Welcome back to the deep dive and get ready for
a journey that's, well, it's going to redefine
your understanding of what it means to be a performer.
Today, we're diving into a question that honestly,
it's fascinated me for years. How does one individual
not just conquer one, but multiple entertainment
worlds and stay not just relevant, but like at
the absolute pinnacle of their game for over
three decades? It's a rare feat, really. A true
testament to talent, adaptability, and an almost
relentless strive to reinvent. Our mission today
is to unpack the incredible, multifaceted career
of Christopher Keith Irvine, better known to
millions around the globe as the one, the only
Chris Jericho. He truly is a living legend across
professional wrestling, music, acting, you name
it. You've provided us with just a treasure trove
of source material, primarily a really detailed
Wikipedia entry. It gives us this great chronological
journey through his life and career alongside
these, you know, comprehensive lists of his achievements.
So we're going to sift through this mountain
of information, pulling out the most important
nuggets of knowledge and insight. We'll explore
not just the surprising facts, but those pivotal
moments and that sheer force of will that allowed
Jericho to constantly, constantly reinvent himself.
here just to like recite facts. We're here to
connect the dots on why he's often called Wrestling's
David Bowie and what truly makes him one of the
greatest of all time. So let's jump in. Okay,
so we know him as the Ayatollah of rock and rolla,
Y2J, the Lionheart, but the legend of Chris Jericho,
it begins much more humbly. Born Christopher
Keith Irvine November 9, 1970 in Manhasset, New
York to a Canadian couple. Now, what really stands
out to me here right from the jump is his heritage.
He's of Scottish descent from his father's side
and Ukrainian descent from his mother's. It's
a blend that even looking back seems to hint
at a broader, more diverse path, you know? It
absolutely does. That dual background, both nationally
and ethnically, it suggests a worldview that
wasn't confined to just one place or one culture
from the very start. And it's not just about
heritage. His father, Ted Irvine, was a professional
ice hockey player actively playing for the New
York Rangers right when Chris was born. I mean,
to grow up with that kind of exposure to professional
sports, to competition, to performance, even
indirectly, that must have profoundly influenced
his understanding of what it takes to be a public
figure. That's a fascinating point. Yeah. He
had a direct pipeline to understanding the demands
of professional life from day one. After his
father retired from hockey, the family moved
back to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, which is
where Irvine truly grew up. He holds dual American
and Canadian citizenships, a detail many might
not know, but it feels symbolic, doesn't it?
Like he had a foot in two different worlds right
from the beginning. It perfectly sets the stage
for a career that would span continents and genres.
Precisely. It was almost a foreshadowing, really.
And his early interest in wrestling wasn't just
like a casual pastime. It was quite specific.
It was sparked by watching local American Wrestling
Association, AWA events at the Winnipeg Arena.
But the moment that truly solidified his desire
to become a wrestler was seeing Owen Hart performing
those incredible high -flying moves with stampede
wrestling. That visual, that blend of athleticism
and artistry, it really captivated him and set
him on his path. You can almost picture it, right?
That moment of inspiration. And it wasn't just
Owen. He cited other major inspirations. Owen's
older brother, Brit Hart, a true technical maestro,
the legendary Ricky Steamboat, known for his
incredible baby face fire, and Shawn Michaels,
who ironically would become such a pivotal rival
later in his career. When you look at that list,
technical precision, aerial acrobatics, undeniable
charisma, what does that tell you about the kind
of performer he aspired to be? It's not a narrow
focus, is it? Not at all. It reveals an incredibly
sophisticated understanding, even at a young
age, that success in wrestling isn't about just
one style. It's about a synthesis, you know?
Brett represented technical mastery, Owen the
high -flying excitement, Steamboat the emotional
connection, and Michael's the pure showmanship.
For an aspiring performer to draw from such diverse
top -tier influences, well, it suggests a deep
desire for versatility. not just emulation. It's
rare to see such a broad palette of inspiration.
His first hands on experience, by the way, wasn't
even in the ring. He was part of the ring crew
for the Keystone Wrestling Alliance, literally
learning the ropes from independent wrestlers
like Catfish Charlie and Caveman Broda. So he
was literally learning the foundations from the
ground up, but he wasn't just a physical talent.
He had brains, too. He attended Red River College
in Winnipeg, graduating in 1990 with a diploma
in creative communications. That's a detail that
for me connects directly to his incredible promo
skills and character work throughout his career.
It's no accident that he's so articulate and
charismatic, is it? It sounds like he was consciously
honing those communication tools right from the
start. Absolute, the foundational element. That
background and creative communications undoubtedly
sharpened his ability to craft compelling narratives,
engage an audience, and critically adapt his
persona as needed. You see the immediate application
of that and his ability to cut a promo that just
resonates. At just 19, he finally entered the
Hart Brothers School of Wrestling, and serendipitously,
that's where he met Lance Storm on his very first
day. Storm would become a significant partner
throughout his early career. almost like a destined
companion. What a twist of fate. He was trained
by Ed Langley and a local Calgary wrestler, Brad
Young, and then just two months after completing
training, he made his official debut as cowboy
Chris Jericho on October 2, 1990, in Penocha,
Alberta, his first match, a 10 -minute draw against
none other than Lance Storm. Can you imagine
starting your career against someone you just
met and trained with, knowing you'd share so
much of the journey? That's a unique bond. It
truly is. It speaks to the tight -knit, almost
familial nature of the wrestling community, especially
in those formative independent years. But the
origin of his iconic name Jericho is also a fantastic
story. He initially wanted jack action, which,
well, let's be honest, might not have had the
same longevity or impact. But a remark from someone
about the name being stupid led him to nervously
blurt out Chris Jericho. Huh. And here's where
the rock and roll connection truly begins to
emerge. He took the name from the German power
metal band Halloween's album Walls of Jericho.
This early detail, picking a name from a metal
band, clearly foreshadows the rock star persona
that would define so much of his career. It wasn't
just a random choice. It was almost destiny.
a signal of the performer he was becoming. Absolutely.
It's an early glimpse into the cross -pollination
of his interests, demonstrating how he intuitively
drew from various forms of entertainment to craft
his persona. He then formed the Sudden Impact
tag team with Lance Storm, and they truly paid
their dues. They wrestled in Norse and Manitoba,
sharing the road with future legends like Adam
Copeland, who we now know as Edge, Jason Riso,
or Christian, and Terry Jarron, better known
as Rhino. They also honed their craft in Calgary's
CNWA and CRMW. This period was invaluable for
developing chemistry, gaining experience, and
forging bonds alongside peers who would also
become industry titans. It's a foundational chapter
in his book of reinvention, just absorbing everything
around him. So that early period sounds like
a crucible for talent, rubbing shoulders with
future stars and really laying the groundwork.
From there, Jericho quickly cast his net wider,
venturing into the global ring. And this is where
his adaptability truly began to shine as he immersed
himself in different wrestling cultures. His
first major international steps took him to Japan,
a territory known for its rigorous, hard -hitting
style. What was that initial Japanese experience
like for him? Oh, he was a baptism by fire, definitely.
And it proved his willingness to step way outside
his comfort zone. In October 1991, Jericho and
Storm, as Sun and Impact, debuted in Japan for
Frontier Martial Arts Wrestling, FMW, as part
of their Super Radical Force to the West Tour.
