The pro-wrestling industry reacts to the death of Afa Anoa’i.
As noted, the WWE Hall of Famer sadly passed away earlier today. He was 81 years old. This comes just a couple of months after his brother and longtime Wild Samoans tag team partner, Sika Anoa’i, passed away as well.
WWE has since issued the following on Afa’s death:
WWE is saddened to learn that Afa Anoa’i Sr. — a WWE Hall of Famer and one-half of the iconic Wild Samoans tag team — has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to Anoa’i’s family, friends and fans.https://t.co/HJ8nUhvOXY pic.twitter.com/a8trH9RcAs
— WWE (@WWE) August 16, 2024
WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H and Afa’s nephew, Roman Reigns (son of Sika Anoa’i) have also issued statements.
Afa was devoted to his family, dominant in the ring, and dedicated to building future generations of @WWE Superstars. My thoughts are with the entire Anoa’i family as we remember the legendary Afa. https://t.co/S3bIsGbuNG
— Triple H (@TripleH) August 16, 2024
Our family has suffered another great loss with the passing of my uncle and WWE Hall of Famer, Gataivasā Afa Amituana'i Anoa'i. We thank everyone for their support and are comforted by the fact that he now rests in peace. Afa and my father, Pola’ivao Leati Sika Anoa’I were…
— Roman Reigns (@WWERomanReigns) August 16, 2024
Here are other tributes to Afa:
TNA is saddened to learn of the passing of Afa Anoa’i Sr., one-half of the legendary Wild Samoans tag team. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Anoa’i family, his friends and fans during this time. pic.twitter.com/6mww2L7dcw
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) August 16, 2024
RIP #AFA!
What a great man he was.— Dustin Rhodes (@dustinrhodes) August 16, 2024
Godspeed, Afa. Your contributions are unquestioned and legacy will live forever. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all he touched. Rest well, sir. https://t.co/89vSuDDgID
— Adam Pearce (@ScrapDaddyAP) August 16, 2024