With a career spanning over three decades in professional wrestling, AEW’s Chris Jericho remains one of the most experienced and revered figures in the industry.
Throughout his tenure, the seasoned star has been featured in numerous dream matches, from showdowns with Steve Austin to clashes with Kenny Omega.
When he ultimately decides to step away, it would undoubtedly require someone truly exceptional to mark his exit from the competition.
Ricky Starks, one of Jericho’s more recent adversaries, has singled out new AEW sensation Will Ospreay as a prime candidate to be Jericho’s final opponent.
“I believe his ultimate rival, in my opinion, should be Will Ospreay”
Starks expressed in an interview, underscoring his satisfaction with Ospreay’s presence in AEW.
“It’s a delight to witness someone consistently—while we’ve caught glimpses of Will in Japan and elsewhere—now, we have the opportunity to see him weekly on ‘Dynamite’ or ‘Collision.'”
Ospreay and Jericho have faced each other in singles competition only once, with Ospreay emerging victorious in their encounter at All In at Wembley Stadium last year.
Starks also outlined his vision for what a Chris Jericho retirement match should entail.
“Do you know what it would require to retire Chris Jericho? An ‘I Quit’ match where his entire career is on the line.”
Jericho and Starks initially clashed during an episode of “AEW Dynamite” on January 4, 2023, followed by a rematch at AEW Revolution in March.
Starks emerged victorious in both encounters. However, their rivalry was reignited late last year while Starks held the AEW Tag Team Championship alongside Big Bill.
Jericho and Sammy Guevara challenged for the titles at AEW Battle of the Belts IX in January, ultimately falling short against Starks and Bill in a Street Fight.