Chris Jericho's Royal Rumble Comeback Hinges on Victory, Says David Otunga

Otunga believes Jericho must win the Rumble or face interference to set up a larger narrative

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:05am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a wrestling match or competition, with sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant red, blue, and yellow colors capturing the raw energy and intensity of the event.Otunga's insights on Jericho's potential Royal Rumble return hint at the complex narratives and high-stakes drama that could unfold in the world of professional wrestling.Today in Tulsa

As the Royal Rumble approaches, former WWE star David Otunga shared his insights on the likelihood of Chris Jericho making a surprise appearance at the event. Otunga believes that if Jericho does return, his booking should reflect his stature in the wrestling world - either winning outright or facing interference that prevents his victory, which can then be woven into a larger storyline. Otunga also expressed interest in a potential rivalry between Jericho and CM Punk, given the rumors surrounding Punk's tenure in AEW.

Why it matters

Jericho's potential return to the Royal Rumble would generate significant excitement among wrestling fans, as he is a former World Champion with a storied career. Otunga's comments suggest that WWE would need to handle Jericho's booking carefully to maximize the impact of his comeback and set up future storylines.

The details

In a recent episode of TMZ Inside The Ring, David Otunga shared his thoughts on the possibility of Chris Jericho making an appearance at the upcoming Royal Rumble. Otunga believes that if Jericho does show up, he should either win the Rumble outright or face some form of interference that prevents him from claiming victory, which can then be woven into a larger narrative. Otunga also expressed interest in a potential rivalry between Jericho and CM Punk, given the rumors surrounding Punk's tenure in AEW.

  • The Royal Rumble is scheduled to take place in the coming weeks.

The players

Chris Jericho

A former World Champion in WWE with a storied career in professional wrestling.

David Otunga

A former WWE star who previously worked with CM Punk as part of the New Nexus stable.

CM Punk

A former WWE Champion who currently holds the AEW World Championship, with rumors circulating about his tenure in the company.

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What they’re saying

“If Jericho appears at the Royal Rumble, he either needs to win outright or face some sort of interference that prevents him from claiming victory, which can then be woven into a larger narrative. I have immense respect for Chris Jericho, so I think this would be an incredible development.”

— David Otunga, Former WWE Star

“There have been some wild stories circulating about Punk during his time in AEW, so revisiting that rivalry might hold significant appeal. There could definitely be underlying tensions there.”

— David Otunga, Former WWE Star

“It would be fantastic to work alongside CM Punk again before he decides to hang up his boots for good. During our previous collaboration, I was one of his protégés within the New Nexus, but having another opportunity to team up or compete against him would be thrilling... especially since he's currently the champion. I would love the chance to challenge him for that title.”

— David Otunga, Former WWE Star

What’s next

The Royal Rumble is scheduled to take place in the coming weeks, and fans will be eagerly awaiting any potential surprise entrants, including the possibility of Chris Jericho making a comeback.

The takeaway

Otunga's comments suggest that WWE would need to handle Jericho's potential return to the Royal Rumble carefully, ensuring that his booking reflects his stature in the wrestling world and sets up compelling future storylines, potentially including a rivalry with CM Punk.