They faced some truly legendary names in a demanding
environment, including Atsushi Onida, Karzan
Goto, Eiji Iizaki, and Genosuke Honda. It was
a crucial education and a style of wrestling
that was far more physically intense and culturally
distinct to what he'd known in North America.
And he clearly made an impression because Ricky
Fuji, who was trained by Stu Hart himself, invited
them back. All right. Though Storm declined for
the FMW third anniversary show in September 1992,
Jericho went on to team up with Eric Freeze at
Yokohama Stadium, defeating Eiji Azaki and Koji
Nakagawa. This shows he was already building
a reputation and making crucial connections internationally.
Even Storm wasn't there. It speaks to his individual
drive. Absolutely, he was proving his individual
worth. By late 1994, he started competing regularly
for Yannick Chirotinou's wrestling and romance,
or war, as the Lionheart. This persona was about
combining his technical skills with a more charismatic,
heroic edge, a direct evolution from his cowboy
beginnings. He lost the NWA World Middleweight
Championship to Ultimo Dragoon, a title he'd
actually won in Mexico and then later won the
Inaugural War International Junior Heavyweight
Championship from Ghetto in June 1995. only to
lose it back to Ultimo Dragoon the very next
month. Ultimo Dragoon was quite the perennial
rival in those early days, wasn't he? Oh, yeah.
He also competed in the second Super J Cup tournament
in December 1995, showcasing his junior heavyweight
prowess against talents like Hanzo Nakajima and
Wild Pegasus. This exposure to high -level junior
heavyweight wrestling in Japan was incredibly
formative, refining his speed and agility. It
provided crucial experience in a demanding, fast
-paced style, pushing his athletic boundaries.
In 1995, he took another interesting turn, joining
the Fuyuki Gun heel stable as lion do. With Gido,
he won the International Junior Heavyweight Tag
Team Championship, but then lost it back to Lance
Storm and Yuji Yasurouka. This willingness to
play different roles, even as a heel and team
with various partners, demonstrates his early
commitment to versatility, never wanting to be
pitch and hold. He wrestled a total of 24 tours
for war. Think about that. 24 tours. That's an
immense commitment, gaining invaluable international
experience, not just in wrestling, but in cultural
immersion. 24 tours. That's an incredible amount
of dedication. Wow. While he was making waves
in Japan, Jericho also ventured south to Mexico.
In the winter of 1992, he truly leaned into the
lucha libre culture, adopting the names Leon
Duoro, meaning Golden Lion, a name actually chosen
by the fans. Which is cool. And later, Corazon
de Leon, or Lionheart, which would obviously
stick with him. He first wrestled for smaller
promotions in Nuevo León, then in March 1993
with the Universal Reckling Association. How
did this experience in Mexico compare to Japan
and how did it influence his style? Well, it
was a completely different flavor of wrestling,
and he absorbed it all. By April 1993, he was
competing in Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre,
or CMLL, Mexico's oldest promotion. There, he
honed his craft against talents like Silver King,
Negro Casas, and of course, once again, Ultimo
Dregón. He held the NWA World Middleweight Championship
for an impressive 11 months starting in December
1993. This period was absolutely crucial for
absorbing the lucha libre style, which is so
distinct from the strong style or the more traditional
North American approaches. The emphasis on aerial
moves, quick transitions, and masked personas
offered a whole new dimension to his performance
repertoire. So he's got Japan and Mexico under
his belt absorbing all these different styles
and developing new personas, but he wasn't done
yet with North America. In 1994, he reunited
with Lance Storm in Jim Cornett's Smokey Mountain
Wrestling, forming the Thrillseekers. They feuded
with teams like the Heavenly Bodies and Well
Done, giving him a taste of traditional southern
wrestling, which is known for its storytelling
and character work. This really feels like he's
collecting different wrestling dialects, doesn't
it? It's a perfect analogy, yeah. Each territory,
each style, was like learning a new language
of performance. It's a testament to his relentless
drive that he continued to seek out diverse experiences,
each adding a new dimension to his skill set.
Then came a short but incredibly impactful stint
in Extreme Championship Wrestling, or ECW, in
February 1996. This was thanks to some serious
recommendations from Chris Benoit, Dave Meltzer,
and Perry Saturn, and a crucial tape of his match
with Ultimo Dragon, which Mick Foley personally
gave to Paul Heyman. Think of the buzz around
him. A lot of influential names vouching for
him. A lot of heavy hitters indeed. He quickly
made an impact, defeating Rob Van Dam in his
second appearance. He then won the ECW World
Television Championship from Pitbull, hashtag
two, at Hardcore Heaven in June 1996. Though
he lost the title to Shane Douglas in a four
-way dance at Heatwave the following month, his
ECW run, though brief, was a powerful statement.
It showcased his ability to adapt to a more extreme,
gritty style and generated significant buzz,
drawing the attention of the much larger world
championship wrestling, WCW. Yeah, and if we
truly connect this to the bigger picture, his
early years were essentially a master class in
professional development and like global networking.
He wasn't just wrestling, he was collecting experiences,
adapting his body and character to different
demands, and showcasing a willingness to evolve
that would become the defining characteristic
of his entire career. He was picking up different
styles and personas, Leondoro, Lionheart, Super
Liger, even adapting to the hardcore ECW style,
constantly refining his craft and preparing for
the biggest stages. It raises an important question.
What kind of internal drive does it take to be
that nomadic, that absorbent, and that willing
to constantly re -evaluate and rebuild your identity
early on? This period provides so much insight
into the foundation of his chameleon nature.
So, with all that international seasoning and
varied experience, Jericho arrived in World Championship
Wrestling, WCW, in August 1996. A company on
the precipice of huge growth thanks to the NWO.
He debuted by defeating Mr. JL and his televised
debut was against Alex Wright. His pay -per -view
debut was a loss to Chris Spanoi at Fall Brawl,
which interestingly wasn't just a defeat. It
foreshadowed a series of classic, highly technical
rivalries they'd have later. It was almost a
precursor to some of his best work. It really
was. It was a sign of the level of talent he
was now going to be consistently facing. His
initial WCW run saw him navigate the political
landscape, which is famously tricky there. He
faced NWO members like Six and even took on referee
Nick Patrick in a remarkable one -armed match
at World War III, which he won despite the odds,
showing his competitive spirit. He also unsuccessfully
challenged Eddie Guerrero for the United States
heavyweight championship at Super Brawl's the
seventh, marking the beginning of another significant
rivalry that would push his technical limits.
Right. Those early challenges were crucial for
establishing him. But his real breakout came
when he entered the cruiserweight champion era.
He won his first WCW championship, the cruiserweight
title, from six on June 28th, 1997. This opened
the door for some truly memorable character development,
where he began to truly find his voice as a performer.
moving beyond just being a great wrestler. His
Cruiserweight title reign was a proving ground,
certainly, but it also became a canvas for his
character. He defended against Ultimo Dragon,
lost and regained the title from Alex Wright,
and then had a crucial feud with Eddie Guerrero,
again losing and regaining the title. These back
and forth battles were vital for establishing
his credibility, showcasing his technical prowess,
but also allowing him to develop personality
in the ring as he learned to work with these
top tier talents. And this is where we really
start to see wrestling's David Bowie emerge.
