Will Chris Jericho return on WWE Raw tonight (January 5, 2026)?

The first Raw of 2026 will emanate from Brooklyn.

Chris Jericho’s highly anticipated return to the WWE has been one of the most talked-about points in the pro-wrestling world. Multiple reports have stated that Jericho’s AEW deal has expired on December 31, further fueling the rumors of his return.

Earlier reports have suggested Jericho’s return as soon as the first episode of Raw, which is now just hours away, leading many fans to further speculate about Y2J’s return. Let us take a look at the rumors and speculations and the truth behind them.

Will Chris Jericho return on WWE Raw tonight?

The first Monday Night Raw of 2026 is set to emanate live from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Three title showdowns, along with the in-ring return of Liv Morgan, have been announced for the show.

The show will also mark the one-year anniversary of the Red Brand on Netflix, as its first episode premiered on January 6, 2025, ushering in a new era for WWE.

General Adam Pearce, during his weekly preview of Raw, where he announces matches and segments, said something that caught the attention of fans.

“There are also three massive championship matches on the card. Who will break down the walls and walk out with gold?” Pearce said during the promo.

The phrase “break down the walls” is famously associated with Jericho’s WWE entrance music, and Pearce’s direct reference to it has sparked speculation among fans about a possible Jericho return.

So is Jericho returning tonight in Brooklyn? The first Raw of 2026 is already stacked with star power and blockbuster matchups. WWE could still choose to bring Jericho back, or the reference may simply be a deliberate misdirection meant to stir buzz and subvert expectations.

Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Daily Update has confirmed that Pearce dropped the hint on purpose.

“They are definitely pushing for a big walk-up because Adam Pearce talked about breaking down the walls, on purpose, which fuels the idea Chris Jericho is returning.”

The approach might just be to generate excitement, boost ticket sales, and fuel further speculations about Jericho’s return, even if it never actually happens tonight, as Meltzer adds that there’s no official confirmation yet on his return date, but many expect it to happen soon, possibly tomorrow or by the end of the month.

“We don’t have it confirmed but many believe that is the case, if not tomorrow, by the end of the month.”

Jericho’s most recent AEW in-ring appearance took place on April 6 at AEW Dynasty, where he lost the ROH World Championship to Bandido in a Title vs. Mask match. On the other hand, his last WWE appearance came during the 2018 Greatest Royal Rumble event.

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