Samoa Joe is contemplating the next phase of his wrestling career as he prepares to challenge Hangman Page for the AEW World Championship at WrestleDream in St. Louis. In a candid interview with CBS Sports, Joe examined the realities of a potential retirement from wrestling, drawing from his extensive 25-year journey in the industry. He emphasized the importance of preserving health for the later years, a sentiment shared by many wrestlers of his generation.
While some wrestling legends like John Cena, AJ Styles, and Hiroshi Tanahashi enjoy a ceremonious farewell to their careers, Joe anticipates a more understated exit. “It might be a surprise. It might just be one day I’m gone and leave it at that,” he stated. Joe articulated a desire to embrace the future rather than dwell heavily on the past, suggesting he prefers to quietly fade into the sunset rather than having a grand retirement celebration.
Adding to his career’s complexities, Joe’s induction into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame remains uncertain. Currently on the ballot for 2025, he garnered 23.2 percent of votes in 2024, with a required 60 percent for induction. Notably, wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer commented on Joe’s strong accolades and longevity in the industry, while also recognizing the challenges he faces in the context of attaining Hall of Fame status. Meltzer noted that despite Joe’s impressive runs, particularly in Ring of Honor and AEW, he falls short of the recognition some contemporaries have achieved.
As Joe continues to compete at a high level, wrestling fans eagerly await his championship match tonight, hoping for a memorable performance that could serve as a highlight in his storied career.