How Is Jacob Fatu Related to Roman Reigns? Family Tree Explained
Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu are set to clash at WWE Backlash on Saturday, May 9 in Tampa, Florida.
Before Fatu signed with WWE, fans familiar with his work on the independent scene had long envisioned a match like this. When he eventually debuted, however, it was as part of Bloodline 2.0 under Solo Sikoa's leadership. As a result, he and Reigns have shared minimal time on screen.
Arguably, they are two of the most dominant active members of the Anoa'i family today. So, how exactly are they related?
How Jacob Fatu and Roman Reigns Are Actually Related
Roman Reigns is the son of Sika Anoa'i, one-half of the legendary Wild Samoans. Jacob Fatu, meanwhile, comes from a different branch of the same family-he is the son of Sam Fatu, better known to WWE fans as The Tonga Kid.
Here's Roman Reigns explaining the Anoa'i family tree:
That makes Fatu and Reigns part of the same extended Anoa'i lineage, but not immediate cousins. The connection runs through a broader network of siblings and cousins that includes Rikishi-who is both Reigns' cousin and Fatu's uncle.
In simple terms:
- Roman Reigns and Rikishi are first cousins
- Rikishi is the brother of Jacob Fatu's father
- That places Jacob Fatu one generation below Reigns within the same extended family tree
Who Is Jacob Fatu? Background and Early Life
Before reaching WWE, Jacob Fatu built his reputation as one of the most dominant performers on the independent wrestling scene, particularly during his run as a world champion in MLW.
Here's Jacob Fatu discussing his background during his MLW run:
His path, however, was not straightforward. At 18, he was arrested in California on robbery charges and spent time in jail-a period he has described as a turning point. Seeing his cousins, Jimmy Uso and Jey Uso, succeed in WWE inspired him to pursue wrestling and change direction.
That experience still shapes Fatu's on-screen persona today. As he steps into the ring with Roman Reigns, his story isn't just about family ties-it's about building his own legacy within the same lineage.
How to Watch WWE Backlash
WWE Backlash: Tampa will stream on ESPN Unlimited in the United States and on Netflix internationally. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. CT / 3:00 p.m. PT.
Related: When Did Roman Reigns Eat Dog Food? CM Punk Reference Explained
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This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 9:42 AM.