Coming into WWE, Samoa Joe had “pretty low” expectations. But after nearly a year in the company, Joe has enjoyed his time thus far.
The current WWE NXT Champion talked to Scott Fishman of Channel Guide Magazine in advance of NXT Takeover: Brooklyn II. He commented on his experience with the wrestling entertainment giant.
“The majority of my career, you see people released or on their way out of the company saying various horror stories about how things are. So my expectations were pretty low. But being a part of the company has far exceeded my expectations,” Joe said. “It has been a blast the entire time I’ve worked here. I’m not one to grumble and complain much, but I have to admit it has been refreshing just being a part of the company and being part of the NXT brand.”
The 37-year-old Orange County native has worked in rings across the globe, most known for his near decade in TNA and multiple ROH runs. Now, Joe is champion and a main draw for NXT, where the veteran continues his character he spent 15 plus years to establish.
“They kind of gave me the reins to be Samoa Joe and do what I needed to do. They let me keep my moniker. I think the biggest thing is they respected me and my artistic integrity. It has been very welcome to see while working for WWE,” Joe said.
Joe defeated then NXT champion and current RAW superstar Finn Bálor at a live event in Lowell, Massachusetts, April 21, becoming the eighth NXT champion in the brand's history. The win ended Bálor’s reign as NXT Champion, previously holding the title for 292 days. Bálor won the title on July 4, 2015.
At NXT Takeover: Brooklyn II, Joe will defend his title against Shinsuke Nakamura at Barclays Center.
