AEW Star ‘Most Likely’ Retiring When Contract Expires

AEW

An AEW star has said he is “most likely” going to retire from in-ring action when his current contract expires.

The main event of this weekend’s WrestleDream pay-per-view is set to see Hangman Adam Page defend the AEW World Championship against Samoa Joe.

Speaking in a new interview with SHAK Wrestling, Joe addressed his retirement plans, saying he’s “most likely” going to end his in-ring career when his current contract is up.

He said:

“I’d say most likely (he’ll retire at the end of his contract), and honestly I think it’s for a lot of reasons and I think most of them are responsible.

“Obviously you never want to outstay your welcome in this industry and I have been fortunate that I have been able to be involved with it for over 25 years now.

“The other thing too is many of us want to preserve what we can of our health for our latter years, so it is something that is probably the most likely scenario.

“But hey, it is an unusual world and unusual opportunities come up.”

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It’s unknown when Joe’s AEW contract is due to expire. When he was asked if he could give a specific date, he replied:

“No, not at all. It might be a surprise, it might just be one day I’m gone. I’m not as ceremonial as everybody else. I like disappearing into the sunset.”

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Then, when asked why he has that mindset, he added:

“In a lot of ways I feel it’s important, maybe to me more than anyone else. I wouldn’t want to hold up a young burgeoning industry on behalf of myself.

“Not like anybody else isn’t deserving of that honor, I’m not saying that. But what I am saying is, I’ve always been someone who’s been firmly planted with their eyes towards the future and never tried to dwell too much on the past, and it’s kind of been my theory with the industry too.

“I would hope we always look to the future, and obviously appreciate the past but not miss it too much.”

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Joe went on to add that he wants a role within wrestling when he retires from the ring, saying:

“Honestly whatever role would have me. I’m not worried about what it is I’ll do, that’s not an issue for me. You plug me in wherever, I’ll do whatever it takes to help us as much as we need to be helped in that area.

“I think I definitely would like to have some involvement in the industry. I’d love to work with younger athletes and help them develop and become better.

“Other than that, just continue to make stronger and stronger performers for the fans to enjoy at home. That’s really what I want to leave to the business and if I leave anything for my legacy it’s that 10 superstars became greater because of my help and were able to entertain you into the near future.”

If you use this transcription or any portion of it, please credit WrestleTalk.com and link to this page.