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Doric Sam January 6, 2022.
The set number is X162079.
For the second time in less than a year, popular veteran wrestler Samoa Joe has been released from his WWE contract.
Fightful's Sean Ross Sapp received confirmation from the company that the news was true. Joe was released in April before rejoining the company in June.
Triple H advocated for Joe to return after his initial release, and he was brought back to the company. He entered into a feud with then-champion Karrion Kross that culminated with a match at TakeOver 36.
Joe became the first three-time champion in the history of the brand. He was forced to relinquish the title in September due to an injury, and hasn't been seen on television since.
After making a name for himself in Ring of Honor and other independent promotions, Joe joined the WWE as part of the NXT team. He won the title twice before moving to the main roster. He was a two-time United States champion.
Injuries to his knee, foot and head kept him out of action for months at a time. He was suspended for 30 days for violating the policy. He joined the Monday Night Raw commentary team while he was not medically cleared to compete.
The trend of getting rid of members of the original NXT brand continues with Joe's release. "NXT 2.0" spotlights younger talent. The Performance Center staffs and members of the production were also released earlier this week.