The first episode of WWE RAW in 2026 concluded with CM Punk’s victory, without Chris Jericho’s return. Over the past few weeks, there was significant buzz around Jericho’s name as fans expected his comeback in the recent show.
Despite all the buzz, the Y2J didn’t return to the Stamford-based promotion on Monday Night RAW. In this article, we will discuss three reasons why the ex-AEW star didn’t show up on the first RAW of 2026.
#3. Could be set to return at Royal Rumble 2026
No Chris Jericho return 💔 pic.twitter.com/2j32zKPk3I
— Rainmaker 🪙 (@MinestryofDark) January 6, 2026
One of the major reasons Chris Jericho didn’t return to recent RAW could be WWE’s plan to make his return on a much bigger stage. We are now less than a month away from Royal Rumble 2026.
So, it’s likely that even if Jericho is about to return to the World Wrestling Entertainment, the company will prefer Rumble as the place for his return. This could be why Y2J didn’t return in the first episode of the red brand this year.
#2. Due to Fozzy’s schedule
Besides competing in the squared circle, Chris Jericho is part of the Fozzy band. According to a recent report, the band is set to tour the UK from February 6 to 21. This means that the Y2J will be unavailable to appear on WWE television during that tenure.
Considering this, the Triple H-led promotion may prefer not to bring Jericho on Monday Night RAW this week. The company may discuss the schedule with the veteran and then execute his comeback.
#1. WWE & Chris Jericho still negotiating for a deal?
It’s been 2,810 days since Chris Jericho’s last WWE appearance.. pic.twitter.com/0ZRRACWyu5
— Wrestle Features (@WrestleFeatures) January 5, 2026
There was a big discussion among the audience about Chris Jericho’s return to WWE. However, the Stamford-based promotion has yet to confirm Y2J’s comeback officially.
This opens the door for the company to still negotiate a deal with the veteran star, and this could be the reason behind his no-show on Monday Night RAW.
As of now, Jericho is a free agent, and he is free to sign anywhere he wants. The former WWE talent is no longer associated with Tony Khan’s promotion. So, it will not be a surprise for anyone if Chris Jericho is negotiating with the Triple H creative regime before making his earth-shaking comeback.
Rest, it will be interesting to see what happens in the upcoming weeks and whether Jericho will return to World Wrestling Entertainment.
