Report: Chris Jericho WWE Return Rumors for Montreal Killed Due to NAMM
Rumors of a shock homecoming for the high-profile free agent have been shot down. A conflicting appearance in California will keep the Canadian legend away from the Bell Centre.
Backstage Report: Y2J Grounded?
A new report from PWInsider has clarified Chris Jericho’s availability for the upcoming WWE tour of Canada.
Key Details:
- Status: Not expected for SmackDown or Saturday Night’s Main Event.
- Location: Los Angeles/Anaheim, California.
- Reason: Advertised appearance at NAMM 2026.
Source: PWInsider Elite
With WWE taking over the Bell Centre in Montreal for a massive double-header this weekend, Chris Jericho WWE return rumors have reached a fever pitch. Given his status as a Canadian icon and his current position as arguably the biggest free agent in professional wrestling, many fans hoped for a surprise cameo at Saturday Night’s Main Event. However, confirmed reports indicate that Jericho will not be walking through the curtain.
The NAMM Conflict: Music Over Wrestling
According to the report, Jericho’s absence is not a creative decision but a logistical impossibility. He is currently booked for the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) show in Anaheim, California. PWInsider notes that Jericho is “advertised to perform Friday” at the convention and is expected to remain in the Los Angeles area for the duration of the weekend.
While a “red-eye” flight from LAX to Montreal is theoretically possible, the report explicitly states that “unless there’s a last second change, he’ll be in the Los Angeles area, not at Smackdown or SNME.” This effectively kills the Chris Jericho WWE return rumors for this specific tour.
Context: The Free Agent Landscape
The intensity of these rumors stems from Jericho’s current contract status. His deal with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) reportedly expired on December 31, 2025. Since then, he has not appeared on AEW television, and reports from Fightful Select indicate no internal memos regarding a renewal have been circulated.
Despite being technically free to negotiate, Jericho has not been factored into WWE creative plans as of early January. This suggests that while he is a free agent, a deal with WWE has not been finalized—or at least, hasn’t reached the stage where he would be integrated into a premium live event. The Montreal show seemed like the perfect stage for a homecoming, but the timing of NAMM has closed that window.
PWS Analysis: The “Free Agent” Pop
Jericho’s absence is a blow to the Montreal card, as his surprise return would have generated one of the loudest reactions of the year. However, it clarifies that WWE is currently comfortable moving forward with its existing roster.
The psychology of the “Free Agent Pop” relies on the element of surprise. By debunking these Chris Jericho WWE return rumors early, insiders have managed expectations, preventing the live crowd from hijacking the show with “Y2J” chants during other segments. Until Jericho officially puts pen to paper, fans should expect similar speculation for every major show, especially the upcoming Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia.
Impact on Montreal Card
With the rumor mill silenced for this weekend, the spotlight in Montreal will firmly remain on active stars. The card for Saturday Night’s Main Event remains stacked with championship bouts, but fans holding out hope for “Judas” to hit the speakers should temper their expectations.
For the confirmed card and talent lineup, check our comprehensive WWE Schedule.