The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Afa Anoa’i, a revered figure who passed away on Friday, August 16, at the age of 81. Afa, who resided in Minneola, was not only known for his legendary in-ring career as one-half of The Wild Samoans but also for his deep commitment to mentoring aspiring wrestlers. Afa was the uncle of WWE superstar Roman Reigns and WWE professional wrestler/American actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. His influence extended across multiple generations of the Anoa’i wrestling dynasty. We did a story on his Wild Samoan Training Center in Minneola City Hall a few years ago which you can read here: 

(Afa’s wife Lynn Anoa’i says “I have been overwhelmed with the outpour of love and testimonies from people who have known my husband. The one consistant statement that I have read over and over is THANK YOU for sharing pops with all of us in our lives.)

Born into a family that would become synonymous with professional wrestling, Afa, alongside his younger brother Sika—who died on June 25, 2024—dominated the tag team scene in the 1970s and 1980s. Their savage personas, complete with wild afros and raw intensity, captivated audiences and earned them numerous championships. Their impact was solidified with their induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007. I highly suggest watching that induction ceremony as it’s a good watch.

(Afa and Sika were known as the The Wild Samoans in the WWE where they won many tag team championships together.)

However, Afa’s legacy extends far beyond his in-ring accomplishments. After retiring, he dedicated his life to nurturing the next generation of wrestlers through his World X-Treme Wrestling (WXW) organization and the Wild Samoan Training Center. Known as “Pops” to the young men and women who trained under him, Afa took in students from all walks of life, including those from broken homes or difficult circumstances. He offered them not only wrestling skills but also life lessons in discipline, respect, and perseverance.

(Afa was an entertainer in the ring, but also an incredibly caring individual outside the ring who took so many under his wing over the years.)

Afa’s impact was felt by many, including those who found themselves at crossroads in life. His mentorship provided a beacon of hope, helping to steer young wrestlers away from troubled paths and toward successful careers both in and out of the ring. On a personal note, entertainers like Afa are the reason I got into wrestling and appreciating sports entertainment. In many ways the current version of “The Bloodline” with Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu and Tama Tonga remind me a lot of the Wild Samoans and although Jimmy and Jey Uso are not tag team partners currently, they also reminded me of the once great tag team.

The Anoa’i family’s influence on professional wrestling is vast, and Afa was at the heart of it. Beyond training many of the biggest names in wrestling, including his nephew Roman Reigns, Afa helped establish what is often referred to as the “Samoan Dynasty.” His legacy lives on through his family and the countless lives he touched during his decades-long career.

As the wrestling community reflects on Afa Anoa’i’s life, his contributions to the sport were matched only by his generosity and love for those he mentored. His passing marks the end of an era, but his spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide future generations of wrestlers. Afa is survived by his wife, Lynn, daughter Vale, and their extended family, who continue to uphold the proud traditions he helped establish.

Please check back for updates and information on services as they are received.