At Sold Out in January 1998, he defeated Rey
Mysterio Jr. for his third Cruiserweight Championship,
but it was his actions after the match that absolutely
defined his heel turn. He brutally assaulted
Mysterio's knee with a toolbox, writing him off
TV for six months. It was vicious, completely
unexpected from a cruiserweight, and frankly,
shocking television. How important was that specific
act in changing his trajectory? Oh, that heel
turn was nothing short of pivotal. It wasn't
just a simple turn. It was a total reinvention
of his on -screen persona. He immediately followed
it up by adopting his trophy collector gimmick,
which added layers of arrogance and showmanship.
He'd collect and wear items from the defeated
opponents, Rey Mysterio's knee brace, even did
Guerrero's mask after a mask versus title match
at Super Brawl Eighth, Prince Aiki's Hawaiian
dress, or Disco Inferno's headband. This wasn't
just about winning, it was about humiliation,
about establishing a smug rock star -like persona
that fed off his opponent's failures. It was
theatrical, drew immense heat, and showed an
incredible understanding of how to get under
the audience's skin. And then, of course, came
the legendary rivalry with Dean Malenko, the
man of 1 ,000 holds. Jericho famously claimed
to know the man of 1 ,000 for holds, mocking
Milenko with incredible comedic timing and a
brazen arrogance. On March 30, 1998, on Nitro,
after defeating Marty Gennetti, Jericho pulled
out a long humorous list of his 1 ,004 fictional
holds with nearly every other one being an armbar.
What made that particular segment so brilliant
beyond just the humor? It was brilliant because
it was so self -aware, so meta. It simultaneously
mocked wrestling tropes, highlighted Jericho's
own technical prowess, ironically by listing
non - and cemented his character as a supremely
confident obnoxious heel who could talk the talk
as well as walk the walk. It was pure entertainment
and a master class in character work using humor
to generate legitimate heat. The few deepened
with the infamous Lenny Lane deception, where
Jericho bribed Lane to impersonate him against
Milenko, further cementing his devious nature.
Jericho went on to defeat Milenko at Uncensored,
leading to Milenko's temporary departure, and
Jericho continued his taunts by carrying a portrait
of Milenko to the ring and insulting it nightly.
He was just pouring salt on the wound. He was
a truly detestable villain. And then after Milenko,
disguised as the masked sickloppy, won a battle
royal and defeated Jericho for the title at Slamberry,
which generated one of the of the loudest crowd
reactions in WCW history. Huge pop. Jericho leaned
into, arguably, his most hilarious heel gimmick,
the conspiracy victim. He claimed a vast conspiracy
was afoot, blaming everyone from the WCW locker
room to J .J. Dillon, Ted Turner, and hilariously,
even President Bill Clinton in a Washington,
D .C. vignette. That was pure gold. A fantastic
way to develop an arrogant, paranoid Hila character,
wasn't it? Absolutely. That conspiracy victim
gimmick perfectly tapped into the real -life
booking chaos and perceived favoritism within
WCW at the time. It allowed Jericho to comment
on the internal politics of the company and character,
giving his complaints a layer of authenticity
while making her incredibly entertaining to watch.
He blended reality and fiction masterfully, transforming
real -world frustrations into engaging storytelling.
He regained the title twice, once via DQ against
Milenko and then again from Rey Mysterio Jr.,
but ultimately lost it decisively to Juventud
Guerrero with Milenko as special referee at Roadwild.
The cruiserweight division was indeed a dynamic
place, but it was becoming clear Jericho Star
was already outgrowing it. His run in the cruiserweight
division truly elevated it and showcased his
range. Then he transitioned to the world television
champion picture, winning the title from Stevie
Ray on August 10th, 1998. During this time, he
famously called out WCW world heavyweight champion
Goldberg repeatedly, but they never actually
wrestled, which, as we know, became a significant
point of contention for Jericho and a major career
turning point. Indeed. Jericho later cited Eric
Bischoff, Goldberg and Hulk Hogan's refusal to
book him in a a pay -per -view squash match loss
against Goldberg, which Jericho believed would
be a huge draw, and legitimize him on a bigger
stage, even in defeat as a major reason for leaving
WCW. He felt a valuable opportunity for both
performers was being squandered due to backstage
politics. He lost the TV title to Conan, and
then embarked on a bizarre, memorable feud with
Perry Saturn in a series of strange matches,
including loser must wear a dress bounce and
a dog collar match. It was wild. A dress match.
Only in late 90s WCW could that happen. Ha. After
this, a pivotal decision was made. She signed
with the World Wrestling Federation, or WWF,
on June 30th, 1999. His WCW theme, One Crazed
Anarchist, later even lent his name to a Fozzy
single showing how deeply ingrained these eras
were for him. It's clear that his WCW run, despite
its frustrations in the chaotic booking, was
absolutely critical in forging the incredibly
well -rounded, charismatic, and adaptable character
he would become. This was the launchpad for Y2J.
So after conquering territories and mastering
the heel and WCW, Chris Jericho made the jump
to the WWF, entering the white -hot attitude
era. And what an entrance it was. His iconic
WWF debut was preceded by a countdown to the
new Millennium Clock on WWF programming, a brilliant
tease for wits. Jericho himself was inspired
by seeing a similar clock in a post office, and
Vince McMahon, recognizing the genius, approved
it for his entrance. How crucial was that anticipation
building in setting the stage for Y2J? Oh, that
countdown was nothing short of a masterstroke
of marketing and character introduction. It built
massive anticipation, allowing the audience to
imagine who this mysterious new force would be,
rather than just being told. When he finally
debuted on August 9, 1999, on Raw is War in Chicago,
famously interrupting The Rock, arguably the
biggest talker of the business, he didn't just
arrive, he announced himself. He proclaimed Raw
is Jericho, and that he had come to save the
World Wrestling Federation, introducing his Y2J
moniker, clever play on the omnipresent Y2K bug
fear. The Rock's quick -witted verbal mockery
in response was instant classic television, immediately
establishing Jericho as a top -tier performer
who could go toe -to -toe with the best. That
segment alone cemented him as a force. He made
his in -ring debut as a heel on August 26th on
SmackDown, losing by disqualification to Road
Dogg after powerbombing him through a table.
It was a strong, aggressive introduction. His
first long -term feud was with China for the
WWF Intercontinental Championship, leading to
him winning his first IC title from her at Armageddon
in December 1999. This immediately showed he
was going to be a championship -level talent
in the company. That feud had a unique twist
with him briefly becoming co -champions, a rare
occurrence, before he attained sole champion
status at Roll Rumble 2000. This early period
established his championship pedigree right away.
He then engaged in a memorable feud with Kurt
Angle, losing the IC title but then winning the
European title at WrestleMania 2000 in a triple
threat match. It showed his ability to always
be around the gold even if the titles were changing
hands quickly. He was consistently in the mix
for gold, always relevant. There was even a brief,
albeit unrecognized, WWF Championship reign against
Triple H due to a fast count by referee Earl
Hebner. The company doesn't officially acknowledge
it, but it demonstrated he was absolutely main
event ready. He won his third IC title from Benoit,
lost it back quickly, and then had a grueling
last man standing match lost to Triple H at fully
loaded 2000, despite Stephanie's interference.
These feuds weren't just about win - wins and
losses, they were about building his reputation
as a top -tier performer who could deliver against
anyone. His ability to have compelling matches
and feuds with different styles of wrestlers
was evident throughout this period. He won his
fourth IC title in a ladder match against Chris
Burnoy at Royal Rumble 2001, a match often cited
as a classic. He then successfully defended it
against William Regal at WrestleMania X7, a huge
stage, before losing it to Triple H days later.
