Siva Afi Passes Away At Age 77

Former WWE wrestler Siva Afi, real name Papaliitele Max Amata Taogaga, recently passed away.

Taogaga’s passing was first announced by Book Pro Wrestling earlier today on social media who stated that his passing was confirmed by his family.

“We are saddened to learn that Siva Afi has passed away, as confirmed by his family.

From his memorable WWF run to his work as Burt Reynolds’ bodyguard and stuntman, Siva lived a remarkable life. More importantly, he earned the respect of those who shared a locker room with him—so many of the wrestlers we’ve spoken with over the years remembered him as a genuinely kind and well-liked man.

Rest in peace, Siva Afi. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. ❤️🙏”

We are saddened to learn that Siva Afi has passed away, as confirmed by his family.

From his memorable WWF run to his work as Burt Reynolds’ bodyguard and stuntman, Siva lived a remarkable life. More importantly, he earned the respect of those who shared a locker room with… pic.twitter.com/UavbcdoVIY

— Book Pro Wrestlers (@BookProWrestler) July 16, 2026

Taogaga’s pro wrestling career spanned from 1974 to 1997 and was most known for his time in WWE under the ring name of Siva Afi.

Taogaga was trained by Peter Maivia and Steve Rickard.

Besides his time in WWE, Taogaga was also most known for his one-hour time limit draw match against Ric Flair for the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship in 1985 at the Aloha Stadium in Halawa, Hawaii that set the record for largest ever attendance for a pro wrestlng event in Hawaii that still stands to this day.

Taogaga’s notable wrestling career achievements and accolades included being a one-tme NWA Hawaii Heavyweight Champion, one-time Pacific International Champion, one-time NWA British Empire/Commonwealth Champion, and one-time NWA North American Heavyweight Champion.