Samoa Joe Quits TNA – Backstage Reaction, WWE Interested?
In a move that has surprised many, Samoa Joe announced on Twitter that he and TNA have parted ways. Joe’s contract with TNA was due to expire recently, and it appears that they have both agreed to let Joe go separate ways. The split appears to be amicable, and the door is open for Joe to return to the company at any point.
I have decided to part ways with @ImpactWrestling. My very best to them moving forward, and my eternal thanks to the fans.
— Samoa Joe (@SamoaJoe) February 17, 2015
The supposed reasons behind Joe leaving the company are similar to when current IWGP Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles left in 2013; TNA could no longer provide either talent with the paycheck they desired, and the talents left the company following a final offer from TNA. Another lesser factor is the belief that TNA want to start bringing in younger talents to build.
On expiration of @SamoaJoe contract, TNA and Joe have agreed to part ways. Joe will always be a member of our family & we wish him the best.
— John Gaburick (@JohnGaburick) February 17, 2015
Shocked to hear of the departure of @SamoaJoe. A TNA original & 1 of the major players. @IMPACTWRESTLING ain't what it used to be.
— Velvet Sky (@VelVelHoller) February 18, 2015
To @SamoaJoe – 1 of the very best I've ever had the privilege to wrestle. Many Blessings to you and your future. I will remember the feuds
— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) February 17, 2015
Various TNA talents, in addition to some select WWE talents, also tweeted their reactions to the release. In particular, most talents are saddened by the departure, but wish Joe all the best in his… “future endeavours”, for lack of a better term.
Best to @SamoaJoe in whatever path you take. Always loved working and talking with you. 10 great years with @IMPACTWRESTLING!
— Mike Tenay (@RealMikeTenay) February 18, 2015
Not gonna lie: pretty devastated that my big brother won't be there next time I go to work. He'll be more than fine. @SamoaJoe is all pro.
— Magnus (@MagnusOfficial) February 18, 2015
Which brings us to the WWE; rumour has it that Triple H is interested in an NXT run for the multiple-time world champion. According to infamous Reddit insider MetsFan4Ever, Triple H is pushing the idea for Joe to have a run in NXT, whereas Vince McMahon is indifferent to the idea altogether. Various WWE talents have tweeted in regards to Joe joining the WWE, specifically Paul Heyman and Steve Austin, the latter believing that Joe would do well within the company.
Hmmm RT @SamoaJoe I have decided to part ways with @ImpactWrestling. My very best to them moving forward, and my eternal thanks to the fans.
— Paul Heyman (@HeymanHustle) February 18, 2015
@SLIMM703 I think @WWE should pick him up. Helluva hand.
— Steve Austin (@steveaustinBSR) February 17, 2015
EN: Seeing how the source of these rumours is only correct half of the time, it should be taken with a pinch of salt at best. I would personally love to see Samoa Joe within the WWE, purely based on the potential matches he could have with the NXT talents alone. Joe/Itami. Joe/Owens. Joe/Balor. The possibilities there alone are bright.
However, in the interests of a better workplace with more opportunities in the long run, perhaps a visit to NJPW would benefit Joe more than a potential run in a company he worked for previously, back in the late nineties. Who else will stop the Bullet Club, right?
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