Beyond singles competition, he also had significant
tag team success, proving his adaptability. Yes,
he became WWF tag team champion twice, first
with Chris Benoit, defeating Austin and Triple
H in a match where Triple H legitimately tore
his quadriceps. Talk about an intense match.
Crazy match. And then again with The Rock, defeating
the Dudley Boys. He even competed in a triple
threat for Austin's WWF championship at King
of the Ring 2001, where Booker T interfered,
kickstarting the invasion angle. It feels like
he was constantly at the very center of the action,
a utility player who could perform any role asked
of him. That's a great way to put it. Yeah. Heroine,
loyal to the WWF during the invasion storyline,
despite his WCW and ECW past, a strategic move
that further endeared him to the company leadership
and ensured he was positioned as a top star when
the dust settled. This raised his profile significantly
as he was seen as a defender of the WWFs. That
loyalty clearly paid off and it set up an incredible
storyline. He developed a jealousy towards The
Rock, seeing him as someone who hadn't paid his
dues in the same way, which created a fantastic
rivalry. He capitalized on this by winning the
WCW Championship from The Rock at No Mercy in
October 2001 after debuting a new finisher, The
Breakdown, onto a steel chair, his very first
world title. This was a massive career defining
moment signaling his arrival at the absolute
top. And then the culmination, the moment that
etched his name into the history books. He unified
the WWF and world the WCW titles at Vengeance
on December 9, 2001. He defeated Stone Cold Steve
Austin and The Rock on the same night. This made
him the first ever undisputed WWF champion, a
truly historic achievement, unifying the two
major championships from the Monday Night Wars.
This achievement also made him the fourth Grand
Slam champion under the original format, an indicator
of his comprehensive success across multiple
titles. It's hard to overstate the magnitude
of defeating both Austin and Rock in one night
to claim that top spot. Unbelievable. Defeating
two of the biggest stars in wrestling history,
the faces of the Attitude Era, on the same night
to become the champion. He then defended the
undisputed title against The Rock at Royal Rumble
2002 and Austin at No Way Out 2002, solidifying
his reign as the undisputed king. But he eventually
lost the title to Royal Rumble winner Triple
H in the main event of WrestleMania X8 on March
17th, 2002. It was the end of an era, but he'd
already made history. Yeah, even after losing
the top title, his career continued to be marked
by high profile feuds and championships in the
mid 2000s. He was drafted to Smackdown. but quickly
moved back to RAW, a move that speaks to his
strong will and preference for creative control,
as he was apparently unwilling to work for Stephanie
McMahon. He then feuded with Ric Flair, losing
a SummerSlam, and then won his fifth Intercontinental
Championship from Rob Van Dam, only to lose it
back to Kane two weeks later. This rapid title
shifting was a common feature of this era. He
formed a successful tag team with Christian,
winning the World Tag Team Championship, further
showcasing his versatility and ability to connect
with different partners. Then came his involvement
in the Royal Rumble 2003, where he chose entry
Hashtag2 to start against Shawn Michaels, whom
he claimed to be better than. Christian, disguised
as Jericho, attacked Michaels and Jericho eliminated
him, though Michaels later caused Jericho's elimination.
This was pure Jericho mischief, laying the groundwork
for a truly epic rivalry. That setup perfectly
fueled their iconic rivalry. He defeated Jeff
Hardy at No Way Out, but ultimately lost to Shawn
Michaels at WrestleMania IXX. He delivered a
low blow post -match as a sign of disrespect,
refusing to let Michaels have the last word.
This led directly to his notorious Goldberg feud
in 2003, fueled by Goldberg's past refusal to
fight him in WCW. Jericho used his highlight
reel segment, his own talk show, to verbally
dismantle Goldberg. And the infamous limousine
incident storyline where Lance Storm was the
assailant and Jericho the conspirator deepened
the animosity. He eventually lost to Goldberg
at Bad Blood, but the feud itself was highly
personal and memorable. What a saga. He won his
sixth Intercontinental title from RVD, immediately
losing it back in a steel cage. Then came the
Trish Stratus and Christian love triangle, a
classic WWE soap opera, where his romance with
Trish turned out to be a bet with Christian.
Stratus' betrayal led to a match at WrestleMania
XX in 2004, which Jericho lost. He won a handicap
rematch at Backlash, and then, always seeking
gold, captured a record -breaking seventh Intercontinental
Championship from Christian and a ladder match
at Unforgiven in September 2004. breaking Jeff
Jarrett's long -standing record. However, he
lost it to Shelton Benjamin at Taboo Tuesday,
once again showcasing the competitive nature
of that title. This period truly highlights his
ability to stay relevant and collect championships,
demonstrating that he was constantly chasing
new accomplishments. And speaking of innovation,
Jericho made a monumental, often overlooked contribution
to the industry. He suggested the concept of
the Money in the Bank ladder match. You know,
the multi -person ladder match where a briefcase
containing a contract for a world title shot
suspended above the ring. He even competed in
the inaugural one at WrestleMania 21 in 2005,
which Edge won. This is a monumental contribution
to the industry, literally shaping future WrestleMania
events and annual storylines for years to come.
He literally changed the game with that innovation.
Wow. He then feuded with John Cena, turning heel
by betraying Cena, showing he could flip his
character at will. He lost a You're Fired match
for the WWE Championship to Cena, leading to
his contractual departure on August 25, 2005.
It was a dramatic exit, setting the stage for
his next act. This period highlights the immense
trust the company placed in him. He was not just
a champion, not just a performer, but a unifier,
literally changing the landscape of the championship
lineage and even innovating match concepts like
money in the bank. It makes you wonder, how many
wrestlers can truly claim to have shaped the
industry in such a fundamental way, not just
with their performances, but with their character
innovations and their creative input? Very few.
Very, very few. So after a couple years away,
focusing on his burgeoning music career with
Fozzy, Chris Jericho made a much -anticipated
return to WWE. And this wasn't just any return.
It was built up with cryptic 15 -second binary
code videos that ran for weeks, referencing The
Matrix and biblical links, generating massive,
massive hype. It was a masterclass in building
anticipation, wasn't it? Absolutely. That viral
marketing campaign was brilliantly executed,
a modern approach to a classic wrestling reveal.
He returned as a face on November 19th, 2007,
interrupting Randy Orton, declaring his intention
to save WWE fans from Orton's villainy. He debuted
his Codebreaker finisher, immediately giving
him a new impactful move that became synonymous
with his return. This wasn't just a reappearance,
it was a total reinvention of his entrance, his
offense, and his entire motivation. He quickly
reestablished himself, feuding with Randy Orton
and JBL. He then won his record eighth Intercontinental
Championship from Jeff Hardy in March 2008, a
testament to his consistent main event presence
and his ability to collect gold. But then came
one of the most acclaimed, most talked about
feuds of his entire career, one that truly elevated
him to another level of character work. The iconic
Shawn Michaels feud in 2008. Oh, yeah. It began
subtly when Jericho was appointed special guest
referee from Michaels versus Bautista at Backlash,
where Michaels feigned a knee injury to win.
Jericho, ever the astute observer, accused Michaels
of cheating. He later apologized, but Michaels
admitted the ruse, then attacked Jericho. It
was a classic slow burn, a psychological drama
that built week after week. And this is where
we really see that David Bowie comparison shine
again, a complete character overhaul. On June
9, 2008, Jericho brutally attacked Michaels on
the highlight reel with a low blow and sent him
crashing through the Jeritron 6000, damaging
Michaels' eye. This shocking, deeply personal
act cemented his heel turn and was so impactful
it was named Feud of the Year by both Pro Wrestling
Illustrated and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
It was truly compelling, gritty, and deeply personal.
