34-year old Lance Anoa’i announced on Instagram Monday, he is retiring from pro wrestling in March 2027. He said that he is ready to spend more time with his family.
Anoa’i signed with WWE in the Summer of 2024 and had been assigned to its NXT brand. However, on October 10, 2025, it was announced Anoa’i was released by WWE from his contract. He never wrestling a single match during his short time in the company.
Anoa’i did make sporadic appearances in WWE as an enhancement talent in 2015, 2017 and 2019. He is a one time MLW World Tag Team Champion with Juicy Finau. Anoa’i’s father is Samu, who wrestled in various promotions in the 1980’s and 1990s, including WWE, WCW, NJPW and ECW.
After almost 17 years in professional wrestling, I will be officially calling time on my in-ring career in March 2027, once I reach that 17-year milestone.
This journey has given me memories, friendships, battles, victories, losses, and experiences that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me, believed in me, shared a locker room with me, and helped me along the way.
But now, it’s time to start preparing for a new chapter.
For so many years, wrestling has taken up my weekends, my time, and countless moments away from the people I love most. I’ve reached a point where I want to dedicate that time to my wife and my kids and be there for the moments that matter most.
I also want to say how proud I am of my family and everything they continue to do in this business. I love what they’re building, I love being part of it in any way I can, and I will always support them 100% in everything they do going forward.
Walking away from something you’ve dedicated nearly 17 years of your life to isn’t easy. Wrestling will always be a part of who I am, and I’ll always love this business.
Thank you, wrestling, for everything you’ve given me. ❤️
17 years. One hell of a ride. And in March 2027… it’s time for family.
This isn’t goodbye just yet though. We still have a few months to go!