WWE Hall of Famer Afa Anoa'i Dies at 80

As a gamer who’s spent countless hours immersed in the vibrant world of WWE, I can say that the loss of Afa Anoa’i, or the Wild Samoan, feels like the end of an era. I remember cheering him on during my childhood, witnessing his unparalleled strength and resilience in the ring. His passing is a poignant reminder of the human side behind the larger-than-life characters we admire.

80-year-old WWE Hall of Famer Afa Anoa’i, famously known as The Wild Samoan, has sadly passed away. In a poignant gesture, his wife Lynn and daughter Vale paid heartfelt tributes to him while announcing the sad news. Afa had been battling health problems for quite some time, with Vale providing further details about his struggles, noting that his condition deteriorated significantly over the past month. Afa leaves behind his loving wife Lynn, as well as their seven children. Below, you can read Lynn and Vale’s full tributes. Our deepest sympathies go out to the Anoa’i family during this trying time.

Tribute from Vale Anoa’i

WWE Hall of Famer Afa Anoa'i Dies at 80

In my own words, I would say:

As a child who was fortunate enough to grow up with a loving and strong father as my guiding light, I can say without hesitation that he played an indelible role in shaping who I am today. The memories of our time together are etched deeply within me, from the countless laughter-filled moments during our family vacations to the quiet, comforting presence he provided during life’s most challenging times.

Since January, I’ve been mentally preparing myself for the possibility of saying farewell to my father due to his two heart attacks. In March, when he fell and fractured his back in multiple places, requiring major surgery, it seemed inevitable that I would have to say goodbye then. His heart valve replacement surgery, as well as his second back surgery, also had me bracing myself for the prospect of saying a final goodbye. Even the news of Uncle Sika’s passing left me prepared for the possibility of saying farewell to my father.

Over the past month, I’ve been emotionally preparing myself to bid farewell to my beloved father, as his health deteriorated and he was placed under hospice care. However, I now understand that I won’t have to actually say goodbye because an integral part of him will forever remain with me. I love you, Dad. This isn’t truly a goodbye, for I know I’ll never lose you. Instead, this is merely the end of your physical presence on Earth. You will always be cherished, honored, missed, and admired. Truly, you were the strongest individual I’ve ever encountered. The clock ticks for us all, but you fought valiantly until the very end. You surpassed expectations more times than anyone else ever has. You are, without a doubt, our uncontested hero. My affection for you knows no bounds.

In simpler terms, “I’ll never experience life without you, as I feel you’re always by my side.” And, “Thank you everyone so much for the love, respect, tales, and moments you’ve shared with me these past few days.”

Tribute from Lynn Anoa’i

I am heartbroken to pass on the sad news that we have lost my cherished husband, who was affectionately known as your Pops, WWE Hall of Famer, Ava ‘The Wild Samoan Anoa’i. Enveloped by a sea of love from our family and with divine assistance from heavenly angels offering comfort, peace, love, and tranquility, God has called Afa home.

AF/Pops was an incredibly strong individual who we’ve all admired greatly, and there’s no question in my mind that he’s now joyfully reconnecting with our cherished ones, particularly his soulmate and tag-team partner, his dearest brother, Sika! I adore you, Sweetheart. You battled valiantly until the very end! God is always good. He’s always good, God.

Our thoughts are with the Anoa’i family at this difficult time.

2024-08-17 00:09

WWE Hall of Famer Afa Anoa’i Dies at 80

Tribute from Vale Anoa’i

Tribute from Lynn Anoa’i

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