That feud redefined Jericho's character once
again, shifting him from a charismatic face to
a cold, calculating, suit -wearing villain. He
adopted this new persona, inspired by Anton Shiger
from No Country for Old Men and legendary wrestler
Nick Bachwinkle, presenting a more sophisticated,
almost detached, yet terrifying heel. He defeated
Michaels at the Great American Bash by deliberately
attacking his injured eye, and then escalated
the rivalry further by punching Michaels' wife
Rebecca at SummerSlam, leading to an unsanctioned
match at Unforgiven. The emotional stakes were
incredibly high, demonstrating his willingness
to push boundaries for character development.
The emotional stakes were sky high, and it made
for riveting television. Later that very night,
in a surprising turn of events, Jericho won his
first world heavyweight championship at Unforgiven
as a last -minute replacement for CM Punk in
a championship scramble match. This was a huge,
unexpected moment, cementing him at the very
top of the card as a world champion once again,
proving his longevity and adaptability. It's
exactly. He then had a brutal ladder match against
Michaels at No Mercy, which he won, and although
he lost the title to Batista, he regained it
just eight days later in his steel cage match
on Raw. He lost to John Cena at Survivor Series,
but ended the year by winning the prestigious
2008 Superstar of the Year Slammy. This period
showcased his ability to thrive in the main event,
his continued character evolution, and his mastery
of generating genuine heat. He further cemented
his legend status by feuding with veteran wrestlers
like Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat, Jimmy Snuka,
and Roddy Piper, even fighting actor Mickey Rourke
at WrestleMania 25. He was truly embracing his
role as a legend challenging other legends, a
gatekeeper of sorts. Then came a new tag team
dynamic with Jera Show. That tag team with Edge,
and later with Big Show. was another successful
reinvention, demonstrating his ability to elevate
a tag team while still being a main event player.
He became the first wrestler to win every original
Grand Slam eligible championship with Edge. And
when Edge was injured, Big Show replaced him,
forming Jerry Show, which dominated and won the
2009 Tag Team of the Year Slammy. This showcased
his ability to adapt and form successful, compelling
alliances, always staying fresh. Jericho was
dominant, but they eventually lost the unified
tag titles to D -Generation X, Shawn Michaels,
and Triple H in a brutal TLC match. Jericho then
won his third World Heavyweight Championship
in an Elimination Chamber match and successfully
defeated Edge to retain it at WrestleMania X's
guest before losing it to Jack Swagger via Money
in the Bank cash -in. It's a classic way for
a champion to lose without being pinned. Yeah,
it predicts a champ. His career continued to
evolve after his 2010 kayfabe departure, explained
by a punt to the head from Randy Orton, allowing
him to step away gracefully for other projects.
His third WWE run, from 2011 to 2018, brought
further reinventions, starting with those now
-familiar cryptic vignettes once again before
his return for the Royal Rumble 2012. It became
his signature way of coming back. This set up
his incredibly intense feud with WWE Champion
CM Punk over the Best in the World moniker. Jericho
leaned into a deeply personal approach, using
insults about Punk's family, trying to get inside
his head. He lost to Punk at WrestleMania XE8
in Extreme Rules, but those matches were critically
acclaimed and further solidified his ability
to create compelling, high stakes feuds. and
have missteps and face consequences. He continued
with sporadic feuds with Dolph Ziggler, Ryback,
and Fandango, often taking several hiatuses for
Fozzy tours, showing his commitment to both his
passions. And then came arguably his most popular
gimmick in years, the list of Jericho. After
returning full time on Raw in January 2016 and
initially feuding with AJ Styles, he formed an
unlikely yet incredibly compelling alliance with
Kevin Owens, ultimately helping him win the WWE
Universal Championship. This is when the magic
truly happened, right? The list took on a life
of its own. It absolutely did. The list of Jericho
became an absolute phenomenon. He would dramatically
pull out a clipboard and write down names of
anyone who bothered him, exclaiming, you just
made the list. It was a simple yet ingenious
tool that combined comedy, arrogance, and genuine
heel heat. It became hugely popular and critically
acclaimed as a highlight of Raw, demonstrating
his deep understanding of audience engagement
and character work, creating a simple yet effective
tool for comedy and storytelling. It shows that
sometimes the simplest ideas, executed perfectly,
can become iconic. The list was everywhere, fan
signs, merchandise. He continued his winning
ways, capturing the WWE United States Championship
from Roman Reigns in January 2017, becoming a
Grand Slam winner under the current format, showing
he could win any title at any time. He was even
suspended above the ring in a shark cage during
Owens' Universal title defense at Royal Rumble
2017. Pure, classic heel gold, trying to influence
the match from above. on Raw in February 2017
was a dramatic and heartbreaking turning point.
Jericho hosted it for Owens, genuinely believing
in their friendship, only for Owens to brutally
attack him, ending their alliance in a shocking
betrayal that instantly turned Jericho face again.
It was a segment that sent shockwaves through
the wrestling world and elevated both characters
through the sheer emotional investment it generated.
He immediately sought revenge, causing Owens
to lose the Universal Championship to Goldberg
at Fastlane. He then lost the US title to Owens
at WrestleMania 33, regained it at Payback, and
then, in a very dramatic exit, lost it back to
Owens two nights later on Smackdown Live, being
stretchered out. This was a dramatic farewell,
but not his final one in wrestling. His last
WWE in -ring appearance for this run was at the
Greatest Royal Rumble in April 2018. His reason
for departure is significant and speaks to his
unwavering belief in himself and his creative
vision. Jericho later revealed an incident at
WrestleMania 33 in 2017 where his highly anticipated
UF title match against Kevin Owens, which he
believed should have been higher up the card,
was placed second on the card by Vince McMahon.
This decision, he stated, essentially led him
to finalize his decision to seek work elsewhere
after 15 years with WWE. This extensive WWE career
is remarkable, not just for the sheer number
of championships, a record nine intercontinental
titles, the first undisputed WWF champion, but
for his consistent ability to adapt and connect.
The list of Jericho is a prime example of someone
who deeply understands audience engagement and
character work, creating a phenomenon out of
a simple notebook. It truly raises an important
question. How many wrestlers can claim to have
shaped the industry in such a fundamental way,
not just with their performances, but with their
character innovations and willingness to push
for creative respect? So Chris Jericho's monumental
WWE run concludes. But his story, as we've seen,
is far from over. This is where he truly cemented
his legacy as a global wrestling icon, unafraid
to explore new territories and challenge conventional
wisdom. In November 2017, he made a truly shocking
return to New Japan Pro Wrestling, NJPW, in a
pre -taped vignette challenging Kenny Omega to
Alpha vs. Omega at Wrestle Kingdom 12. This was
his first non -WWE match since 1999, nearly two
decades. What made this return so groundbreaking?
It was absolutely monumental, and it shattered
a perceived barrier between major promotions.
While some sources suggested Dave Meltzer reported
Jericho as a free agent, and JPW also stated
Vince McMahon gave permission, highlighting the
delicate dance between companies. Regardless
of the specifics, it was a game -changer, because
it showed a top -tier WWE star could and would
work elsewhere on a major stage. Although Jericho
lost to Omega, the match received a rare five
-star rating from Dave Meltzer Jericho's first
ever. This proved, unequivocally, that he could
still deliver at the absolute highest level,
even outside his comfort zone. The five -star
match outside of WWE at that stage in his career,
truly incredible. He wasn't done with NJPW either.
