Lance Anoa’i is exploring a drastically different career path following his departure from WWE earlier this year. The member of the legendary Anoa’i wrestling dynasty was released from his contract in October after a tenure plagued by injuries that prevented him from ever making his official in-ring debut for the company. Now, he is looking to trade wrestling boots for open-hand strikes.
Anoa’i was present at the Power Slap combine held earlier this month, signaling a potential shift into the world of competitive slap fighting. Speaking to Slap News in a new interview, he opened up about the thought process behind attending the event and how his background prepared him for the unique sport.
Post-WWE Move
“Man, honestly, it was a tough decision whether or not to come, man. I used to get smacked as a kid man, didn’t get paid for it. Now, let me try to do it now and get paid and try to knock somebody out, man,” Anoa’i said.
The transition comes at a pivotal time for the 33-year-old grappler. Having spent over a decade on the independent circuit before finally signing with WWE in the summer of 2024, his release was a significant setback. However, Anoa’i revealed that the disappointment of losing his WWE contract has become a primary motivator in his new endeavors.
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When asked if the release played a part in his decision to try Power Slap, he was candid about his mindset. He explained that the need to support his family has driven him to step outside his comfort zone.
“Honestly, it really is. I recently got released with the WWE. I’m a professional wrestler for 15 years. I had a few surgeries that held me back. But man, yeah, it’s fueling me to be better and provide for my family, my wife, my kids. Man, just wanna go out and try something different and man, let’s do it,” Anoa’i said.
WWE Tenure
Anoa’i’s time in WWE was unfortunately defined by medical issues. After signing a developmental deal, he suffered injuries that kept him on the shelf for the duration of his contract. Despite being part of the most dominant family in modern wrestling—which includes Roman Reigns, The Usos, and Solo Sikoa—he never got the opportunity to join the Bloodline storyline on television.
While Power Slap appears to be his immediate focus, Anoa’i has not completely closed the door on professional wrestling. Following his release, he took to social media to outline his goals for the future, specifically mentioning a desire to return to Japan in 2026. Anoa’i previously competed for Pro Wrestling NOAH, where he participated in the prestigious N-1 Victory tournament in 2023. Whether he lands a contract with Dana White’s Power Slap league or returns to the squared circle, the Anoa’i family member is determined to prove his resilience.
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