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A Wrestling Legacy Cut Short
Lia Maivia, a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling, left an indelible mark on the industry. As the wife of Samoan wrestling legend Peter Maivia and the grandmother of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, her influence extended beyond the ring. However, her life was tragically cut short, leaving fans and family mourning her loss.
The Woman Behind the Wrestlers
Born Ofelia Fuataga on August 6, 1931, in Lalomanu, Aleipata, Western Samoa, Lia Maivia became a wrestling promoter and a trailblazer in a male-dominated field. Her journey began when she took over Polynesian Pro Wrestling (PPW) in Hawaii after the death of her husband, “High Chief” Peter Maivia, in 1982. She became one of the first female promoters in the wrestling world.
The Heartbreaking End
On October 19, 2008, Lia Maivia suffered a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, at her home in Davie, Florida. Conflicting reports about her age circulated, with most outlets stating she was 81 years old, while The Miami Herald reported her age as 77. Regardless of the exact age, her passing left a void in the wrestling community.
A Lasting Impact
Lia Maivia’s legacy lives on through her family and the wrestlers she supported. Her grandson, Dwayne Johnson, fondly remembers her spirited nature and her unexpected intervention during one of Peter Maivia’s matches. Her contribution to wrestling history remains significant, and the Anoaʻi family established the “Lia Maivia Scholarship” in her honor.
In the annals of wrestling, Lia Maivia’s name stands as a testament to determination, resilience, and love for the sport. Her cause of death may have silenced her, but her impact continues to resonate in the squared circle.
