Samoan WWE legend Siva Afi has tragically passed away at the age of 77. As reported by In The Ring Wrestling, he was most well-known for being a wrestler in the 1980s.
Book Pro Wrestlers, a firm that helps fans and event organizers liaise with pro wrestlers, confirmed his passing. They explained in a post on social media, "We are saddened to learn that Siva Afi has passed away, as confirmed by his family."
"From his memorable WWF run to his work as Burt Reynolds' bodyguard and stuntman, Siva lived a remarkable life." The WWE legend served as the Navajo Joe star's bodyguard for a number of years during his acting career.
"More importantly, he earned the respect of those who shared a locker room with him. So many of the wrestlers we've spoken with over the years remembered him as a genuinely kind and well-liked man."
The statement ended by saying their thoughts were with Afi's family and friends.
Siva Afi was born Papali'itele Max Amata Taogaga on April 9, 1949, in Samoa. Having grown up on the island nation, he presented himself entirely with his Samoan roots. He was known for his fire knife dancing, as well as his presence in the ring
Videos by Wide Open Country
Tributes Poured in for the WWE Legend
Fans remembered the WWE legend, sharing memories of his time in the ring.
One commenter wrote, "When WWF started on tv here in Oz I remember one night on maybe Superstars he came out with the Islanders and I thought he was going to be the third Islander but the following week he was on his own again".
Another commenter wrote, "He faced The Honky Tonk in the final match at my 1st WWF event Dec 5, 1986 in Sacramento the night before Honky Tonk Man took on Jimmy Hart as his manager on TV."
Another commenter mentioned the supposed most famous night of Afi's career. "Afi's most famous match was a 60-minute draw with NWA champ Ric Flair at Aloha Stadium before what is still the largest crowd for pro wrestling in Hawaii."
May he rest in peace. Our thoughts are with his friends and family.
