AEW star Samoa Joe has broken his silence on his current absence from the company, revealing that the situation is more serious than previously reported. In a new interview, the former AEW World Champion confirmed that he is currently in the company’s concussion protocols following the attack he suffered at All In: Texas.
This is a significant update, as his hiatus was previously believed to be solely for promotional duties for his television series. Joe was written off television after being stretchered out of the arena at the July 12th pay-per-view.
A Real Injury Behind The Storyline
Speaking with WrestleZone, Samoa Joe set the record straight on his status. He confirmed he is dealing with a legitimate medical issue that he is taking very seriously.
“You know, obviously we’re working through concussion protocols right now, which I take very seriously,” Joe said. “Hopefully, doctors will clear me sooner than later, so we can make amends for things that maybe shouldn’t have gone on.”
His ominous comment about “making amends” appears to be a direct reference to the brutal post-match assault by the Death Riders faction at All In. That storyline attack now has a very real-world component.
Courtesy of AEW
A Career Built On Physicality
Samoa Joe has built a legendary, two-decade career on a foundation of intense, hard-hitting physicality. His “Samoan Submission Machine” persona is built on a realistic, MMA-influenced offense of stiff strikes, brutal suplexes, and powerful submission holds. While this style has made him a world champion in every major promotion he has been in, it also carries a significant risk of injury.
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In the past, concussions were often overlooked in the wrestling business. However, with the modern understanding of the long-term effects of head trauma, companies like AEW have instituted strict concussion protocols that require a superstar to be fully cleared by independent doctors before they are allowed to return to the ring. Joe’s statement shows that he is respecting this important process.
An Uncertain Future
While Joe will still be involved in promoting the second season of his hit Peacock series, Twisted Metal, it is now clear that his return to an AEW ring is dependent on his medical clearance. His injury puts the future of the AEW Trios Championships, which he currently holds with his partners in The Opps, in question.
When he is cleared to return, he already has a clear target. His parting words suggest that he will be coming for revenge on the Death Riders.
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