Posted By James Walsh on 10/29/25
Another Possible Sign That Chris Jericho Is Done With AEW
Chris Jericho’s contract with All Elite Wrestling is set to expire in two months. The former World Heavyweight Champion is said to be eyeing a WWE return in 2026 for a possible retirement tour and Hall of Fame induction.
Over the past few months, there have been several indications that Jericho could be preparing to move on from AEW. Earlier this year, he admitted that he’d be open to returning to WWE someday. Moreover, his 2026 cruise isn’t advertising any AEW talent or matches, which is a major change compared to previous years.
The latest sign came earlier this month when Jericho’s trademark filing for “The Jericho Vortex” was officially ruled as dead and abandoned by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The trademark was initially filed in April 2024, but was abandoned due to a “failure to file timely SOU or extension request.”
The term “Jericho Vortex” became popular among fans frustrated with his AEW storylines, as many believed that wrestlers who feuded with him often ended up stuck in long, drawn-out rivalries that didn’t elevate them.
Y2J had seemingly embraced the idea, planning to make it part of his on-screen persona and claim that working with him helped wrestlers reach new levels.
Chris Jericho hasn’t appeared in AEW since April. Tony Khan has stated on a few occasions that he’d love to have the 54-year-old back.