Lance Anoa’i’s WWE Future in Question Amid Backstage Concerns

Lance Anoa’i may come from wrestling royalty, but according to Dave Meltzer, not everyone in WWE is convinced he’ll make it.

Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Meltzer addressed the backstage concerns surrounding Anoa’i and fellow WWE signee Hikuleo.

“Lance Anoa’i is there. There has been criticism of Lance Anoa’i that he may not make it. I have heard nothing negative about Hikuleo. You would think that him being there for all this time and not being used is like they must be disappointed but I have not heard that at all.”

Anoa’i signed with WWE in the summer of 2024 but suffered an injury soon after, delaying his in-ring debut until 2025. The son of Samu and member of the legendary Anoa’i family, he previously competed in Major League Wrestling (MLW) from 2018 to 2023 before leaving for new opportunities. His experience also includes a strong run in Pro Wrestling NOAH’s 2023 N1-Victory Tournament, where he scored wins over Go Shiozaki, El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr., and Yuma Anzai.

Meanwhile, Hikuleo, the son of Haku, also signed with WWE in 2024, but unlike Anoa’i, there have been no negative reports about his potential. Despite not yet making his debut, Meltzer noted there’s no indication WWE is unhappy with him.

With Anoa’i still waiting for his first match in WWE, the question remains—will he prove the doubters wrong, or is he already on borrowed time? Do you think Lance Anoa’i has what it takes to thrive in WWE? Sound off in the comments!