Who is Lance Anoa'i? WWE's newest signing

Lance Anoa’i is the latest Samoan signed by WWE

Lance Anoa’i was born on February 15, 1992. He is a rising American professional wrestler who proudly represents the Samoan roots.

Lately known for his charisma and in-ring talent, Lance has paved a unique path in the wrestling world, continuing to celebrate the Anoa’i family legacy.

Early family life

Lance Anoa’i’s family heritage in professional wrestling is monumental. His father, Samu, was a notable figure in WWE, wrestling in iconic teams like The Wild Samoans and The Headshrinkers.

His uncles, Afa Jr. and L.A. Smooth, also made names for themselves in the wrestling world. The Anoa’i family lineage has given wrestling fans stars like The Rock, Roman Reigns and the Usos, and Lance is now emerging as the latest family torchbearer.

Professional wrestling career in the indie circuit (2010-2024)

Lance Anoa’i began wrestling on April 3, 2010, winning his debut match against Chrono Chris at a National Wrestling League event in West Virginia.

He also wrestled regularly in his grandfather Afa Anoa’i’s promotion, World Xtreme Wrestling (WXW), where he often teamed up with family members like Samu, Afa Jr. and Sean Maluta.

Lance Anoa’i quickly expanded his horizons, joining Maryland Championship Wrestling (MCW) and Pro Wrestling Syndicate (PWS) in 2012. At PWS’s Supercard in 2013, he participated in a battle royal and later squared off against Sonjay Dutt.

His impressive performances earned him spots in high-profile matches, including a Six-Way showdown for the PWS Tri-State Championship in September 2013.

One of Lance’s standout moments on the independent circuit was his participation in the 2019 East Coast Wrestling Association (ECWA) Super 8 Tournament, where he emerged victorious in the 23rd annual competition.

Major League Wrestling (MLW) (2018–2023)

Lance Anoa’i’s time in Major League Wrestling (MLW) was significant in his career. He debuted on March 3, 2018, at MLW’s “Spring Break” event, though his match against Maxwell Jacob Friedman didn’t end in his favor. Over time, he found success as one-half of The Samoan Island Tribe, teaming with his father, Samu.

Lance Anoa’i’s major accomplishment in MLW came as a member of the Samoan SWAT Team alongside Juicy Finau. On January 7, 2023, they defeated Hustle & Power to capture the MLW World Tag Team Championships.

This title reign lasted for 182 days before they lost the championships to The Calling on July 8, marking a memorable chapter in his MLW journey. After announcing his release from MLW on October 29, Lance looked toward new opportunities.

Pro Wrestling Noah (2023)

Lance’s international career took off with Pro Wrestling Noah in Japan, where he joined the N-1 Victory 2023 tournament.

WWE NXT (2024-present)

WWE first noticed Lance during a series of tryouts and appearances between 2015 and 2019. His WWE debut came on January 2, 2015, in a tag match on SmackDown, followed by a 2017 NXT match against The Authors of Pain.

Lance had another tryout in 2019, which led to an appearance on Raw on May 27. In this match, he represented the Anoa’i family against Shane McMahon, ultimately falling to McMahon but receiving backup from cousin Roman Reigns.

Per Fightful, Lance Anoa'i signed with WWE this past summer but has not made any appearances due to injury.🚨🚨🚨ANOTHER BLOODLINE MEMBER ON HIS WAY 😭 pic.twitter.com/OfAiCm84fn

— EliteRockerz 𝕏 (@EliteClubS0B) November 7, 2024

In the summer of 2024, Lance officially signed with WWE, joining the NXT brand. Though his in-ring debut has been delayed due to an injury, fans eagerly await his return, hoping to witness the newest chapter of the Anoa’i dynasty unfold.

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