The wrestling world used social media to remember WWE Hall of Famer Sika, who passed away yesterday at age 79.
WWE paid tribute to Sika during last night’s episode of NXT, and will do so again this Friday on Smackdown.
“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,” the company wrote in a post on X. “WWE extends its condolences to Anoa’i’s family, friends and fans.”
AEW wrote, “AEW and the wrestling world mourn the passing of the legendary Wild Samoan Sika. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans.”
TNA Wrestling also sent its condolences to the family, adding, “TNA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary Samoan wrestler Sika Anoaʻi. We offer our sincerest condolences to his friends and family.”
Rikishi, Sika’s nephew, wrote that the first thing that comes to mind when he thinks of his uncle is mentor. He was also his first trusted adviser, confidant, and someone who always spoke his mind.
“As a professional, he showed me all of the ropes, (literally) and guided me on ‘roadlife,’ and being one of the boys,” Rikishi wrote. “But more importantly, as my Uncle, he taught me to slow down, take my time, and truly ENJOY life. We both loved living in Pensacola and appreciated the slower pace of life.”
Sika’s niece, Vale Anoa’i, wrote that her uncle was her dad’s (Afa) closest brother, best friend, tag team partner, and soulmate.
“There was no bond like theirs. Uncle Sika loved the family and Samoan culture more than anything. This loss is agonizing for all of us, but especially for my Dad. Please keep him in your prayers,” she wrote.
Several others also used social media to remember Sika.
Jey Uso: “I had to (Raising his index finger). One time for unk. RIP”
NWA: “The National Wrestling Alliance sends condolences to the family friends and fans of Sika Anoa’i”
Ric Flair: I’m saddened to hear about the loss of Sika! Your legacy will live on through the greatness of your son Roman! Rest in peace my brother!”
Bully Ray: The 1st tag team I ever saw and the reason I wanted to be a tag team wrestler was The Wild Samoans. My sincere condolences to the entire extended Anoa’i family. GOD BLESS and RIP.”
Natalya: “Sending so much love today to @WWERomanReigns and the entire Anoa’i family. My dad always spoke so highly of Sika and Afa and my grandfather had so much respect for The Wild Samoans when they wrestled in Stampede Wrestling. Sika was a legend and a pioneer in our industry in so many ways.”
Michael PS Hayes: “Words cannot express my feelings on the passing of Sika. If not for Sika and Afa, there would be no Michael Hayes, Terry Gordy, Fabulous Freebirds, period. Sika was as always like an older brother to me. Prayers to Afa, Joe and the entire family. Now Sika rests with God.”
Matt Hardy: “Saddened to learn about Sika Anoa’i passing today. The few times I met him, he was very kind & friendly. My condolences go out to his family, friends & fans.”
Adam Pearce: “Godspeed, Sika. Your legacy and contributions to our wonderful industry can never be questioned. My heart goes out to the entire Anoa’i family, their friends, and everyone touched by this. Rest well, sir. My respect, always.”
Taz: “When I was high school, WWF did a show in our gymnasium. We (the football team) was security for the guys to go to their cars after the show. I had the honor of walking Afa & Sika to their vehicles and they both were so nice to me had me laughing a lot, great memory! My deepest condolences to @WWERomanReigns on the passing of his father along with the entire Anoa’i family on losing this HOF’er & pure legend. RIP Sika.”
