On May 26, Court Bauer announced that Lance Anoa’i was the newest signing to MLW.
Lance is the son of Samu and the cousin of Roman Reigns. He was sign, in part, to join the Samoan Swat Team alongside Jacob Fatu & Juicy Finau. Lance had made regular appearances for MLW over the years, but was not a contracted talent.
Speaking to MuscleManMalcolm, Lance explained his decision to sign with MLW.
"I was very hesitant about signing. They offered me a deal a few years ago, it was a little too long for me, but once I took a hard thought about it and saw the success, how well they're doing, especially with Jacob there, I just wanted to be part of it. After I contacted them about doing Philadelphia and they said, 'we want you long-term.' The rest is history. I just signed a multi-year deal and I'm ready to rock n roll," he said.
Anoa'i was sidelined for the start of 2022 after he underwent shoulder surgery in December 2021. He returned to action at MLW Kings Of Colosseum 2022 on May 13, teaming with Fatu.
Speaking about his injury and worry that he may never be signed by a company, Anoa'i said, "I was down for a little bit because, as some people know, I had shoulder surgery in December. I had torn rotator cuff, torn labrum and bicep, it was a long recovery and I had a lot of time on my hands and thinking like, 'I don't know.' Honestly, I was calling it quits after another year or two if I wasn't getting signed. I wasn't pressured into signing with MLW, but once they offered me, 'this is what I want to do.' I'm gonna start making a bigger name for myself, carry on the family legacy, and from there, who knows. Maybe I re-sign after a few years or who knows what happens from there."
Anoa'i teamed with Fatu at MLW Battle Riot IV and competed in the Battle Riot bout.
Fans can find full spoilers from MLW Battle Riot IV by clicking here.
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