He continued his run, winning the IWGP Intercontinental
Championship from Tetsuya Naito at Dominion 6
.9, becoming the first person to hold both the
WWE and IWGP Intercontinental titles. This wasn't
just another belt. It was a huge statement about
his global reach and his ability to conquer any
promotion's top prizes. It undeniably solidified
his global icon status. He then lost the IWGP
IC. title back to Naito at Russell Kingdom 13.
He also faced Kazuchika Okada for the IWGP Heavyweight
Championship, one of the most prestigious titles
in the world, and defeated Hiroshi Tanahashi
at Russell Kingdom 14. These high -profile matches
against NJPW's top stars cemented his status
as an international draw and proved his in -ring
quality had not diminished even as he approached
50. He wasn't just working for major promotions
either. He was also active on the independent
circuit, showing his connection to the broader
wrestling community. In September 2018, he made
a surprise appearance at All In, the landmark
independent show promoted by Cody and the Young
Bucks that predated AEW. Disguised as Penta L0,
he attacked Kenny Omega to promote his upcoming
cruise, showing his knack for creative marketing
and building buzz outside of established corporate
structures. Chris Jericho's Rock N Wrestling
Rager at Sea, launched in 2018, is a perfect
example of his entrepreneurial spirit and ability
to combine his passions. It literally combines
rock and wrestling, featuring live bands, artist
activities, and wrestling tournaments. Multiple
cruises have followed, blending his two passions
perfectly and creating a unique fan experience.
He also made surprise appearances for pro wrestling
gorilla, PWG Battle of Los Angeles 2023 with
the Jericho Appreciation Society, Revolution
Pro Wrestling attacking Will Ospreay, and even
Vietnam Pro Wrestling showing he's still connected
to the broader wrestling world. So you look at
all these ventures, from NJPW to independent
shows and his own crews, and you see a pattern.
From being a trailblazer in NJPW and ECW, to
shaping the identity of WWE in the attitude era,
and now taking on these new challenges, Jericho
has proven that reinvention isn't just a strategy,
it's his superpower. In January 2019, he made
another monumental move, making a surprise appearance
at AEW's media event and signing a three -year
full -time contract. This was a massive signing
for the fledgling promotion, lending instant
credibility. His signing instantly gave AEW a
proven main event star, a household name who
could draw viewers and legitimize a brand new
wrestling company. He wasted no time in making
an impact. He defeated Kenny Omega at Double
or Nothing in May 2019, and then, in another
historic first, became the inaugural AEW World
Champion by defeating Adam Page at All Out in
August 2019. Being the first champion of a major
new promotion is a significant part of any company's
history and permanently etched his name into
AEW's foundation. And he didn't just win the
title. He immediately formed a powerful stable,
The Inner Circle, on the premiere of Dynamite
on October 2, 2019. With Sammy Guevara, Jake
Hager, Santana, and Orquiz, they became a dominant
force defending his title against Darby Allen,
Cody, and Scorpio Sky. He eventually lost the
AEW World Championship to Jon Moxley at Revolution
in February 2020. But the Inner Circle continued
to be a central storyline, introducing new stars
to a wider audience. The Inner Circle was absolutely
crucial for establishing AEW's early identity
and showcasing new, younger talent alongside
a seasoned veteran like Cherico. They feuded
with the elite, including a remarkable stadium
stampede match victory at Double or Nothing,
a match that embraced cinematic wrestling during
the pandemic. He also had a notable comedic rivalry
with Orange Cassidy, losing a mimosa mayhem match
at All Out. His ability to work with vastly different
character types and still make it compelling
is truly remarkable, showing his range. Then
came the epic storyline feud with MJF, a long
-term psychological battle that saw MJF eventually
join the Inner Circle after defeating Jericho
at Full Gear in November 2020. This storyline
was a slow -burn masterpiece, full of twists
and turns, with MJF eventually betraying and
leaving the Inner Circle to form his own rival
stable, the Pinnacle. That betrayal led to brutal
faction warfare, including a blood and guts match
loss for the Inner Circle, and a stadium stampede
victory at Double or Nothing, another cinematic
spectacle. Jericho then embarked on the Labors
of Jericho series, a throwback to classic wrestling
tropes, where he had to defeat Shawn Spears,
Nick Gage, Juventud Guerrero, and Wardlow to
get another match with MJF. He ultimately defeated
MJF at All Out 2021 to save his career, showcasing
his longevity and storytelling prowess even in
high stakes matches, pulling out all the stops.
He just kept going, reinventing. After the Inner
Circle, he transitioned into a new persona and
formed the Jericho Appreciation Society, or JAS,
in 2022. He turned heel again by attacking Eddie
Kingston, Santana, and Ortiz, forming the JAS
with 2 .0 and Daniel Garcia, rebranding them
as sports entertainers. They feuded with the
Blackpool Combat Club and Eddie Kingston in highly
violent matches, including an Anarchy in the
Arena victory and a barbed wire death match win.
sports entertainers over wrestlers, was another
example of his meta -commentary on the industry,
deliberately poking fun at the terminology often
used by WWE and generating tremendous heat. He
then achieved another major milestone, defeating
Claudio Castagnoli at Dynamite, Grand Slam in
September 2022 to win the ROH World Championship.
He proudly dubbed himself The Ocho, referring
to his eighth recognized world title. And he
wasn't just performing, he was shaping the future.
He signed a contract extension with AEW through
2025, adding roles as a coach and creative consultant,
a true veteran contributing behind the scenes.
He successfully defended the ROH title against
former ROH champions like Dalton Castle, Colt
Cabana, Tomohiro Ishii, and Bandido, further
elevating that championship and giving it a high
-profile reign. His reign eventually ended when
he lost the ROH World Championship back to Castagnoli
at Final Battle. He then feuded with with Ricky
Starks and Adam Cole losing an unsanctioned match
at double or nothing. The JAS effectively disbanded
when members walked out due to his association
with Don Callis, leading to his next evolution
and further character changes. He then reformed
Le Sex Gods with Sammy Guevara, a popular tag
team, but a loss to Will Ospreay at All In. London
led to Guevara turning on Jericho and joining
the Don Callis family, turning Jericho face once
again, showing that his allegiances are constantly
shifting. He formed the Golden Jets with Kenny
Omega to fight the Callis family, but Omega's
injury temporarily ended that team. The feud
with the Don Callis family eventually concluded,
and in February 2024, Jericho revived his Lionheart
persona, a deliberate nod to his earlier career,
showing he can always go back to his roots and
re -energize a classic gimmick. This continuous
revisiting and reimagining of past gimmicks is
a key part of his appeal and his chameleon nature.
And then came perhaps his most meta and brilliant
character yet, the Learning Tree. In March 2024,
he attempted to mentor Hook, which surprisingly
led to a match at Dynasty where Jericho won the
FTW Championship. He immediately renamed it the
For the World Championship and dumped himself
the Learning Tree, portraying a delusional mentor.
