The world of professional wrestling is once again in mourning. WWE Hall of Famer Sika Anoa’i passed away today, June 25, at the age of 79. He will be remembered for being a part of the Wild Samoans, a team that remained active for more than two decades. Sika was also the father of Roman Reigns, one of WWE’s great superstars.

His nephew, Jahrus Anoa’i, was the first to inform fans of the news. Jahrus took to Instagram to dedicate some heartfelt and final words to his uncle. He wrote, “It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of former Hall of Famer, Polaivao Leati Sika Anoa’i. He passed away peacefully on June 25th. Sika was a celebrated figure whose contributions and legacy have left an indelible mark. His memory will live on through his achievements and the many lives he touched.” 

He continued, “He was many things: a hard-working father, a caring brother, a supportive uncle, and a proud grandfather. He was a cherished friend to many, a loving family member whose warmth and kindness knew no bounds, and an inspiration to countless individuals. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations, reminding us of the impact one person’s life can have on so many. Rest in love, Uncle Sika.” Sika truly was a well-loved figure, so it was no wonder that tributes started pouring in. With many from the Bloodline too paying tribute to the Hall of Famer.

The Bloodline consists of notable personalities from the same family. Hence, it is no wonder that Jey Uso re-shared the post uploaded by the WWE on his Instagram story. He also followed it up by adding another story where he is using the ‘finger up’ gesture used by the Bloodline faction to acknowledge Roman Reigns. However, he also explained why he was acknowledging him, and that is because he feels for Reigns, who lost his father. “I had to… One time for Unk. RIP.”

Roman Reigns’ potential new rival, Solo Sikoa, re-shared it on his story too. Bloodline manager Paul Heyman and possible future Bloodline member Zilla Fatu also re-shared the post by the WWE on their stories to pay tribute to Sika. But the most important message came from The Tribal Chief himself, who expressed his gratitude for all the love and support he received at this tumultuous time.

Roman Reigns talks about his father’s “profound impact

Roman Reigns has climbed the upper echelons of WWE due to a ferocious blend of charisma and talent. This talent came about only because Reigns adopted the mantra that was conveyed to him by his father amongst many other important personnel. In this distressing time, Reigns took the time to remember his father and represent him as best as he could for the future. He wrote, “My family and I thank everyone for the outpouring of support in the name of my father, Pola’ivao Leati Sika Anoa’i, who will forever be remembered as one half of The Wild Samoans tag team.  My father had a profound impact on my entire family and we are forever grateful for the foundation he built for us. There’s no way to fill the void left by his passing but my sisters and I will do our best to represent him and his legacy.  Rest in Power, Dad. We love you.”

The legend broke into the professional wrestling business in 1973. He worked for several independent promotions before joining the WWF in 1980. During his first stint with the company, he won the WWF World Tag Team Championship twice, teaming with his brother Afa as the Wild Samoans.

Sika fought his last match in the WWF in 1988, a year before his retirement. Despite this, he returned to compete occasionally, up to five times. He won 18 championships throughout his career, all of them in pairs with his brother Afa. Both were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2007. From EssentiallySports, we offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Sika Anoa’i.