AEW’s new World Champion, Samoa Joe, made his first appearance on tonight’s episode of Dynamite Homecoming. This was the first time the new champ was seen since AEW’s Worlds End, where he won the title. While fans believe it is just Joe, being Joe for appearing this late, what he was holding could’ve been the reason.
Joe was not the only one to make an appearance tonight, but also the new World Champion belt. Yes, we have a new AEW World Championship belt design, which oddly resembles the WWE belt design.
Samoa Joe debuts the new AEW World Championship belt design
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As Joe’s music hit, the fans popped for their new AEW World Champion. The lone Samoan Warrior made his way to the ring to fans chanting, “Thank you Joe.” Joe responded by telling them no ‘Thank yous’ were needed. While doing so, he showed off the new title belt in all its glory. However, some eagle-eyed fans noticed something new.
I wonder what made them want to start doing the side plate thing #AEWDynamite pic.twitter.com/LuGl10JeB4
— Patrick The Heel (@patricktheheel) January 11, 2024
AEW belts have never had side panels to the main middle piece of the belt. The first and only one of its kind. It raised eyebrows. Some were quick to compare it to WWE belts that use a similar design. There is no information as to where AEW got the idea from or why they changed the belt; the uncanny resemblance to a WWE one is undeniable.
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The main reason for the comparison to the WWE World Heavyweight Championship belt is that AEW has always wanted to stand out from the WWE. Introducing a belt that shares similar designs to that of the WWE negates this effort. While the majority of the fans have praised the new design and the new look, some have drawn the comparison, which is gaining attention online.
Samoa Joe’s ultimate test in just a week
While Joe is basking in the glory of becoming the champion now, he is confronted by Seweve Strickland, Adam Page, and Hook. All gunning for the title. While Joe claimed he would stomp on anyone looking to take a title shot, only time will tell if he can live up to the promise.
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Next week, on January 17, Joe will defend his title against Hook. What do you think about the new title belt? Tell us down below.
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