Former WWE star Samoa Joe has been a huge attraction in the pro wrestling world for over two decades. The 44-year-old performer started his in-ring career in late 1990’s and has been a dominating name ever since then, with numerous accomplishments throughout his career.
Due to the star he still is, The Samoan Submission Machine is often compared to the top performers in the industry. But alongside this, his Samoan origin has always led to the speculation if he’s related to Dwayne Johnson, so let’s check out if it’s actually true?
WWE’s popular Anoa’i clan, which belongs to the American Samoa, is one of the most well-reputed clans in the industry. Even though Joe is originally from the Samoan origin, the reputation of the Anoa’is is the reason why he’s often considered to be from the same clan.
As Dwayne Johnson is arguably the most successful superstar among the Anoa’is, speculations always arise if Joe is also related to him. But, the former NXT Champion is a first generation performer, whereas the Hollywood actor belongs to one of WWE’s greatest families. As both of them are from different backgrounds, they aren’t really related to each other.
Samoa Joe’s family and origin
Nuufolau Joel Seanoa, popularly known by his ring name Samoa Joe, was born on March 17, 1979, in Orange County, California. The Samoan Submission Machine was born into a family that was in charge of operating Tiare Productions, a well-known Polynesian dance troupe.
Joe spent his early life in Huntington Beach and also spent time in Hawaii’s Ewa Beach during his childhood years. He was involved in extracurricular activities from a very young age and made his stage debut at just 5 during the opening of the 1984 Summer Olympics. Following this, he achieved the title of California State Junior Judo Champion.
Seanoa also had an interest in football and played it professionally during his days at Ocean View High School. After his education, he started taking pro wrestling training and went on to become a highly accomplished pro wrestling personality through his dedication. After being with UPW, ROH, TNA, and WWE, the veteran currently performs in AEW.
Dwayne Johnson’s Samoan roots
The People’s Champion may not be related to Samoa Joe, but he still has deep Samoan roots. Dwayne’s father, legendary pro wrestler Rocky Johnson, was of African-Canadian descent. But the Hollywood star has a Samoan connection from his mother’s side.
Johnson’s mother, Ata Maivia, belongs to the great Samoan heritage, and that’s the reason why the WWE legend’s ethnicity is strongly tied to the Pacific islands. The Rock’s roots in Samoan culture have had a great influence on him, as its values have been instilled in his personality and character. (Via: thecoconet.tv)
Dwayne’s connection with iconic heritage and his father’s family heritage played major roles in his success throughout his WWE career. After being at the peak of popularity in the pro wrestling industry, the star turned himself into one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood.
Even though the megastar is no longer seen in the Stamford-based promotion, he remains a popular figure among fans. The audience craves to get a look at The People’s Champion in a WWE ring, and that’s why he’s often mentioned in the rumors about returning to the Triple H-led promotion at events like WrestleMania.