AJ Styles Reflects on Tapping Out to Samoa Joe in Early TNA Match – During a recent appearance at the Fanatics Live Signing event at WWE World, AJ Styles took a moment to reflect on one of the most influential rivalries of his career: his legendary battles with Samoa Joe.
Speaking candidly to fans, Styles praised Joe as one of the best wrestlers he’s ever worked with, specifically recalling a memorable match in TNA where he submitted to Joe—something he believes added authenticity and drama to their storyline.
“There was a match that we had in TNA. And I remember he choked me out and there was a big thing about, ‘Oh you don’t wanna tap out to the [new guy coming in]… You know, get choked out,’” Styles said. “What are you talking about? I don’t know if you’ve heard of the UFC. People tap out all the time. Because they are smart and they really don’t want to go to sleep. Or they don’t want their arm broken.”
Styles emphasized that the decision to tap out wasn’t a sign of weakness but one of storytelling and realism. “Joe was new coming in. And it was an amazing match and it made that match so much better that I was able to tap out,” he continued. “The Samoan Submission was one of the best I’ve ever been in the ring with.”
Styles and Joe share a storied history that spans across multiple promotions, including TNA, Ring of Honor, and WWE. Their rivalry reignited on a major stage at WWE Hell in a Cell 2018, where the two clashed for the WWE Championship. That match ended in controversy after Samoa Joe locked in the Coquina Clutch. Styles countered into a pinning combination, scoring the three-count, but replays showed Styles may have tapped moments before the referee’s hand hit the mat.
That disputed finish added another chapter to their long-running saga, reinforcing the depth and intensity of their feud. Despite competing on different stages and under different circumstances, the chemistry between Styles and Joe has remained consistent and impactful.
AJ Styles’ comments not only shed light on his respect for Samoa Joe but also highlight how critical storytelling elements—like a well-timed submission—can elevate a match and define a rivalry.
AJ Styles Reflects on Tapping Out to Samoa Joe in Early TNA Match
