Samoa Joe's release was probably the most surprising of the batch of superstars dropped by WWE on Thursday, a year to the day from the company making its first round of "budget cuts" in 2020.
Joe had an interesting exchange with CM Punk via Twitter after his release, with Punk mentioning him in a tweet showing a GIF of the "F**k Yo Couch" moment from Dave Chappelle's Chappelle's Show. Punk seemed to imply that Joe was finally free from the laid-back role he was made to step into following his injury.
Joe replied to the tweet, writing: "they really should of never gave me money." As to what he means by that is left up to us to guess. But it's hard not to see this in reference to WWE.
Punk responded to Joe's tweet, writing: "F**ked up and paid us."
Joe and Punk share lots of history as they competed together on the independent scene and various promotions during the early parts of their careers. Punk has been out of WWE for seven years while Joe had his six-year run with the company end this week. The talented performer won the NXT Championship and the United States Championship during his time on the brand and had an interesting feud with Brock Lesnar a few years ago.
The End Of A Solid Run
Having debuted in 2015, Joe went on to make history by becoming the first-ever two-time NXT Champion. He challenged for both the WWE and Universal Championships on the main roster but never managed to win either of them.
He had been working as a commentator while dealing with injuries and was one of the main voices at WrestleMania 37 last weekend.
Meanwhile, Peyton Royce, Billie Kay, Mickie James, Kalisto, and Chelsea Green are among superstars who were released by WWE on Thursday. We expect AEW will be swooping in, with Joe likely to garner lots of interest from the younger brand, as well as other promotions.