The Return of The Wizard: Chris Jericho’s Iconic Gimmick Resurfaces on AEW Dynamite
Chris Jericho, a veteran of the wrestling world, has consistently captivated audiences with his dynamic personas and evolving gimmicks. On a recent episode of AEW Dynamite, Jericho surprised fans by resurrecting one of his most popular personas—The Wizard.1
This return has injected fresh excitement into AEW programming and left fans eagerly anticipating what’s next for the legendary wrestler.
Table of Contents
The Wizard Gimmick: A Brief History
The Wizard gimmick, characterized by Jericho’s ability to seemingly throw fireballs at his opponents, became a memorable aspect of his early days in AEW.
This persona allowed Jericho to blend his theatrical flair with his wrestling prowess, creating a character that was both entertaining and formidable. The return of The Wizard marks a nostalgic yet thrilling development for long-time fans and new viewers alike.
A Dramatic Comeback on Dynamite
The return of The Wizard gimmick on AEW Dynamite was nothing short of dramatic. Jericho made a series of bold moves that evening, showcasing his command of the ring and his ability to control the narrative.
One of the standout moments was his decisive action of kicking Taz off the commentary table, asserting his dominance and taking Taz’s place. This unexpected move set the tone for what would be a night of surprises and intense action.
Decimating HOOK: A Statement of Power
Jericho’s return as The Wizard reached its peak when he confronted former FTW Champion HOOK. In a display of strength and strategic planning, Jericho, with the help of Big Bill, put HOOK through a table.2
This act not only demonstrated Jericho’s continued physical prowess but also his ability to outthink and outmaneuver his opponents. It was a statement of power that left a significant impact on both the audience and the AEW roster.
The Learning Tree and Jericho’s Influence
The resurgence of The Wizard gimmick is also a testament to Jericho’s enduring influence within AEW. As a member of The Learning Tree, Jericho has been instrumental in shaping the careers of younger wrestlers, offering guidance, and sharing his vast knowledge of the industry.
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The return of one of his most beloved personas underscores his role as both a mentor and a formidable competitor within AEW.
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The Wizard Returns: Chris Jericho’s Iconic Gimmick Revived on AEW Dynamite
Chris Jericho, an iconic figure in professional wrestling, has once again demonstrated his ability to captivate audiences by resurrecting one of his most memorable personas—The Wizard. On a recent episode of AEW Dynamite, Jericho reintroduced this gimmick, much to the delight and surprise of fans.3
This move not only showcased his theatrical flair but also set the stage for an intense rivalry with HOOK, promising exciting developments in the weeks to come.
The Wizard Gimmick: A Blend of Theatrics and Wrestling Prowess
The Wizard gimmick, characterized by Jericho’s dramatic ability to throw fireballs at his opponents, first gained popularity during his early days in AEW.
This persona allowed Jericho to blend his love for theatrics with his wrestling skills, creating a character that was both entertaining and formidable. The return of The Wizard marks a nostalgic yet thrilling development for AEW fans.
A Bold Return: Fireball Attack on HOOK
Jericho’s reintroduction of The Wizard persona was marked by a dramatic backstage assault on HOOK, where he seemingly threw a fireball at the former FTW Champion.
This act was a clear statement of intent from Jericho, indicating that his character might take on a more serious and aggressive tone moving forward. The attack not only reignited their rivalry but also left fans eager to see what Jericho’s next move would be.
The Learning Tree: Turning a New Page
- As a member of The Learning Tree, Jericho has played a pivotal role in mentoring younger wrestlers and shaping their careers.
- The return of The Wizard gimmick could signify a new chapter for The Learning Tree, potentially leading to more intense and dramatic storylines.
- This evolution in Jericho’s character may also influence the dynamics within The Learning Tree, adding depth and complexity to their narratives.
- The rivalry between HOOK and Jericho is poised to become one of the most engaging storylines in AEW. The fireball attack has set the stage for a fierce and ongoing feud, with fans eagerly anticipating their next encounter.
- This rivalry promises to bring out the best in both wrestlers, combining HOOK’s raw talent and intensity with Jericho’s experience and showmanship.
Early Life of Chris Jericho
Chris Jericho, whose real name is Christopher Keith Irvine, was born on November 9, 1970, in Manhasset, New York, USA. Despite his birthplace, Jericho was raised primarily in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and he holds dual citizenship in both the United States and Canada.
This unique background has contributed to his versatile and adaptive nature, traits that have served him well throughout his illustrious career in professional wrestling and entertainment.
Chris Jericho (@IamJericho) Signs Extension With #AEW Through 2025 – Increasing Roles And Responsibilities
Read full release – https://t.co/9wFb4l7g37 pic.twitter.com/57Ng4esh2M— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) October 18, 2022
Family Background and Heritage
- Jericho comes from a diverse and culturally rich heritage. Both of his parents are Canadian, with his father, Ted Irvine, being a notable figure in the world of sports.
- Ted Irvine was a professional hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL), making a name for himself as a rugged and reliable player.
- This athletic lineage undoubtedly influenced Jericho’s own foray into the world of sports and entertainment.
- On his father’s side, Jericho is of Scottish descent, tracing his roots back to the Irvine clan. His mother’s side of the family brings a different cultural influence, as she is of Ukrainian descent.
- This blend of Scottish and Ukrainian heritage has given Jericho a rich cultural background, something he has embraced and celebrated throughout his life and career.
