WWE Legend Rikishi "Grateful to be Alive" Following Unexpected Emergency Surgery

WWE Hall of Famer Solofa Fatu Jr., better known as Rikishi, is currently recovering after undergoing unexpected emergency surgery due to a sudden health issue.

​The wrestling legend a member of the legendary Anoa’i wrestling dynasty, was forced to cancel several upcoming independent appearances to focus on his recovery.

The news broke around the weekend of October 18, 2025, when a local promotion, GLCW, announced Rikishi would be unable to attend an event due to a "health emergency that required immediate surgery."

While the specific nature of the surgery has not been disclosed to the public, Rikishi has since broken his silence on the matter, sharing a message with his fans

The Hall of Famer posted on Instagram with the caption:

“God Is Amazing. Grateful to be alive. We share blessings today and forever more.I’m proud of my boys ( missing few more ) #FatuAnoai Stay safe and know theres More work to do

​Rikishi stated that he is “grateful to be alive " following the procedure and has asked fans to continue sending their love, support, and prayers for his quick recovery.

The entire professional wrestling community & all of us here at AFW are sending well wishes to Rikishi as he focuses on getting back to full health.

Sources:

• ​Wrestling News Outlets (e.g., SEScoops, WrestlingNewsCo)

• ​Social Media Announcements from Local Promotions (re: Canceled Appearances)

• ​Rikishi's Public Statement ( Instagram.)

Kimster AFW.