The Roman Reigns wrestling dynasty stands as one of the most influential forces in professional wrestling, with the Anoa’i family producing champions, innovators, and cultural ambassadors for nearly forty years. Wrestling veteran Lloyd Anoa’i, a member of this esteemed line, recently reflected on his decades-long career and the evolution of his family’s impact across organizations including WWF (now WWE), ECW, and beyond.
Lloyd Anoa’i’s journey began at age 15 under the guidance of his father and uncle, both famed as The Wild Samoans. He quickly rose from independent shows to performing on television tapings and touring with WWF by the time he was 18.
“My early career was mostly independent shows, but by 18 I was doing TV tapings and hitting the road with WWF (now WWE). I also spent a lot of time in Puerto Rico with Carlos Colón’s Capital Sports, which was a huge part of my journey. That territory gave me great opportunities and matches, and I’ll always cherish my time there.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Memories from ECW and the Samoan Gangstas Era
In the late 1990s, Lloyd joined ECW, alongside his cousin Matt and brother Samu, forming The Samoan Gangstas. The group faced fierce rivalries with teams such as The Gangstas and The Dudley Boyz, bringing their unique style to the hardcore environment of ECW.
“We started in ECW around 1997. I was there with my cousin Matt (rest his soul) and my brother Samu. Together we were The Samoan Gangstas. We had some wild matches against The Gangstas (New Jack and Mustafa), The Dudley Boyz, and others. ECW was a different breed—it was raw, intense, and the fans were unlike anything else.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Lloyd recalled the vibrant energy backstage, where legends like Tommy Dreamer, Taz, and The Dudleys mingled. He credits Paul Heyman’s leadership for shaping the creative vision and hands-on management that made ECW standout.
“Paul Heyman ran a tight ship, but he’s a mastermind. He was hands-on with everything. He’d lay out what we were doing, and his creativity made our jobs easier.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Key Rivalries and Lessons from the Ring
Matches against formidable opponents, such as New Jack and Mustafa, were not just physically challenging but also turning points in Lloyd’s career.
“At first it was rough—New Jack was tough and stood his ground. But once we gave it back to him, he respected us. After that, we had great matches. His partner Mustafa was more easygoing, but New Jack was always the aggressive one. Still, once he respected you, things clicked.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Despite stints in WWE, Lloyd finds his accomplishments in Puerto Rico especially meaningful. Winning the Tag Team Championships there 14 times, he considers those years pivotal for his growth both as an athlete and performer.
Wild Samoan Training Center: Producing Stars
The reach of Anoa’i’s influence extends beyond the ring. At the family’s Wild Samoan Training Center in Pennsylvania, Lloyd’s father mentored future wrestling stars, shaping the early careers of Gene Snitsky, Billy Kidman, and even Batista.
“Back when my dad had the Wild Samoan Training Center in Pennsylvania, a lot of talent came through—Gene Snitsky, Billy Kidman, Batista. My dad even helped guys like Hulk Hogan and Junkyard Dog back in the day. Personally, I worked a lot with Batista early on. Seeing how many stars came from our gym makes me proud.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Cultural Pride and the Power of Family Symbolism
Lloyd described the powerful emotions behind a recent WWE project, where he filmed with family members to explain the significance of traditional Samoan symbols, like the ulafala necklace worn by Roman Reigns. He emphasized how these elements tie their legacy to their heritage.
“Paul Heyman called me and said Vince wanted me involved. So I went with the crew to Pensacola to shoot with my uncle, and then back to Orlando to film my dad. It was powerful, because the ulafala necklace Roman Reigns wears is real—it’s a symbol of our culture, passed down by our chiefs. Hearing my dad and uncle explain its importance, in Samoan and English, was straight from the heart.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Roman Reigns and the Rise of a New Era
Discussing the rise of Roman Reigns, Lloyd recalled his cousin’s transition to wrestling after a promising football career, and how Vince McMahon immediately recognized his star potential. The creation of the Tribal Chief persona has marked a new chapter for the family, with The Usos and Jacob Fatu also playing significant roles.
“Roman—Joe—is a natural. At first, he was focused on football, but once he entered wrestling, Vince knew right away he’d be a star. From FCW to The Shield, they built him up, and when he grew into the Tribal Chief character, he became unstoppable. I’m so proud of him, the twins (The Usos), Jacob Fatu—our whole family. They’re doing incredible things.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Potential Dream Matches and The Future
Lloyd remains open to the evolving narratives within WWE, expressing particular interest in storylines involving his family and the possibility of collaborating with wrestlers like Drew McIntyre.
“Of course, anything with my family is a natural storyline. But outside that, I’d love to work with Drew McIntyre. I’ve known him since Europe when he was young. Drew deserves more, and if built properly, he could draw huge money—especially in a program with Roman.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
The prospect of mega matches, such as a Roman Reigns and The Rock showdown, continues to capture Lloyd’s imagination and excitement for what lies ahead.
“I’d love to see it. That match would be a record-breaker. WWE teased it before and pivoted, which I thought was smart, but I don’t think it’s off the table. Even if The Rock isn’t wrestling full-time, he’ll be back in some capacity. The storylines in WWE always leave room for surprises.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
Heritage and Lasting Influence
For Lloyd Anoa’i, the opportunity to see his family, culture, and the island of Samoa represented on wrestling’s highest stage is an enduring source of pride.
“Watching my dad and uncle, The Wild Samoans, put Samoa on the map. They led the way for all of us. From Uncle Peter Maivia to Rikishi, The Usos, Roman—it’s a lineage I’m proud to be part of. Seeing our culture and family represented on the biggest stage, it touches my heart every time.”
Lloyd Anoa’i, Wrestler
As the Roman Reigns wrestling dynasty continues to evolve, its impact reaches beyond championship titles, influencing the landscape of professional wrestling and celebrating a vibrant Samoan heritage for generations to come.
