Samoa Joe has addressed his career longevity, revealing that his retirement timeline is “not quite nailed down” as he focuses on creating lasting memories for wrestling fans.
During a recent interview with SHAK Wrestling, the AEW star opened up about his future in the ring, the exceptional technical skill of today’s roster, and Anthony Bowens’ violent transformation within The Opps.
Retirement Timeline and Creating Memories
Having competed at the highest levels across TNA, Ring of Honor, WWE, and now AEW, Joe remains one of the most respected veterans in the industry. When asked about his future plans, Joe explained that he is taking things one step at a time rather than setting a strict endpoint.
“I mean, really, just putting on meaningful, fun matches for the fans. I think trying to consistently give people something to tune in for and have a good time with. Listen, what my time frame is (for retirement) kind of still not quite nailed down, but I will say this. I want to leave as many good memories as I can while I have the opportunity, and I think that’s just kind of the best way to approach things right now,” Joe stated.
Praise for the Technicality of the Modern Generation
Joe also discussed how professional wrestling has evolved, noting that today’s athletes possess superior coordination and adaptability compared to past eras. He drew comparisons to mixed martial arts regarding how modern technical proficiency shapes competition.
“I think adaptability and coordination are way better than they’ve probably been in years. I think that you get a lot of people who have maybe more of a natural aptitude, but maybe less physical potential. I think that’s kind of the best way to put it, you’re finding people who are definitely—and I think you kind of see the same trend in MMA where it’s like, you know, in the lighter weight classes, you’re going to see a lot more technicality. You’re going to see a lot more skill. You’re probably going to get, you know, a bit closer matchups where, you know, guys can take a bit more punishment just along those weight classes. Whereas, you know, in the past, it being predominantly dominated by a more heavyweight style, you know, you saw less that proficiency. So I think just, you know, the technicality probably is a lot higher than it’s been,” Joe explained.
Elevating Anthony Bowens in The Opps
In addition to his own career, Joe evaluated the progression of Anthony Bowens since joining forces with him in The Opps. Joe expressed satisfaction with how the former Acclaimed star has added a ruthless edge to his repertoire.
“I think he’s becoming a much more varied competitor, where he’s going to be multifaceted, and listen, he’s always been a blue-chipper athlete. He’s always been a tremendous grappler. He’s able to connect with crowds. He’s able to bring people off their feet. But it’s just now kind of pairing a little bit of more viciousness, putting a little bit more edge on the blade, and putting him in the positions where and hopefully he can shine and then kind of show the world what he’s capable of,” Joe shared.
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