Childhood and Early Influences
Growing up in Winnipeg, Jericho was exposed to a variety of influences that would shape his future. His father’s career in the NHL meant that Jericho was familiar with the life of a professional athlete from a young age. This exposure likely instilled in him the discipline, work ethic, and competitive spirit necessary to succeed in professional wrestling.
Education and Early Aspirations
Jericho attended Red River College in Winnipeg, where he studied Creative Communications. This educational background equipped him with skills in media, public relations, and communication, all of which would prove invaluable in his wrestling and entertainment career.
Jericho’s time at college also allowed him to hone his performance skills and develop a unique persona that would resonate with fans.
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Chris Jericho’s Professional Wrestling Career
Chris Jericho, known for his dynamic in-ring style and charismatic persona, embarked on a remarkable journey in professional wrestling that has spanned several decades and continents.
His career is a testament to his versatility, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of excellence in the sport. From his humble beginnings in Canada to becoming a global wrestling icon, Jericho’s professional journey is both inspiring and entertaining.
Early Training and Debut
- Chris Jericho’s foray into professional wrestling began at the age of 19 when he enrolled in the Hart Brothers School of Wrestling in Calgary, Alberta.
- This school, run by the legendary Hart family, was renowned for its rigorous training regimen and its ability to produce top-tier wrestling talent.
- On his very first day, Jericho met Lance Storm, a fellow aspiring wrestler who would become his long-time friend and tag team partner.
- Jericho’s training under the guidance of Ed Langley and local Calgary wrestler Brad Young equipped him with the fundamental skills and techniques necessary for a successful wrestling career.
- His dedication and quick learning ability were evident, and just two months after completing his training, Jericho was ready to make his professional debut.
Early Career and International Success
After his debut, Jericho wrestled for various independent promotions across Canada and the United States, honing his craft and building a reputation as a talented and versatile performer. He adopted different ring names and personas, including “Lionheart” Chris Jericho, which would later become one of his most recognizable monikers.
Rise to Prominence in WCW
Jericho’s growing reputation eventually caught the attention of World Championship Wrestling (WCW), one of the major wrestling promotions in the United States at the time. He joined WCW in 1996, marking a significant milestone in his career. Initially introduced as a babyface, Jericho quickly won over fans with his athleticism and charisma.
Chris Jericho’s Net Worth: A Multifaceted Career Leading to Financial Success
Chris Jericho, a name synonymous with professional wrestling, has built an impressive net worth through his diverse career that spans wrestling, music, acting, and writing. As of 2024, Jericho’s net worth is estimated to be $18 million. This figure reflects his earnings from various ventures, demonstrating his versatility and business acumen.
Professional Wrestling Earnings
Chris Jericho’s primary source of income has been his illustrious career in professional wrestling. Since his debut in 1990, Jericho has performed in several major wrestling promotions, including WWE, WCW, ECW, NJPW, and AEW. His ability to adapt and reinvent his character has kept him relevant and in demand for over three decades.
WWE Career
Jericho’s tenure in WWE, which began in 1999, was particularly lucrative. He earned substantial salaries, especially during the peak years of his career. WWE contracts for top stars often include base salaries, performance bonuses, and a share of merchandise sales.
As a multiple-time world champion and a fan favorite, Jericho was one of WWE’s highest earners. His memorable feuds and character reinventions, such as Y2J and “The Ayatollah of Rock ‘n’ Rolla,” ensured his position as a top-tier talent.
AEW Success
In 2019, Jericho signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a move that reportedly came with a highly lucrative contract. As one of the company’s marquee signings, Jericho’s salary in AEW reflects his status as a wrestling legend.
His role in AEW has not only been as a performer but also as a mentor and leader, further solidifying his value to the promotion.
Album Sales and Tours
Fozzy’s albums, such as “Do You Wanna Start a War” and “Judas,” have performed well on the charts, with “Judas” reaching impressive positions on the Billboard charts. The title track “Judas” has become a staple entrance theme in AEW, boosting its popularity and streaming numbers.
Jericho’s involvement in the band’s tours and live performances has added another revenue stream, as concerts and merchandise sales bring in considerable income.
FAQ’S
1. Which gimmick did Chris Jericho revive on AEW Dynamite?
Ans: Chris Jericho revived his popular “Lionheart” gimmick, which he originally used during his early days in wrestling and in his time with WCW in the 1990s. The Lionheart persona is known for its technical wrestling style and throwback appearance.
2. Why did Chris Jericho decide to bring back the Lionheart gimmick?
Ans: Jericho likely brought back the Lionheart gimmick to add nostalgia and excitement for long-time wrestling fans. It also allows him to showcase his versatility and pay homage to his storied career.
3. How did the audience react to the return of the Lionheart gimmick?
Ans: The audience reacted positively to the return of the Lionheart gimmick, with many fans appreciating the nod to Jericho’s earlier career and his ability to reinvent himself. The reaction was a mix of excitement and nostalgia.
4. What impact does the Lionheart gimmick have on Jericho’s current storylines?
Ans: The Lionheart gimmick adds a new layer to Jericho’s current storylines, allowing for fresh matchups and renewed rivalries. It also gives Jericho a chance to demonstrate different in-ring techniques and styles.
5. What are some notable matches or moments associated with the Lionheart gimmick?
Ans: Notable moments associated with the Lionheart gimmick include Jericho’s matches in WCW, where he established himself as a top cruiserweight and had memorable feuds with the likes of Dean Malenko and Rey Mysterio. These matches showcased his technical prowess and charisma.
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