Tribute to Yokozuna: A Great Champion and Friend
As I sit here in my office late Thursday night, October 26th, I still can’t believe that Rodney Anoai, my friend and co-worker, has left this world. The thought that he will no longer be with us is hard to grasp. Yoko was not just a great champion; he was a great friend. He had a heart bigger than life itself, and once you became his friend, he would give selflessly from that heart. That was Rodney.
Rodney’s ability in the ring was unmatched. As a big man, he was the best by far. Every time he walked through the curtains of the World Wrestling Federation, you could feel the energy in the air shift. Yoko had that magic—the ability to captivate and electrify an audience just by stepping into the ring. He was a true Superstar and one of the greatest champions in WWF history.
Memories with a True Friend
I think back to the times we shared, like when Yoko and some of the other guys on tour came over to my house for lunch. We were wrestling in Tampa, Florida, that night, and we sat around my home, talking about the business, laughing, and joking. Yoko loved being around the boys, and his camaraderie with us was genuine. His presence brought warmth and laughter wherever he went. He will be deeply missed by all of us who were fortunate enough to call him a friend.
When asked about the greatest matches I had with Yoko, two instantly come to mind. The first was one night at Madison Square Garden for the WWF Title, and the second was a Cage Match in Montreal, Canada. Both matches were unforgettable, not just because of the competition, but because they were moments I shared with my friend, Rodney Anoai. Those memories will always hold a special place in my heart.
A Chance to Reconnect
I was blessed to have spent time with Rodney recently. We were together on tour in Saudi Arabia this past July, and we’d been speaking on the phone frequently since then. He called me just before he left for London, and I’m grateful for those conversations. It had been a while since we’d last seen each other, and that time together gave us a chance to reconnect on a personal level. We talked about more than just wrestling; we talked about life. I thank God for allowing me that opportunity. It would be so much harder to handle his passing if we hadn’t had that time to rebuild our bond.
You know, looking back, the great matches and moments in the ring seem so small compared to the value of having Rodney here with us today. Life is precious and a gift from God. It’s important to cherish the time we have with our loved ones and friends. Let’s all strive to make a difference in this world, one that is greater than ourselves.
My Deepest Sympathies
To Rodney’s immediate family and relatives, I send my deepest sympathy. I have spoken with some of you, and I pray that God gives you strength and peace during this time of loss. Only He can provide the comfort you need. May God bless you all in this time of sorrow.
Rest in peace, my friend. You were a great champion and an even greater human being. You will be missed, but never forgotten.
Tatanka
