Chris Jericho has opened up about the speculation surrounding his AEW future, insisting he never truly left the company despite months away from television. As his contract reportedly reached its end later that year, rumors quickly spread suggesting he could be headed back to WWE. Those reports were ultimately put to rest when Jericho made his return to AEW in April 2026. Speaking during an appearance on Beef Vegan, Jericho explained that while he evaluated his options when his contract expired, he never viewed himself as being away from AEW. Jericho Discusses Future After AEW RedemptionDuring the same interview, Jericho also reflected on his recent victory over Tommaso Ciampa at AEW Redemption in Montreal.