Chris Jericho, a luminary in the world of professional wrestling, boasts a career spanning over three and a half decades, marked by remarkable achievements across various promotions, including WCW, WWE, NJPW, and AEW. His extensive list of accomplishments and enduring presence in the industry have solidified his status as a true icon, deserving of recognition in any wrestling hall of fame. However, Jericho’s perspective on such accolades reveals a complex and nuanced view, challenging the conventional notion of what constitutes a wrestler’s legacy.
Jericho’s journey began in 1990, but his ascent to prominence commenced with his arrival in WCW in 1996. His agility and charisma quickly made him a standout in the Cruiserweight division, where he captured the WCW Cruiserweight Championship four times. Adding to his accolades, Jericho also held the WCW World Television Championship, further solidifying his presence within the company. This period served as a crucial stepping stone, paving the way for even greater achievements in the subsequent stages of his career.
The transition to WWE marked a pivotal moment for Jericho. Adopting the moniker “Y2J” and proclaiming “Raw is Jericho,” he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His time in WWE witnessed a meteoric rise to the top, culminating in the unprecedented achievement of becoming the first Undisputed WWF Champion, holding both the WWF and World Championship concurrently. This historic feat alone cemented his place in wrestling history.
Jericho’s dominance in WWE continued with numerous championship reigns, including the World Heavyweight Championship three times, the WCW/World Championship twice, the Intercontinental Championship a record nine times, and the United States Championship twice. His prowess extended beyond singles competition, amassing seven tag team championships, showcasing his versatility and adaptability within the squared circle. These accomplishments, combined with his undeniable charisma and evolving persona, solidified his status as a top-tier performer and a true fan favorite.
Despite these undeniable achievements and his undeniable eligibility for the WWE Hall of Fame, Jericho’s perspective on the institution is surprisingly ambivalent. He doesn’t perceive the Hall of Fame as a genuine measure of a wrestler’s worth, viewing it more as a spectacle for the fans rather than a true testament to one’s career. His provocative statements, suggesting a potential refusal to participate in an induction ceremony, echo the rebellious spirit of iconic figures like the Sex Pistols and Axl Rose. This unconventional stance reflects Jericho’s individuality and his tendency to challenge established norms.
Jericho’s recent leadership of The Learning Tree faction in AEW has garnered mixed reactions, further underscoring his ability to remain relevant and generate discussion within the wrestling community. While the merits of this particular storyline are debated, it undoubtedly demonstrates Jericho’s continued commitment to pushing boundaries and evolving his character. Ultimately, his legacy extends beyond any single accolade or storyline, encompassing a diverse and influential career that has shaped the landscape of professional wrestling for over three decades. Whether or not he chooses to accept induction into the WWE Hall of Fame, his place in wrestling history remains firmly secured.
