Pro Wrestling's Pacific Bloodline

From the rise of the Maivia and Anoa‘i families to the cultural impact of The Bloodline, New Zealand-born Sāmoan writer Ite Lemalu traces how Pacific Island wrestlers fought for visibility, reclaimed their stories, and inspired new generations. Drawing from decades of magazine clippings, VHS tapes, and digital storytelling, Lemalu connects past and present through his own lived experience, from childhood fandom to working behind the scenes at NJPW TAMASHII.

Endorsed by Vale Anoa‘i, daughter of the late Afa Anoa‘i of The Wild Samoans, the book has been accepted into the national library of Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum. As the first professional wrestling book in Te Papa’s 160-year history, it was selected for its cultural value and is now preserved as part of the nation’s official record of Pacific storytelling. The book is also available in public libraries across Aotearoa, ensuring it remains accessible to readers, students, and fans nationwide.

Blending sharp cultural analysis with heartfelt homage, this book captures the strength, strategy, and soul of Polynesian wrestling across four decades, two hemispheres, and countless rings.

From aiga to arena, this isn’t just a wrestling story. It’s about legacy, identity, and taking ownership of your narrative.