Samoa Joe ended 2025 as a major figure in AEW, holding both the AEW World Championship and the AEW World Trios Titles simultaneously. However, early in 2026, his momentum was halted due to an injury sustained during training. AEW has not announced a specific timeline for when Joe will be able to return to the ring, creating uncertainty around his comeback.
Weekly Monitoring Reflects Cautious Approach to Healing
AEW is currently assessing Samoa Joe’s condition on a week-to-week basis, a process indicating that while clearance to compete could come soon, the company is proceeding carefully to protect his long-term health. This cautious stance raises the possibility that Joe’s downtime may be prolonged beyond initial expectations.
Potential Concussion Protocol and Its Implications
Reports suggest Samoa Joe is under AEW’s concussion protocol, a serious concern given his medical history. In 2020, Joe suffered two concussions within a brief period, forcing a hiatus from active wrestling and a temporary move to a commentary role. After recovering, he returned to in-ring action in WWE, where he won the NXT Championship in August 2021, but later vacated the title due to contracting COVID-19. Joe was released by WWE in January 2022 without wrestling again for the promotion.
Impact on The Opps Stable During Joe’s Absence
The injury and Joe’s ongoing absence have also affected The Opps group. With Powerhouse Hobbs no longer part of AEW after his move to WWE, HOOK has stepped up as the new leader, as announced on AEW Collision. While Katsuyori Shibata remains connected to the stable, it is unclear if The Opps will stay as a trio or if they will look to add new members while Joe recuperates.
AEW Emphasizes Health Over Rush to Return
At present, there is no definitive return date for Samoa Joe, as AEW prioritizes his well-being over hastening his reentry into competition. The company’s measured strategy underscores the risks involved and the importance of ensuring Joe’s full recovery before he steps back into the ring.
“Joe is currently sidelined with an injury suffered during training, and there is still no confirmed timetable for when he will return to the ring.” – AEW Insider
“AEW is monitoring Joe’s recovery on a week-to-week basis.” – Wrestling Observer
“Joe is believed to be in AEW’s concussion protocol, a concern given his medical history.” – Wrestling Analyst
