The Anoai family holds a unique and powerful legacy in professional wrestling, unmatched by any other lineage. Their family tree, stretching from the legendary Rocks to modern stars like Yokoyama, seems never-ending. WWE frequently introduces new members of this wrestling dynasty, to the point it could soon be named after Zilla Fatu. Zilla is the son of the late Umaga, a WWE legend, and is currently carving out his own path in wrestling promotions with hopes of making it to WWE someday. Despite hardships, including losing his father young and serving time in prison at 15, Zilla is determined to succeed.
Umaga, born Edward Fatu, was part of the Anoai family through his mother, a sister to the wild Samoan wrestling legends Afa and Sika. His brothers include notable wrestlers Rikishi and Tonga. Umaga began his WWE career in 2001 as part of the tag team 3-Minute Warning, alongside Jamal. After some success, Umaga returned in 2005 as a singles competitor, becoming a two-time Intercontinental Champion and a major star before his untimely death in 2009 at 36, leaving behind four children, including Zilla.
Zilla Fatu’s life took a difficult turn without his father’s guidance. He faced legal issues and juvenile detention throughout his youth, ultimately serving six years in a Texas prison for a Class A felony committed at age 15. While incarcerated, Zilla reached a turning point, embracing reading, counseling, and self-improvement to change the course of his life.
Although Umaga did not want his children to pursue wrestling, Zilla found his calling in the sport. After struggling and sleeping on a couch for 10 months, he decided to follow his passion, supported by his mother. Once he completed parole, Zilla contacted Booker T, a longtime family friend and wrestling legend, who took him under his wing and trained him. Zilla has since become a prominent wrestler in various promotions, including GCW and Hog, even wrestling Bully Ray on TNA’s Slammiversary Pre-Show. At 25, he’s not yet in WWE, but his current trajectory suggests he will be soon.
Fan Take: For WWE fans, Zilla Fatu’s story is a powerful testament to overcoming adversity and the enduring impact of wrestling legacies. His rise not only honors his father Umaga’s enormous contribution to the sport but also promises the continuation of one of wrestling’s most beloved dynasties, injecting fresh energy and talent into WWE’s future.
