Samoa Joe Injury Update Leaves AEW Return Timeline Uncertain

Samoa Joe Injury Update Leaves AEW Return Timeline Uncertain – Samoa Joe closed out 2025 at the top of AEW, holding the AEW World Championship during his second reign while also sharing the AEW World Trios Titles. Just weeks into 2026, his momentum has stalled. 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.

A new update indicates AEW is monitoring Joe’s recovery on a week-to-week basis. That approach suggests he could be cleared at any time, but it also highlights the company’s cautious stance regarding his health. Internal handling of the situation has left open the possibility that his absence could extend longer than initially expected.

There appears to be a significant reason for that caution. Joe is believed to be in AEW’s concussion protocol, a concern given his medical history. In 2020, he suffered two concussions within a short span, which forced him out of in-ring competition and into a commentary role for the remainder of that year. He eventually returned to action in WWE, winning the NXT Championship on August 22 before later vacating the title after contracting COVID. He did not wrestle again for the company prior to his release in January 2022.

Joe’s current status has also affected The Opps. With Powerhouse Hobbs no longer part of AEW after departing for WWE, leadership of the group has shifted. HOOK announced on AEW Collision that he will take charge in Joe’s absence, leaving the stable’s future direction uncertain. Katsuyori Shibata remains involved, but it is unclear whether the group will continue as a trio or look to add a new member while Joe recovers.

For now, Joe’s return remains up in the air, with AEW prioritizing his long-term health over rushing him back into competition.

Samoa Joe Injury Update Leaves AEW Return Timeline Uncertain