Lance Anoa’i has announced that his in-ring career is coming to an end. The member of the storied Anoa’i family plans to retire from professional wrestling in March 2027, wrapping up a career spanning nearly 17 years.
In a post on Monday, Anoa’i explained that the decision comes down to family. He wants to reclaim the weekends he spent on the road and be more present for his wife and children.
“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!”
Anoa’i had a brief stint under WWE contract from 2024 to 2025 but never made it to the ring. He suffered a sports hernia during his first week at the Performance Center, and after returning to training, injured his shoulder. He left the company in October.
Since then, he has returned to the independent circuit and also ventured into Power Slap. His debut came on April 17, 2026, when he defeated Amanpreet Singh by TKO in the second round.
Before his time with WWE, Lance captured the MLW World Tag Team Championship alongside Juicy Finau and competed in Pro Wrestling NOAH’s N-1 Victory in 2023. He also faced Shane McMahon on the May 27, 2019 episode of Monday Night RAW in a storyline involving Roman Reigns.