A mystery crate on the February 16 episode of WWE RAW sparked plenty of fan theories — including talk of a possible Chris Jericho return. However, a new report has quickly cooled that speculation.
During RAW, a massive box labeled “Deliver to WWE” and “Do not open until 2/28/26” appeared backstage.
With Elimination Chamber set for that date, fans immediately began connecting dots. One popular guess? Jericho is making a surprise comeback.
Reports Shoot Down Chris Jericho WWE Return Talk
According to Fightful Select, Chris Jericho remains firmly under contract with All Elite Wrestling. Sean Ross Sapp reports that the belief within AEW — and among those close to the AEW star — is that his deal was frozen after he took time off in 2025.
While the former WWE star’s original contract was believed to run through 2025, several factors might have played a hand in extending it. Fightful notes that contract freezes, injury time, or even a quiet re-signing could all play a role. Without seeing the contract itself, the exact mechanism isn’t confirmed.
Jericho’s name still appears on AEW’s official roster page, which typically signals that a talent remains under contract. Fightful also reports that no internal memo regarding his departure has been circulated. This usually happens when talent exits the company.
Those close to the AEW star have reportedly been tight-lipped about his future. The report adds that Jericho has told people he would be open to a WWE return, but he is concerned about potentially giving up outside projects if he were to sign.
For now, the mystery crate remains just that — a mystery. As far as Chris Jericho is concerned, the door to WWE isn’t forbidden, but it doesn’t appear to be opening on February 28.
Read More: WWE’s Je’Von Evans To Set Unique Elimination Chamber Record
