Peter Fanene Maivia
Biography
Peter Maivia (1937-1982) was an influential Samoan professional wrestler, known for his charisma and in-ring skill. He debuted in professional wrestling in the 1960s and quickly became known for his imposing presence and his "Samoan King" persona, which capitalized on his Samoan cultural heritage. He was one of the first international stars to stand out outside of Samoa, particularly in the WWWF (now WWE), where he made a significant impact. Throughout his career, Maivia won several championships and became a key figure in professional wrestling in the United States and international territories. He was also one of the first members of the Anoa'i wrestling dynasty, one of the most influential families in professional wrestling, which includes his grandson, the renowned wrestler The Rock (Dwayne Johnson). Maivia was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996, recognizing his substantial contribution to the sport. His legacy extends not only to his personal success but also to the impact he had on representing Samoan culture in professional wrestling. He passed away in 1982 at the age of 45 due to stomach cancer, but his influence endures through his family and the Anoa'i dynasty, which continues to dominate professional wrestling today. His legacy is remembered both for his in-ring skill and as a pioneer in the industry.
Known For & Full Filmography8 Titles
Drama Series - 1973, 16 episodes • as High Chief Peter Maivia
Discover rarely-seen matches from the 1970s, '80s, and '90s featuring countless WWE Hall of Famers such as Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair.
Drama Series - 1973, 16 episodes • as Peter Maivia
Discover rarely-seen matches from the 1970s, '80s, and '90s featuring countless WWE Hall of Famers such as Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair.
Drama Series - 1975, 16 episodes • as High Chief Peter Maivia
The greatest WWE Superstars of the 1975s & 1982s, including Andre the Giant, Bob Backlund, and Bruno Sammartino compete in exciting matches.
Movie - 1967, 2h 15m • as Dodge driver
A mysterious spacecraft captures Russian and American space capsules and brings the two superpowers to the brink of war. James Bond investigates the case in Japan and comes face to face with his archenemy Blofeld.
Drama Series - 1959, 16 episodes • Main Cast Role
Whicker's World is an award-winning British television documentary series that ran from 1958 to 1994, presented by journalist and broadcaster Alan Whicker. Originally a segment on the BBC's Tonight programme in 1958, Whicker's World became a fully-fledged television series in its own right in the 1960s. The series was first shown by the BBC until 1968, and then by ITV from 1969 to 1983, when it was produced by Yorkshire Television, in which Whicker himself was a shareholder. The series returned to the BBC in 1984, and to ITV again in 1992.
Movie - 2012, 2h 15m • as Self
This documentary traces John Cena and The Rock's individual paths to success in WWE and take an in-depth look at the lives of these polarizing figures.
Movie - 1985, 2h 15m • as Peter Maivia
Jesse "The Body" Ventura takes the WWE Universe on a trip down memory lane with some of the wildest matches in history; this presentation features everything from battle royals and lumberjack matches to an unforgettable bout inside a steel cage.
Movie - 2008, 2h 15m • as Himself
The class of 2008 takes their rightful place in the Hall of Fame, during Wrestlemania 24 weekend. Inductees include The Brisco Brothers, Gordon Solie, Mae Young, Eddie Graham, Peter Maivia, and Ric Flair.