Sad news this afternoon (June 25) as Sika Anoa’i has died. In addition to being a WWE Hall of Famer in his own right as one half of The Wild Samoans with his brother Afa, Sika was the father of Roman Reigns and the late Matthew “Rosey” Anoa’i, who died in 2017.

Word first came from Sika’s nephew Jahrus’ Instagram, where he shared photos of his uncle along with a remembrance.

Sika Anoa’i, a legendary figure in professional wrestling, passed away on June 25, leaving behind a rich legacy both in and out of the ring. Born in American Samoa in 1945, Sika, alongside his brother Afa, achieved fame as one half of The Wild Samoans, a formidable tag team that made a significant impact in the wrestling world.

Their career spanned various territories, including Stu Hart’s Stampede Wrestling and eventually the WWF (now WWE) where they gained prominence in the 1980s. Managed by Lou Albano, The Wild Samoans held the World Tag Team titles multiple times during their tenure, establishing themselves as dominant forces in the era of Rock ‘N’ Wrestling.

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 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 ️ #wildsamoans #halloffamer #sikaanoai

Multiple outlets have since reported the news.

Born in American Samoa in 1945, Sika began wrestling with his brother as The Wild Samoans in 1973. Starting out in Calgary for Stu Hart’s Stampede Wrestling, they would work throughout the United States, Canada & Japan before debuting with the then-WWF in 1980.

Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007, Sika’s contributions extend beyond his achievements in the ring. He was a beloved father to Roman Reigns and the late Matthew “Rosey” Anoa’i, and a respected figure within the wrestling community. Following his wrestling career, Sika remained involved in the industry, contributing to the wrestling school and promotion founded by his brother Afa in Florida.

The Anoa’i family’s legacy continues to resonate through generations, influencing the wrestling landscape and contributing to the success of wrestlers like Roman Reigns and the popular Bloodline storyline in WWE today.

Sika Anoa’i’s passing marks the end of an era but his impact will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

During the first of what would be three runs with the promotion that would become WWE, The Wild Samoans twice held the company’s World Tag titles despite only being in the company for a year. They would win them a third time during their second stint from 1983-1985. Afa & Sika were managed by Lou Albano for each of their WWF reigns. When his brother retired from performing full-time, Sika continued as a singles wrestler and in a tag team with Kamala before leaving the WWF in 1988. He retired shortly thereafter, and helped with the wrestling school and promotion Afa founded in Florida.

The Wild Samoans were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007. As heels, they were one of the most over tag teams of the Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Era of the 80s. Their success and success of others in the Anoa’i/Samoan Dynasty was also, of course, the foundation for the massively popular Bloodline group and story that’s helped propel Reigns and WWE to new heights in recent years.

Thanks for the memories, sir, and may you rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sika’s family