Chris Jericho Rumor Killer?

The Ayatollah of Rock and Rolla joined Tony Khan’s promotion in 2019 following his departure from WWE. He has since been one of the foundational cornerstones of AEW television programming.

Nevertheless, the inaugural AEW World Champion has been completely absent from television for nearly a year. Speculation has run rampant recently, as rumors suggested his contract quietly expired last December.

The 55-year-old veteran is also heavily rumored to make a shocking comeback to WWE. A recent report from Fightful Select claimed Jericho was actually still under contract with AEW.

The report added that there is a belief that the wrestling legend’s contract was frozen when he took time off in 2025. This would mean the company extended his deal to make up for the missed dates.

On a recent episode of the 83 Weeks podcast, co-host Conrad Thompson addressed the recent report. The podcast, which features WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff, tackled the rumor head-on.

Ric Flair’s son-in-law claimed the report held absolutely no truth whatsoever. He stated that the information regarding the frozen contract was a million percent incorrect.

During the episode, Thompson initiated the exchange by asking a pointed question. “What’s Larry Thompson’s favorite word that he says that you like?” he asked.

Bischoff quickly replied, “Bullsh*t.”

Thompson confirmed his stance on the contract report immediately. “Buddy, that’s what that is a million percent,” he stated.

Bischoff pushed back, questioning his co-host’s certainty on the matter. “Why do you think that? The delay says freaking everything. You’re not as good a poker player as you think you are,” Bischoff argued.

Thompson refused to reveal his sources but maintained his position. “I’m not gonna say, but what’s Larry call it?” he asked again.

Bischoff repeated the word, “Bullsh*t.”

Thompson then delivered his final verdict on the rumors circulating online. “That’s what that is. And by the way, I wanna be surprised. I’m pulling for whatever’s coming next,” Thompson explained.

He emphasized that he is a wrestling fan first and foremost and wants to see a genuine surprise. “I’m a wrestling fan first and foremost. I wanna see the surprise. But that, my friends, is some bullsh*t. That’s some fake news,” he ended.

The conflicting reports have only increased the intrigue surrounding Jericho’s next career move. If his contract is indeed expired, he would be free to sign with any major promotion immediately.

Jericho previously stated that he enjoyed his time in AEW and felt he helped build the brand from the ground up. However, the lure of finishing his career on the grandest stage possible might be too much to ignore.

He has not competed in a WWE ring since the Greatest Royal Rumble event several years ago. WWE fans will be watching closely as WrestleMania 42 approaches in April to see if he makes a significant moment by appearing.

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SEO Description: Conrad Thompson denies recent reports that Chris Jericho’s AEW contract has been frozen, calling the rumors fake news on the 83 Weeks podcast. With WrestleMania 42 approaching, speculation continues regarding the inaugural AEW World Champion making a shocking return to WWE.