Former WWE Undisputed Universal Champion Roman Reigns recently paid tribute to WWE Hall of Famer and his father Sika Anoa’i, who recently passed away.
‘The Tribal Chief’ has been away from the company since his defeat by Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40, marking the end of his historic nearly four-year-long title reign. It has been noted that his hiatus coincided with a personal loss, as his father, Sika Anoa’i, passed away at the age of 79 on June 25th. The wrestling community was saddened bythe loss of this legendary figure, and Reigns has been deeply affected by his father’s passing.
A photo from the memorial service showed Roman Reigns alongside Rikishi and Reno Anoa’i, also known as Black Pearl, highlighting the close-knit nature of the Anoa’i wrestling dynasty.
Roman Reigns, Rikishi & Reno at Sika Anoa’i funeral services.
Rest in Power, Legend.
❤️🩸
🎥 (thesamoansupremacy) pic.twitter.com/AfW6vTl4kj
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) July 6, 2024
A video clip has emerged courtesy of Reigns’ cousin, Zilla Fatu, on Instagram as ‘The Head of the Table’ is seen delivering a heartfelt eulogy for his father. Reigns recalled a powerful life lesson when Sika threw him into the deep end of an Olympic-sized pool, teaching him to swim or sink—a lesson that profoundly impacted his career.
“I told him I’m good over here, we’re good. Next thing I know, I am looking left, looking right, my hair is snatched, and he launches me into the deep end of this Olympic-sized pool,” Reigns recounted.
Sika’s passing certainly marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. However, Roman Reigns remains determined to carry his father’s legacy. Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of The Tribal Chief to WWE television. The current storyline involving The Bloodline has seen Reigns temporarily ousted from his position as the Head of the Table, and his return promises to shake up the ongoing narrative.