WWE Hall of Famer and former WWF Tag Team Champion Afa Anoa’i, one half of the iconic Wild Samoans tag team, is STILL alive, despite previous reports.
His daughter, Vale Anoa’i, and his son, Samu, have both confirmed that Afa is still alive, dispelling the early tributes that had emerged. This does not imply he is out of danger, as he is still described as “fighting.” We hope he can make a full recovery.
Here’s what Vale tweeted:
“He’s not done fighting yet, he’s still alive.”
Afa has been struggling with several health issues in recent years. He underwent multiple heart surgeries and back surgeries after a severe fall. These health problems have had a profound impact on his well-being, raising concerns for him during his last days.
Afa Anoa’i’s journey began at the age of 17 when he joined the Marine Corps. After his military service, he shifted to professional wrestling and teamed up with his brother Sika to form The Wild Samoans. Together, they dominated their era, securing titles across various wrestling territories, including three WWF Tag Team Championships.
After departing from the WWF in the mid-80s, Afa returned in 1992 to manage the tag team The Headshrinkers, which featured his family members Sami and Fatu. Following his wrestling career, Afa committed himself to training future wrestlers at the Wild Samoan Training Facility, sharing his expertise and love for the industry.
In 2007, Afa Anoa’i was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, solidifying his status among the legends of wrestling.
Samu Anoa’i, Afa’s eldest son, shared a heartfelt tribute to his father:
“As we embark on your final journey home, we express our heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering love and guidance you have bestowed upon us throughout our lives. We find solace in knowing that you will soon be reunited with the Lord Jesus, your parents, siblings, and friends who have gone before us. We have no doubt that you will establish a Wild Samoan training center in the sky, bringing us all together once again. We believe in the power of your love and legacy, and we will continue to honor it in all that we do.
Respectfully yours, Big Sam Anoa’i. The oldest cousin of the Bloodline clan.”
Afa’s tag team partner Sika Anoa’i passed away on June 25th of this year, at the age of 79.
Afa’s last appearance on WWE programming was at Hell in a Cell 2020:
