Chris Jericho Confesses to Finding Joy in Angering Others

Chris Jericho defeated HOOK for the FTW Championship at AEW Dynasty and since then he has fully embraced ”The Learning Tree” gimmick, which has actually managed to anger more people than expected. With that said, Jericho has admitted he enjoys angering people.

The Learning Tree recently conducted an interview with KCAL News to promote tonight’s Dynamite episode from the Kia Forum in LA. During the interview, Chris Jericho discussed the reasons behind the recent surge in wrestling’s popularity and the latest evolution of his character.

When asked about the recent heat he’s been receiving, the former AEW Champion described it as amazing as he admitted that he simply takes pride and finds enjoyment in making people mad.

Chris Jericho emphasized that character and storytelling are the most crucial elements in the wrestling business. He stated that fans will always come to see the show if there’s a strong connection with the audience. When asked about his interactions with fans, the wrestling veteran stressed the importance of reading the room to gauge their reactions and tailor his performance accordingly.

“It’s amazing. When you have been in the business as long as I have, 33 years, you always wanna evolve and revamp your character. Kind of get some diversity with what you’re doing so I think re-establishing myself under this Leaning Tree, it gives you a new vibe, reinvigorates you, and keeps things fresh and fun.

The one thing about wrestling is and it’s very important is you have to understand the concepts of being a good guy and when it starts getting stale, of being a bad guy. It’s kind of like when people say ‘It’s like a soap opera.’ In that way, it is a soap opera. You’re a good guy and then suddenly something happens and then you don’t like ’em for a while. You have to be able to read the room on that and know when people hate you.

People are really not liking me right now so it’s time to kind of change. And that’s ok, that’s the beauty of wrestling, you can just lean into it. I take great pride in kind of making people angry with things cause that’s what you want to do. You’re playing a character. When Chris Jericho comes on screen in AEW, it’s different from the Chris Jericho you’re talking to right now. That’s the way it should be. A larger-than-life character is kind of what wrestling is all about and I embrace that wholly.”

We will have to wait and see how Chris Jericho’s new character will continue to be viewed by fans, as there are quite a few people who are genuinely fed up with him and just want Jericho to retire for good.

What do you think of Chris Jericho’s current character in AEW? Sound off in the comments section below!