Samoa Joe ‘Absolutely’ Working Towards In-Ring Return, Now Working In WWE Scouting Department

Samoa Joe has taken on a new role in WWE both on-screen and behind the scenes.

Joe was released by WWE on April 15, but returned to television on June 15 when he was revealed as the enforcer for NXT General Manager William Regal. Joe is not only keeping the peace in NXT, but he has also taken on more of a backstage role within WWE upon his return as well.

Speaking to Ryan Satin on Out of Character, Joe was asked if there were any reservations to return to the company so soon after being released.

“No, a lot of what was, me and Triple H had spoken about this transition in-depth,” Joe replied. “It wasn’t just coming back to NXT and being an enforcer and having a role on the show. Now, I’m working in the talent scouting department, working with Canyon Ceman, doing more administrative things behind the scenes. It’s a transition into some of the other aspects of the business. It’s an evolution of my journey. It was a cool opportunity that Hunter offered me. It was a very nice understanding that we had come to.”

Joe is not only a legend in Independent wrestling, but is a big fan of MMA and tries to keep up with everything happening in the combat sports and wrestling world. Detailing how that will help him as a talent scout, Joe said, “I always try to keep a pulse on the industry in general, whether it be through me looking or my network contacts and people I know. Outside of the Indie wrestling world, in the combat sports world and a lot of the athletic world. Just heavy connections. It was a really nice fit. I’m looking forward to giving an opportunity to a lot of people that maybe wouldn’t get a look.”

Joe has not wrestled since February 2020 due to concussion-related injuries, but there have been teases of him wrestling again in NXT as he’s been confronted by the likes of Karrion Kross and Pete Dunne.

When asked if he’s working towards an in-ring return, Joe replied, “Absolutely. We’ll just say yes and leave it at that.”

Joe has gotten physical already in NXT, choking out Adam Cole after Cole shoved him in the middle of a brawl.

Speaking about potential opponents in NXT, Joe said, “Karrion Kross and Pete Dunne are at the top of that list. A guy like WALTER, people have been asking for it, I’m not blind. It’s for good reason. The guy is a powerhouse and people want to see some furniture moving. It’s not just one or two guys. Adam Cole, Roderick Strong, Kyle O’Reilly, there are several very accomplished athletes in NXT. Bronson Reed, he’s always yapping and wants to get some. Aussies, they got big mouths.”

It is unknown when or if Joe will wrestle again.

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