Lance Anoa’i, a member of the renowned Samoan wrestling bloodline, has made headlines by announcing his departure from WWE earlier this month. Despite signing with the NXT roster in 2024, Anoa’i was unable to make his official debut due to injuries and has now set his sights on a new chapter in his career. With his 30-day non-compete clause soon to expire, Anoa’i is preparing to return to the independent circuit and has expressed interest in a significant destination: Japan.
Background and Career Highlights
Lance Anoa’i, the son of Samu, began his professional wrestling career over a decade ago in 2010. Before joining WWE, he was most notably associated with Major League Wrestling (MLW), where he enjoyed a successful run alongside notable figures like Jacob Fatu and Juicy Finau. Anoa’i also made appearances for Pro Wrestling NOAH, participating in the N-1 Victory tournament in 2023[1][2][3].
Prior to his WWE contract, Anoa’i had sporadic appearances with the company, including a memorable bout against Shane McMahon on Raw in May 2019, during which he was rescued by his cousin, Roman Reigns[2][3]. Despite these promising moments, Anoa’i’s tenure with NXT was cut short by injuries, leaving him unable to make an official TV debut[1][2][3].
Departure from WWE
Anoa’i took to social media to address his departure, expressing gratitude for the opportunity while also acknowledging the challenges he faced during his time with WWE. “I didn’t have the best of luck since I arrived I will not let this stop me from achieving to be great I’ve worked hard on the indies for 15 years Now let’s get back to work!” he stated, highlighting his readiness to return to the independent scene[3][4].
Sources close to Anoa’i indicate that he is looking forward to a fresh start, saying, “Lance is eager to get back to what he does best – wrestling. He’s been working hard on his recovery and is excited about the opportunities ahead, particularly in Japan where he feels he can make a real impact.”
Future Plans: A Return to Japan
In a recent update on his social media, Anoa’i revealed his goal for 2026: to return to Japan. This move is significant, given his previous experience with Pro Wrestling NOAH and his apparent desire to explore the Japanese wrestling scene more deeply[1][2]. Japan has historically been a vibrant and competitive wrestling market, offering a plethora of opportunities for wrestlers looking to hone their craft and build their reputation.
According to a WWE insider, Anoa’i’s decision to focus on Japan is not merely tactical but also strategic, as he aims to capitalize on the country’s rich wrestling culture and dedicated fan base. “Japan offers a unique wrestling environment that can help Lance grow both as a wrestler and as a performer. Given his background and previous experiences, he believes this is the right move for his career progression,” the insider noted.
Impact on the Wrestling Scene
Lance Anoa’i’s departure from WWE and his plans to return to Japan highlight the ongoing dynamic nature of the professional wrestling industry. As WWE continues to evolve with new talent and strategies, wrestlers like Anoa’i are seizing opportunities on the independent circuit to build their careers. This trend underscores the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in the ever-changing landscape of professional wrestling.
Anoa’i’s return to the independent scene, coupled with his aspirations in Japan, is likely to attract attention from fans and promoters alike. His legacy as part of the Anoa’i family, combined with his personal drive and determination, positions him for potential success in whatever path he chooses.
Conclusion
As Lance Anoa’i embarks on this new chapter, his journey serves as a testament to the resilience and flexibility required in the world of professional wrestling. With his sights firmly set on Japan and the independent circuit, Anoa’i is poised to make a significant impact in the years to come. Fans and industry observers will undoubtedly be watching his progress closely, eager to see how this talented wrestler from a legendary wrestling lineage will navigate the next stages of his career.