Afa Anoa’i dies at 81-years-old

His family has confirmed the unfortunate news.

Earlier today we passed along word of members of Afa Anoa’i’s family refuting reports that he died, instead making clear he was ill but still fighting and they would pass the word along when the time came. They used the opportunity to write inspirational words about their beloved family member, even knowing the reality of the situation.

That reality has come to pass, as his son, Samu, posted to Facebook that Afa, one half of the Wild Samoans tag team and a WWE Hall of Famer, has died at the age of 81:

“It is with deepest regret that we announce the passing of my father Afa Anoai Sr. It was a peaceful transition and he was surrounded by loved ones. Please respect our privacy as we morn our father.”

Afa had been suffering through health issues over the past year or so, including heart and back surgery in May. He eventually shut down his Florida promotion, World Xtreme Wrestling.

Along with his brother Sika, Afa became a three-time WWE Tag Team Champion as a member of the Wild Samoans. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the Wild Samoans were one of wrestling’s most successful and feared tag teams.

CagesideSeats sends its condolences to the entire Anoa’i family.