Sika Anoa'i dead at 79: WWE Hall of Famer and father of Roman Reigns passes away as tributes pour in

  • Anoa'i is the father of former WWE universal champion Roman Reigns 
  • He competed in wrestling for over a decade in the tag team 'The Wild Samoans'

By Jake Fenner

Published: | Updated:

Sika Anoa'i, a WWE Hall-of-Famer and the father of former WWE champion Roman Reigns, has passed away at the age of 79.

In a statement, his nephew - Jahrus Anoa'i - broke the news to the fans of the wrestler around the world.

'It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of Former Hall of Famer, Polaivao Leati Sika Anoa’i,' the statement read.


'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.

Sika Anoa'i, the former WWE wrestler and the father of Roman Reigns, has died at age 79

Sika Anoa'i, the former WWE wrestler and the father of Roman Reigns, has died at age 79

Anoa'i competed with his brother Afa in a tag-team duo known as The Wild Samoans

Anoa'i competed with his brother Afa in a tag-team duo known as The Wild Samoans

'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 Anoa'i began his career in wrestling in 1973 - competing in multiple different territories before linking up with the WWE (formerly WWF) in 1980.

He won the WWF World Tag Team Title on two occasions in his first stint (and three times in total) with the company - competing as one half of The Wild Samoans alongside his brother Afa.

Sika spent time going in and out of the wrestling promotion - retiring in the late 1980s and competing in WWE for a final time in 1988. He appeared at WWE Hell in a Cell back in 2020 alongside his son, Roman Reigns.

In addition to the WWF tag team title, Sika won the tag-team belts of ten other wrestling promotions.

Sika was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame.

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