When WWE announced its November 2024 NXT Class, one of the biggest reactions was for Lance Anoa’i.
The Bloodline civil war loomed at Survivor Series that year, and fans remembered Samu’s son from when he faced Shane McMahon on Raw during Roman Reigns 2019 feud with Shane McMahon. There was a lot of interest in Anoa’i joining either Reigns, The Usos, and Sami Zayn’s or Solo Sikoa and his MFT’s side of the WarGames fight.
Lance didn’t make it to that battle, to the main roster, or even to NXT television. A series of injuries made those and other things fans had been hoping for impossible. Anoa’i was released last November.
He wrestled fairly regularly on the independent scene until May, when he embarked on a Power Slap career. Now, Anoa’i’s announced that he’s wrapping up his career in pro wrestling. He’s still working, but that stops in about eight months:
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!
Pro wrestlers rarely retire for good, and certainly not on the first try. Do you think Lance Anoa’i’s will stick?