This was a sarcastic, genius reference to online
criticism about his constant presence on AEW,
showing his ability to turn criticism into character
and make himself the butt of his own joke. That
was truly a brilliant metagymic, a performer
so self -aware they could satirize their own
public perception. He successfully defended the
FTW title with assistance from Big Bill and Brian
Keith, who joined the learning tree, adding layers
to the group. He then lost the FTW title to hook
it all in, bringing that reign to an end. But
the story didn't end there. He continued his
championship quest, winning his second ROH World
Championship, his ninth overall world title,
for Mark Briscoe in a ladder war with help from
Big Bill, dubbing himself the Nouve or the nine
-time world champion. He just keeps collecting
championships and redefining what it means to
be a veteran in this business. He defended the
ROH title against Tomohiro Ishii and Mac Cardona,
but then lost it to Bandido in a title versus
mask match at Dynasty 2025 in a truly high -spakes
encounter. After this loss, the learning tree
disbanded as Jericho blamed his loss on Big Bill
and Brian Keith, stating he'd leave until they
changed. From being a trailblazer in NJPW and
ECW to shaping the identity of WWE in the attitude
era and now as a founding pillar and multiple
-time champion in AEW, it's clear Jericho has
proven that reinvention isn't just a strategy,
it's his superpower. It's truly astonishing,
isn't it? Chris Jericho's career in wrestling
alone is legendary, but what truly sets him apart,
cementing his status as a multi -platform phenomenon,
is his incredible success beyond the ropes. He's
not just a wrestler, he's a true multi -hyphenate
entertainer, and his music career with Fozzy
is a huge integral part of that identity. Yeah,
and if we connect this to the bigger picture,
Jericho's career outside of wrestling isn't just
a side It's an authentic extension of his rock
star persona and his innate ability to connect
with an audience across different mediums. He's
been the lead vocalist of Fozzy since 1999, almost
as long as his WWE career. Initially, the band
was known primarily for cover versions, but they
wisely and effectively shifted to primarily original
material from their third album, All That Remains,
released in 2005, Onward. This transition was
crucial for their artistic credibility. That
transition from covers to original music is a
massive artistic and commercial step for any
band. And Fozzy didn't just make that leap, they
soared. They've released seven studio albums,
including Fozzy, Judas, and Boombox. And Judas
actually achieved a gold certification by the
RIAA in 2022, which is a monumental accomplishment
for any band, let alone one fronted by a professional
wrestler. It's not just a side project, it's
a legitimately successful rock band. He also
made guest appearances on Tribb - albums like
Iron Maiden's The Evil That Men Do, and even
lent his vocals to Dream Theater's album Repentance,
showing respect from his peers. That kind of
recognition from the music industry, from both
sales and critical collaborations, really speaks
volumes about his talent as a vocalist and his
dedication to music. And it wasn't just performing,
he was immersed in the music scene even earlier,
writing a monthly column for Metal Edge magazine
in the mid -1990s focusing on heavy metal. He
also hosted his weekly XM satellite radio show
The Rock of Jericho starting in 2005. He's truly
lived and breathed the rock star life, making
it a genuine part of his identity, not just a
gimmick. Absolutely. Beyond music, he's also
a New York Times best -selling author, having
penned four autobiographies. A Lion's Tale covers
his life up to his pivotal WWE debut. Undisputed
Chronicles is his incredible WWE career. The
Best in the World shares untold stories of his
Save Us era, Fawzi, and his returns. And No,
is a four -letter word, offers 20 valuable career
lessons. These books don't just recount facts,
they offer incredible insight into his mindset,
his approach to business, and his unique journey.
His literary output demonstrates an intellectual
curiosity and a strong desire to share his experiences
and lessons learned, not just perform them. Beyond
that, he's a seasoned actor in film and television,
embracing the diverse opportunities available
to him. His filmography includes appearances
in Android Apocalypse. A notable comedic turn
is Frank Corver in MacGruber. Loved him in that.
Sharknado 3 and a surprisingly creepy role in
Terrifier 2, with upcoming appearances in Darkmatch
and Terrifier 3. He's not afraid to take on genre
roles and expand his acting range. And his television
presence is just as extensive. He was a contributor
to VH1 pop culture shows like Best Week Ever
and I Love the 80s, showing his encyclopedic
knowledge of pop culture and even hosted VH1's
100 most shocking music moments. He hosted the
ABC game show Downfall and the sci -fi robot
combat show Robot Combat League, proving his
versatility as a TV personality. One of his most
public non -wrestling appearances was competing
on Dancing with the Stars in 2011 with Sheryl
Burke, which generated significant mainstream
publicity and introduced him to an entirely new
audience, including an interview with Jay Leno.
He also guest starred on Disney XD's Erin Stone
and is the current perfectly cast narrator for
Dark Side of the Ring. Oh, yeah, perfect fit.
Most recently, he competed as bride in season
eight of The Masked Singer in 2022, showcasing
his incredible versatility as a performer and
vocalist, completely embracing the camp of it.
And he even starred as the lead actor in the
comedy web series. But I'm Chris Jericho. which
was loosely based on his life as a former wrestler
trying to make it as an actor. He's always been
able to poke fun at himself and his career journey,
a sign of his confidence and self -awareness.
His entrepreneurial spirit also extends powerfully
to digital media. He launched his own highly
successful podcast Talk is Jericho in December
2013, featuring interviews with wrestlers, rock
musicians, and even paranormal experts showcasing
his eclectic interests. It initially aired on
podcast own before moving to Westwood and a major
syndicator. He also hosted live with Chris Jericho
on WWE Network in 2015 with guests like John
Cena and Stephanie McMahon bridging the gap between
his wrestling and interview work. Though it's
interesting to note that after signing with AEW,
he was no longer allowed to have WWE performers
as guests on his podcast, a clear sign of the
competitive landscape. He also launched his own
dirt sheet website, WebbiesJericho .com in 2019,
dedicated to the memory of Axel Rotten. And of
course, his truly innovative crews, Chris Jericho's
rock and wrestling rager at sea launched in 2017
is the ultimate manifestation of his brand. The
cruise is a brilliant fusion of his passions,
combining rock and wrestling with live bands,
artist activities, and even wrestling tournaments.
Multiple cruises have been incredibly successful,
proving his ability to monetize his brand in
innovative ways and create a unique interactive
experience for his fans. This truly showcases
his ability to create a multi -platform entertainment
empire that integrates his diverse interests.
Beyond his public persona and vast entertainment
empire, there are details of his personal life
and philanthropy that paint a fuller picture
of him. man. He married Jessica Lockhart in 2000,
and they reside in Odessa, Florida, with their
three children, son Ash and identical twin daughters,
Sierra and Cheyenne. All three have even been
guests on his podcast, showing a very open and
connected family life. He owns three cats and
is reportedly a Christian, with various tattoos
reflecting his life and career, including his
wife's name, Fawzi's F logo, and artwork from
his Sin and Bones album. There was a notable
incident in 2010 when he was arrested with Gregory
Helms after leaving a bar, with Christian and
CM Punk bailing them out a glimpse into the camaraderie
and occasional mischief of life on the road.
He's also a co -owner of a D1 sports training
and therapy facility in Tampa since 2012, showing
diverse business interests beyond entertainment.
And in a fun detail, he's a fan of the Japanese
convenience store chain Lawson, which he frequented
during his wrestling tours in the 1990s and still
visits today. But most importantly, his charitable
work showcases his genuine generosity. He donated
twenty five hundred dollars to Alberta Forest
Fire victims with Kevin Owens and Tyler Breeze
and fifteen hundred dollars for Brian Knopf's
knee surgery, helping out a wrestling legend.
