'Rest in power': Roman Reigns pays tribute to dad and WWE Hall of Famer Sika Anoa’i who died at 79

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Sika Anoa'i, who was known as one-half of the Wild Samoans tag team and father to WWE superstar Roman Reigns, has died at the age of 79.

The news of his death was shared on Tuesday, June 24, by his nephew Jahrus Anoa'i via Instagram. However, no specific cause of death has been disclosed.

WSika Anoa'i dies at 79 

Sika Anoa’i's nephew Jahrus wrote on his Instagram as he shared a reel, "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."

The caption further read, "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."

With his brother Afa Anoa'i, Sika formed the powerful team known as the Wild Samoans, leaving their impact on several wrestling promotions starting in the 1970s.

During their time with the then-WWF (now WWE), they won the World Tag Team Championship thrice, cementing their place as industry legends. Their influence went beyond the ring as their unique style and dominance shaped wrestling history. The WWE Hall of Fame inducted The Wild Samoans in 2007, demonstrating their enduring impact and legacy.

Sika's influence continued through his family, particularly with his son Roman Reigns, who has risen to prominence as a leading figure in WWE today.

Sika and Afa are credited with the creation of 'The Bloodline', a central storyline in WWE programming since 2020, highlighting their lasting influence on the wrestling community.

Beyond wrestling, Sika and Afa co-founded The Wild Samoan Training Facility, where they helped to develop the careers of Dave Bautista and other future WWE superstars.

Roman Reigns pays tribute to dad Sika Anoa’i who died at 79

After the death of his father Sika Anoa’i,

Roman Reigns took X to pay tribute to the WWF legend. 

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,” he added.

Additionally, WWE also released a statement saying, "WWE is saddened to learn that Sika Anoa’i, a WWE Hall of Famer, one-half of The Wild Samoans tag team and father of Roman Reigns, has passed away."

It added, "WWE extends its condolences to Anoa’i’s family, friends and fans."