinforce AEW’s commitment to both its current stars and developmental ventures like ROH. While he avoided discussing specific contract expiration dates, his focus on growth suggested that AEW sees stability in keeping veterans like Jericho while also building future talent pipelines.

Why the Rumors Matter

AEW fans know that contract speculation often generates buzz across the wrestling world. Jericho’s name carries weight not just because of his storied career, but because of his pivotal role in legitimizing AEW during its early days. The mere suggestion of a WWE return was enough to stir debate online. However, with Schiavone and Khan both speaking publicly, the message is clear: Jericho remains a cornerstone in AEW’s plans.

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Whether through in-ring performances, commentary, or mentorship, Jericho’s AEW journey is far from over. For now, fans can expect to continue seeing him featured prominently while AEW charts its path forward.

Conclusion: All Elite Wrestling leaders Tony Schiavone and Tony Khan have shut down speculation about Chris Jericho’s departure. Their comments reaffirm Jericho’s value to AEW, while also showcasing the company’s broader vision for talent and growth. Fans following AEW’s next chapter can be confident that Jericho will remain at the heart of the story.

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