AEW star Samoa Joe has spotlighted the intense and authentic wrestling style of New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s (NJPW) Gabe Kidd, a recurring guest in AEW, praising him as an emerging talent with a rare edge. Speaking on the popular podcast Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze, Joe described Kidd as a “tremendous young man” who embodies “real visceral, mean intensity,” a quality Joe considers vital yet increasingly scarce in modern professional wrestling[1].
Joe, a multi-time world champion known for his no-nonsense, hard-hitting style across TNA, NXT, and AEW, revealed that he’s been studying Kidd closely—his “nemesis” in recent AEW matches. The intensity Kidd brings, according to Joe, is something “innate to people” who can channel their real emotions into their in-ring performance, thereby making it genuine and relatable for fans[1].
Besides Kidd, Joe also highlighted two AEW superstars he admires for their similar levels of intensity and authenticity: Jay White and Eddie Kingston. Both have cultivated reputations for delivering emotionally charged performances that resonate strongly with audiences. Joe emphasized that wrestlers who can tap into and communicate their true feelings effectively remain a “hallmark” in the business and are “very rare.” This quality, he believes, defines top-tier performers in 2025[1].
The praise for Gabe Kidd is particularly noteworthy given his rising profile not only within NJPW but also his frequent appearances in AEW shows, where his feuds and matches have started commanding attention. According to insiders, his chemistry with established stars like Samoa Joe has elevated his status and helped him generate buzz among fans and industry insiders alike[1].
Samoa Joe himself has experienced a resurgence in AEW after a mixed-run in WWE. Wrestling commentators, including those on the WrestleTalk Podcast, have noted that Joe has adapted his style from his high-octane TNA days to a more methodical yet still impactful presence in AEW. This adjustment has allowed him to remain relevant and dominant, disproving any notion that his career was winding down[2].
Joe’s ability to appreciate and recognize intensity in fellow performers comes from his own deep roots in wrestling. Having won titles across multiple promotions, he knows firsthand how authenticity and emotional connection with the audience can set a wrestler apart. AEW fans have seen Joe’s intensity shine, especially in his recent clashes with Jon Moxley and others, maintaining an undefeated singles record for much of 2025 after returning from injury[3].
Moreover, insiders close to AEW reveal that Joe’s contract discussions might mark the final chapter of his storied career, underscoring the importance of continuing to push the envelope with emerging talents like Gabe Kidd and fellow AEW stars Jay White and Eddie Kingston, who embody the spirited, raw intensity that fans crave[4].
In summary, Samoa Joe’s comments shine a spotlight on Gabe Kidd’s breakout potential as an NJPW star gaining momentum in AEW, while also reaffirming that true intensity and authentic emotion remain the defining characteristics of elite professional wrestlers today. As AEW continues to blend talent from around the world, the shared intensity among top stars promises exciting storytelling and unforgettable matches in the months ahead.
Quotes are credited to “Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze,” with thanks to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.