In October 2018, Roman Reigns stunned WWE Universe by halting his title run and acknowledging his leukemia—this was an emotional moment marked by tears and a heartfelt plea: “My real name is Joe… I’ve been living with leukemia for 11 years. Unfortunately, it’s back” . He spoke from the heart on Raw, relinquished the Universal Championship, and asked fans for prayers—not pity. The announcement wasn’t a retirement, but a vow to “whoop leukemia’s ass” and return stronger .
His departure left a dramatic void. Commentary teams choked up, crowds chanted “Cancer sucks,” and fellow stars like Kevin Owens, Natalya, and Ric Flair voiced support . Months of intense treatment followed, and by February 2019, Roman confirmed his remission, returning to the ring with renewed purpose .
Since then, he’s periodically reminded fans that treatment continues: “I take an oral chemotherapy. I don’t have to go in for radiation,” sharing a realistic perspective on living with chronic leukemia . WWE has accommodated his schedule to align with health needs .
Separately, Sika Anoa’i, Roman’s father, passed away in June 2024. He was a legendary figure—one half of The Wild Samoans (tags: WWF Tag Team Champions, Hall of Fame inductees in 2007)—but his death wasn’t from cancer . There’s no verified footage or source of Roman weeping over it in public.
🔍 In Closing
The emotional moment was real, but it was about Roman’s own battle with leukemia, not the death of another WWE star.
Misinformation spreads quickly online, especially with sensational titles and recycled YouTube clips lacking context.
Roman’s strength through personal struggle, openness about ongoing treatment, and family legacy (including the loss of his father) are true and verified parts of his journey.
Bottom line: Roman Reigns’ tears were heartfelt and genuine in 2018, but they were about his own illness, not the passing of another WWE superstar from cancer. Keep an eye on credible news outlets—People, ESPN, WWE—for reliable context, and you’ll avoid falling into the trap of emotional clickbait.
