Former AEW World Champion Samoa Joe has been forced to the sidelines following a training injury. This could prompt a significant shuffle in AEW’s top-tier storylines.
While the broadcast team on Dynamite cited a non-contact issue, recent reports indicate the situation involves concussion protocol, leaving Joe’s immediate future up in the air.
According to Fightful Select, the “Samoan Submission Machine” is currently navigating concussion protocol. He has to do so after sustaining a “non-contact” injury during a training session.
Excalibur noted in commentary that Joe remains a looming threat in the division. However, the nature of the injury has put a chokehold on AEW’s creative plans.
It appears Joe won’t be locking in the Coquina Clutch on his rivals anytime soon, as AEW is reportedly taking a cautious, week-to-week approach to his recovery.
AEW Adjusts Plans With Samoa Joe Sidelined
Joe was originally factored into the World Championship picture, but his absence forced a quick pivot.
In his stead, Andrade has stepped up to the plate. Backstage officials reportedly were pleased with his performance and the crowd reaction to his victory over Swerve Strickland.
Meanwhile, HOOK has filled the leadership void in Joe’s faction, “The Opps.” The “Cold Hearted Handsome Devil” officially announced he was taking charge during the February 7 edition of Collision.
The caution surrounding Joe’s status is understandable given his history. The veteran grappler faced a similar hurdle in 2020 during his WWE tenure, where consecutive concussions forced him to transition into a commentary role for an extended period.
With Joe previously hinting that he might “hang up his boots” and transition to training talent when his current contract expires, AEW is prioritizing his long-term health over a rushed return.
For now, “The Opps” will move forward under HOOK’s guidance as Joe recuperates.
While there is no concrete timetable for the former champion’s return, fans will have to wait to see if he can muscle his way back into the title picture once cleared.
Check out what happened on last week’s AEW Dynamite here.
READ MORE: Top AEW Star Suffers Injury While Training
