Remembering Rosey: Roman Reigns' Brother In The WWE Family

21 May, 2025

Who was the man behind the moniker "Rosey," and how did his life intertwine with the powerhouse that is Roman Reigns? The name "Rosey" resonates with wrestling fans, a testament to the legacy of Matthew Tapunu'u Anoa'i, a man whose life was deeply woven into the fabric of the Anoa'i wrestling dynasty and the shadow of his more famous brother, Roman Reigns.

The world of professional wrestling is often characterized by larger-than-life personas, dramatic storylines, and a close-knit community. Within this sphere, the Anoa'i family stands as a dynasty, a lineage that has produced some of the most iconic and influential figures in the industry. At the heart of this family is a story of brotherhood, legacy, and the enduring impact of those who have left their mark on the squared circle. Matthew Tapunu'u Anoa'i, known to the wrestling world as Rosey, was an integral part of this story, a wrestler whose career, though perhaps less celebrated than that of his younger brother, Roman Reigns, holds its own significance.

Born on April 7, 1970, Matthew Anoa'i embarked on his professional wrestling journey, eventually making his mark in the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Rosey, as he was known, was not just a wrestler; he was a member of a family deeply rooted in the history of professional wrestling. His father, Sika Anoa'i, alongside his uncle Afa, were The Wild Samoans, a legendary tag team inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. This heritage provided Rosey with an intrinsic understanding of the craft, the physicality, and the performance that defines professional wrestling. This legacy played a significant role in shaping his career.

In November 1995, Matthew Anoa'i stepped into the ring and began his professional wrestling career. He brought with him the weight of his family's legacy and a dedication to the sport. His journey through the wrestling world was marked by both individual achievements and collaborative efforts. While he might not have reached the stratospheric heights of his brother Roman Reigns, Rosey established himself as a respected figure within the industry. One of his notable achievements was winning the World Tag Team Championship alongside The Hurricane. This victory not only added to his list of accomplishments but also showcased his ability to connect with audiences and deliver compelling performances.

Rosey's career, however, was not without its challenges. In January 2014, he was hospitalized due to health issues, including congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation. These conditions would unfortunately lead to his untimely passing on April 17, 2017, at the age of 47. His death sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, with fans and fellow wrestlers alike expressing their grief and paying tribute to his memory. The impact of his loss was deeply felt, especially by his family, including his brother Roman Reigns, who has often spoken of his love and respect for Rosey.

Before his career in the WWE, Joe Anoa'i, the younger brother of Rosey, was a promising athlete, playing defensive tackle for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football team. However, he would ultimately follow in his family's footsteps and transition to professional wrestling, adopting the persona of Roman Reigns. Since then, Roman Reigns has become a global icon, holding multiple championships and headlining major events. His journey through the wrestling world has been marked by triumphs and challenges, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant figures in recent wrestling history. Roman Reigns has always honored his family and acknowledged the impact his brother Rosey had on his life, and his career.

The emotional connection between Roman Reigns and his late brother was further highlighted in the WWE and A&E Biography: Legends episode. During the episode, Reigns was presented with a WWE.com interview with Matt Anoa'i, a moment that underscored the deep bond between the brothers and the profound impact of Roseys memory.

Roseys passing also served as a reminder of the personal sacrifices and the physical toll that professional wrestling can take on its performers. Despite his health issues, Rosey continued to pursue his passion for the sport, leaving behind a legacy that goes beyond championships and accolades. His contributions to the wrestling world, his family's influence, and his impact on the legacy of the Anoa'i family remain noteworthy. He was remembered not only for his accomplishments in the ring but also for his character and the bonds he forged with his peers and fans.

The Anoa'i family, with its rich history and profound influence, serves as a symbol of perseverance, tradition, and the bonds of kinship. Rosey's life, his career, and his legacy all contribute to the story of this extraordinary family. The younger brother, Roman Reigns, carrying on the family name and legacy, honors the memory of his brother. Together, the story of Rosey and Roman Reigns epitomizes the spirit of family, resilience, and the enduring appeal of professional wrestling.

Category	Details
Full Name	Matthew Tapunu'u Anoa'i
Ring Name(s)	Rosey
Date of Birth	April 7, 1970
Date of Death	April 17, 2017 (Age 47)
Family	Son of WWE Hall of Famer Sika Anoa'i; Brother of Roman Reigns; Part of the Anoa'i Wrestling Family
Professional Wrestling Career	Debuted in 1995; Wrestled in WWE and other promotions
Championships & Accomplishments	WWE World Tag Team Champion (with The Hurricane)
Health Issues	Diagnosed with congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation; Hospitalized in 2014
Legacy	Remembered as a member of the Anoa'i family and a tag team wrestler
Reference	WWE.com

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