Joe Was Jogging Along a Quiet Jogging Trail Beside a River

Joe was jogging along a quiet jogging trail beside a river when he met Sam coming the other way. Joe stopped, and in conversation with Sam, accused him of stealing and shoplifting from Joe's store. Sam was appalled, got extremely irate, and struck Joe in the face. Joe was injured, suffering a broken nose and significant bruises. Finally, after some time, another jogger came along on the trail and broke up the fight. Joe sued Sam for battery and Sam sued Joe for defamation. Explain the likely outcome.