Samoa Joe’s AEW Exit Explained

One of AEW’s most dominant and respected names was stretchered out of the arena during the All In: Texas event, sparking immediate concern among fans and speculation throughout the wrestling world. Samoa Joe, who had just endured a grueling match as part of The Death Riders, was the target of a brutal post-match attack. While the image of him being taken out on a stretcher raised alarm, new reports have clarified that the segment was not due to a legitimate injury.

According to backstage sources and reporting by Fightful Select, the entire scene was a scripted moment created to give Joe a temporary break from AEW programming. The real reason behind his absence is far from worrying. In fact, it signals a new chapter in Joe’s expanding entertainment career. He is stepping away from the ring to focus on promoting the upcoming second season of the Peacock series “Twisted Metal,” in which he plays a major role.

The segment at All In saw The Opps successfully defend the AEW Trios Championships against The Death Riders and Gabe Kidd in a chaotic, high-impact match. After the final bell, the violence continued, and Samoa Joe found himself laid out in the aftermath. His dramatic stretcher exit was designed to look like a severe injury, but it was carefully planned as a storyline development.

Joe’s brief hiatus is timed with the press tour and promotional responsibilities for “Twisted Metal,” which returns with its highly anticipated second season on July 31. In the series, based on the beloved video game franchise, Joe brings the towering and terrifying Sweet Tooth to life through his physical performance, while the voice of the character is provided by actor Will Arnett.

Season one of “Twisted Metal” proved to be a surprise hit, helping Peacock secure a broader fan base. Now, expectations are even higher for the follow-up, and Samoa Joe’s presence in the marketing push is seen as crucial. This crossover between wrestling and mainstream entertainment highlights Joe’s versatility as both an in-ring competitor and screen performer.

While his absence may leave a noticeable gap on AEW programming, fans can rest assured that this is not a sign of injury or retirement. Joe is expected to return after just a few weeks away, once his promotional obligations are complete. No specific date has been confirmed for his comeback, but internal reports suggest the hiatus will be short-lived.

Samoa Joe has long stood out as a unique figure in professional wrestling. His mix of raw power, intense presence, and legitimate acting talent has allowed him to seamlessly move between arenas and soundstages. With AEW giving him space to pursue outside projects, it only adds to his long-term value to the company and its evolving storylines.

For now, AEW fans will have to wait to see when the “Samoan Submission Machine” will make his return. But with “Twisted Metal” set to hit streaming screens soon, Samoa Joe’s visibility will remain high, even if he’s not inside the ring.