Roman Reigns and the Art of Samoan Tattooing: Unveiling the Man Behind the Ink
One of the striking features of Roman Reigns is not just his powerful moves in the wrestling ring but also the intricate tribal tattoos that adorn his body. Fans have long admired and wondered about the stories these designs tell. As it turns out, much like his wrestling moves, his tattoos, too, are deeply rooted in his Samoan heritage.
Reigns, along with The Usos, Solo Sikoa, and several other Samoan wrestlers, showcase tattoos that hold significant cultural and personal meanings. More than just designs inked on their bodies, these tattoos reflect the rich history and traditions of the Samoan culture.
The Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, Roman Reigns, stated that his right arm tattoo alone took a staggering 17 hours to finish. You can find symbols representing the mats his ancestors used for worship and spearheads. It depicts the idea of armour, protection, and strength.
Introducing the Master Craftsman: Michael Fatutoa, aka ‘Samoan Mike’
But who is the man trusted by Reigns and many others to etch these important symbols onto their bodies? That honour goes to Michael Fatutoa, widely recognized as ‘Samoan Mike’ in the tattoo world. With a profound understanding of tribal designs, Samoan Mike specializes in Polynesian tattoos. His impeccable craftsmanship is not just about tattooing; it’s about weaving a story, a heritage, and a culture into a living canvas.
Both Roman Reigns and Jey Uso have vocally praised Samoan Mike for his work. They acknowledge not just his skill but also the depth of understanding and respect he has for the Samoan culture. The level of trust these wrestlers place in him speaks volumes about his reputation and skill in the industry.
The Legacy of Tribal Tattoos: Tracing Back to High Chief Peter Maivia
The tradition of Samoan tattoos is not a recent phenomenon. It can be traced back to High Chief Peter Maivia. The High Chief sported a ‘Pe’a’ – a remarkable tattoo extending from the waist to the knees. In the Samoan culture, the Pe’a is not just a design. It is a symbol of leadership, a mark of distinction, showcasing one’s role as a leader in the community.
The legacy left behind by High Chief Peter Maivia has not just been carried forward but proudly flaunted by the current generation of wrestlers. Big names like The Rock and The Usos, among others, bear tribal tattoos on their chest, arms, and legs, representing their pride in their Samoan roots.
Wrestling might be about strength, tactics, and entertainment. But for wrestlers like Roman Reigns and The Usos, it’s also about showcasing their identity. Every time they step into the ring, they bring along not just their training; but also their ancestry, symbolized by the tattoos that cover their bodies.
It’s artists like Samoan Mike who ensure that traditions are kept alive, stories are told, and heritage is celebrated. In a way, through his art, he keeps the spirit of the Samoan culture alive, one tattoo at a time.
