In the tumultuous world of professional wrestling, where personas shift like tides and alliances ebb and flow, Chris Jericho stands as a paragon of adaptability and reinvention. With a storied career spanning an impressive 33 years, the legendary performer continues to defy expectations and push the boundaries of his craft, finding solace in the ever-evolving landscape of the squared circle.
At the recent AEW Double or Nothing PPV in Las Vegas, Jericho showcased his enduring prowess in a hard-fought battle for the FTW Championship, emerging victorious in a triple threat match against formidable opponents Hook and Katsuyori Shibata. Yet, as the dust settled and the echoes of battle faded, Jericho’s triumph was marred by controversy, with accusations of underhanded tactics tarnishing his victory.
In his current AEW persona, Jericho has adopted the moniker of “The Learning Tree,” positioning himself as a seasoned veteran eager to impart wisdom and guidance to the next generation of wrestlers. It’s a role that speaks to Jericho’s enduring commitment to his craft, as he seeks to evolve and revitalize his character with each passing chapter of his illustrious career.
Speaking to KCAL News in Los Angeles, Jericho offered insight into his perpetual quest for reinvention, emphasizing the importance of keeping things fresh and dynamic in the ever-changing landscape of professional wrestling.
“It’s amazing,” Jericho mused, reflecting on his journey. “When you have been in the business as long as I have, 33 years, you always wanna evolve and revamp your character. Kind of get some diversity with what you’re doing, so I think reestablishing myself under this Learning Tree gives you a new vibe, reinvigorates you, and keeps things fresh and fun.”
Yet, amidst the ebbs and flows of character evolution, Jericho finds solace in the polarizing reactions he elicits from audiences, relishing the opportunity to stoke the fires of controversy and provoke impassioned responses from fans.
“The one thing about wrestling, and it’s very important,” Jericho asserts, “is you have to understand the concepts of being a good guy and, when it starts getting stale, of being a bad guy… I take great pride in kind of making people angry with things ’cause that’s what you want to do. You’re playing a character.”
Embracing the dichotomy between his on-screen persona and his real-life self, Jericho revels in the transformative power of larger-than-life characters, recognizing that in the realm of professional wrestling, authenticity is often found in the art of illusion.
“When Chris Jericho comes on screen in AEW, it’s different from the Chris Jericho you’re talking to right now,” he acknowledges. “That’s the way it should be. A larger-than-life character is kind of what wrestling is all about, and I embrace that wholly.”
In the grand tapestry of professional wrestling, Chris Jericho remains a masterful storyteller, weaving narratives of triumph and treachery with equal finesse. As he continues to navigate the tumultuous waters of the squared circle, one thing remains abundantly clear: the legacy of Chris Jericho is etched in the annals of wrestling history, a testament to his enduring passion, talent, and unparalleled ability to captivate audiences around the world.