The wrestling community was struck with sadness this week as news of WWE Hall of Famer Sika Anoa’i’s passing spread on Tuesday afternoon. On Wednesday’s episode of “Busted Open Radio,” hosts Dave LaGreca, Tommy Dreamer, and WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray dedicated time to honor and remember the influential legacy of Anoa’i.
“We always try to celebrate life here,” Bully Ray began. “Sika led a long life; he was 79 years old. He was a huge, huge inspiration on my career, especially when I first saw wrestling.”
Ray’s reflections highlighted the profound influence Sika had on his career and the broader wrestling world. The loss of Anoa’i is particularly poignant given the current prominence of the Anoa’i family on WWE television, primarily through the ongoing Bloodline storyline.
“It’s definitely sad because when you look at what’s going on right now in the WWE with the entire Bloodline story and what Afa and Sika represent to the family,” Ray continued. “Their legacy is immense, and Sika’s passing is a significant moment for the wrestling community.”
In a touching tribute, Ray took to Twitter/X early Wednesday to announce that the day’s episode of “Busted Open” would be dedicated to celebrating Sika Anoa’i’s life and career. He shared a heartfelt video from the 2020 Hell in a Cell event, where Sika embraced his son, Roman Reigns, and presented him with a lei, marking a proud moment in their family’s legacy.
“What a proud moment that must have been for him,” Ray reflected. “Knowing that at the inception of Roman’s run when he became the Head of the Table, when this all began, that he was able to be on stage with his son.”
Roman Reigns himself took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to remember his father and express gratitude for the outpouring of support the Anoa’i family has received from the wrestling world. The bond between Sika and Roman, both as father and son and as members of a storied wrestling dynasty, was deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike.
Stephen’s Insight
The passing of Sika Anoa’i marks the end of an era for one of wrestling’s most legendary families. His legacy, not only as a wrestler but as a father and mentor, has left an indelible mark on the industry. The tributes from his son Roman Reigns and figures like Bully Ray are a testament to his profound impact. As the wrestling world mourns, it also celebrates the life of a man whose influence will continue to resonate through generations of performers and fans.