Samoa Joe Explains Logic Behind His 'Nope' Spot

Speaking recently to Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, current AEW World Champion Samoa Joe explained the logic behind his much-loved "nope" spot. 

The counter sees Joe avoid an opponent's high-flying manoeuvre by casually walking out of the way. A notable recent example came at AEW's All In 2023 show at Wembley Stadium, where he avoided a CM Punk dive to the outside in this manner. Joe explained the thought process behind the move, stating:

"As a small youth in my younger days, if I saw something large or very destructive coming toward me, it was only natural to step aside. It’s not rocket science. The cavemen understood this, too. If you see a rock coming toward you from the top of the hill, move a little to the left."

Joe is in the midst of his first reign as AEW World Champion, having defeated MJF at Worlds End on December 30, 2023 in Uniondale, New York.

The new champion has since defended the title against HOOK, but various other potential challengers are being positioned close to Joe in storyline, most notably Swerve Strickland and former champion 'Hangman' Adam Page.