And in twenty twenty three, after Buffalo Bills
player Damar Hamlin's on field collapse, Jericho
initially donated five thousand dollars to Hamlin's
church. and then, in a moment of self -deprecating
humor and further generosity, another $5 ,000
after misspelling his own name in the original
donation, bringing his total to $10 ,000. These
acts of generosity are important context, demonstrating
a character that extends beyond the ring. If
we truly connect this to the bigger picture,
Jericho's career outside of wrestling isn't just
a sideline. It's an intentional, successful expansion
of his rock star persona, and his innate ability
to connect with an audience. His podcasts, books,
films, and even his cruises demonstrate an entrepreneurial
spirit and a deep understanding of his fan base,
truly making him a multi -platform entertainer.
It makes you wonder what other contemporary performers
have managed to build such a diverse, integrated
empire across so many creative fields, not just
dabbling, but achieving significant success in
each. What an incredible journey we've charted.
It's abundantly clear that Chris Jericho is far
more than just a wrestler. He is truly the undisputed
chameleon of entertainment, a modern -day Renaissance
man in spandex. He's noted for his over -the
-top rock star persona, his unparalleled in -ring
technical prowess, and that constant relentless
ability to reinvent his character throughout
his career. He truly is. Hacy Joyner of ESPN
famously dubbed him Wrestling's David Bowie,
an analogy that perfectly captures his consistent
character reinvention and adaptability, always
shedding one skin for another, always staying
ahead of the curve. He's consistently named one
of the greatest professional wrestlers of all
time by journalists from Pro Wrestling .net,
Pro Wrestling Torch, ESPN, the Miami Herald TV
Guide, and many others attest to his undeniable
impact. Todd Martin of Pro Wrestling Torch placed
him in a lofty category alongside legends like
Randy Savage, Ricky Steamboat, Ted Dibius, and
Dory Funk Jr., some elite company. He's been
included in greatest wrestlers lists by Sports
Illustrated, IGN, Muscle and Fitness, and Metro
New York. The critical consensus is overwhelming.
His ability on the microphone, his promo skills
are legendary, often cited as being as important
as his in -ring work. He was voted best on interviews
for the 2000s decade by Wrestling Observer newsletter
readers, a huge honor given the incredible talent
of that era. This coincided with his induction
into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of
Fame in 2010, marking him as an industry legend
for future generations. And the fans absolutely
agree. They voted him the greatest WWE Intercontinental
Champion of all time in a 2013 WWE poll, a landslide
63 % victory over other icons like Mr. Perfect
and the Honky Tonk Man. This speaks to the depth
of his connection with the audience and how much
his reigns resonated. His peers' endorsements
are equally powerful, if not more so. Kurt Angle,
another multi -time world champion, called him
the single greatest performer of all time. Stone
Cold? Steve Austin, arguably the biggest star
ever, praised his dynamic promos and in -ring
work, arguing he's firmly in the top 10. Kenny
Omega, his opponent in NJPW and AEW, stated Jericho
has a legit argument for being the best of all
time, due to his success across so many different
territories and eras. John Moxley, another modern
legend, echoed that, saying, Jericho is really
making a case for being the greatest of all time,
breaking new barriers still here in 2020. Kevin
Owens always looked up to him, and The Miz said
he was part of a generation who sought to emulate
Jericho. Even WWE itself, his former employer,
declared him a marquee draw with a reputation
as one of the best ever and one of the 10 most
prolific pay -per -view performers in company
history as of 2019. It's truly universal acclaim.
His impact on All League Wrestling, AEW, is particularly
noteworthy and cannot be overstated. His role
is often compared to Terry Funk in ECW, an experienced
veteran bringing instant credibility and mainstream
recognition to a younger Upscar promotion. He's
credited as a key attraction for Dynamite, leading
to his nickname The Demogod, for consistently
delivering high viewership in key demographics,
proving his drawing power even later in his career.
He was voted best box office draw by one readers
in 2019, underscoring his continued ability to
put eyes on the product. His hometown has also
recognized his immense achievements, a truly
heartwarming validation of his global impact.
He was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II of Platinum
Jubilee Medal in 2023 by Manitoba's premier and
a portion of Winnipeg's Wordsworth Way where
he grew up was renamed Chris Jericho Way in March
2023. He received the keys to the city of Winnipeg
and the Order of the Buffalo Hunt in 2004 for
his achievements and charity work. These are
significant civic honors, celebrating him as
a true hometown hero. And finally, let's just
touch upon that absolutely staggering championship
and accomplishment list, which truly highlights
his diversity and dominance. He has held nine
world titles across different promotions. Nine.
Including 1x Undisputed WBGF Champion, 3x World
Heavyweight Champion, 1x Inaugural AEW World
Champion, and 2x ROH World Champion. He's also
held the record 10 Intercontinental titles, including
9x WWF WWE and 1x IWGP. Think about that, 19
major championships across multiple companies.
And that's not even all. He has 4x WCW Cruiserweight,
1x ECW World Television, 1x WCW World Television,
2x WWE United States, 1x WWF European, 1x WWF
Hardcore, and 1x FTW Championship, plus seven
tag team titles across various promotions. He's
a fourth Grand Slam champion under the original
format and a Grand Slam winner under the current
format, a testament to his complete dominance
across every division imaginable. He has also
accumulated numerous industry awards, including
multiple Slammy Awards, War Achievements, NWA
World Middleweight, and numerous Wrestling Observer
Newsletter awards like Wrestle of the Year, 2008
-2009 -2019, Best on Interviews, Feud of the
Year, 2008 vs. Shawn Michaels, and Match of the
Year, 2008 Latter Match vs. Michaels. This really
does raise an important question. Is there truly
anyone else in professional wrestling who can
claim such an extensive, varied, and universally
acclaimed career, not just within the ring, but
across so many creative and commercial ventures?
His longevity, his relevance, and his continuous
evolution are almost unmatched. Hashtag tag tag
outro. We've journeyed through the incredible
trajectory of Chris Jericho from his humble beginnings
in Winnipeg learning the ropes and absorbing
styles to becoming the lion heart in Japan and
Mexico. We saw him blossom into the man of 1004
holds in WCW, transform into the iconic Y2J phenomenon
and the very first undisputed WWF champion, the
architect of the list in WWE and then later a
founding father and multiple time champion in
AEW. His career is truly a master class in adapting
and relentlessly creating and in consistently
connecting with audiences across multiple generations
and diverse entertainment platforms. He truly
embodies the spirit of an artist who refuses
to stagnate, always looking for the next canvas
to paint on, the next character to inhabit, and
the next challenge to conquer. His evolution
isn't just a series of changes, it's a profound
narrative in itself, a testament to what's possible
when immense talent meets an insatiable drive
for innovation and a deep intuitive understanding
of human connection. He truly lives up to that
wrestling's David Bowie moniker. Jericho's continuous
evolution, his willingness to shed old skins
and embrace new challenges, isn't just about
wrestling or music or acting. It's a powerful
blueprint for anyone looking to stay relevant,
stay passionate, and frankly stay excited in
their chosen field no matter how long they've
been at it. So what might Chris Jericho's ongoing
saga teach you about embracing change, cultivating
creativity, and constantly seeking new mountains
to climb in your own life? Which hearted territory
might he conquer next, and how will that influence
the next generation of performers, inspiring
them to be more than just one thing? That's a
question worth pondering.