What is a Ula Fala? What is its significance?

Ula Fala is a red necklace used by Samoan wrestlers in WWE to mark their dominion. In modern-day WWE, only The Tribal Chief is adorned with this prestigious red necklace. Throughout its history in the promotion, the garland has been worn by the members of the Anoa’i family.

It is one of the most well-known and influential families in professional wrestling, started by Amituanaʻi Anoaʻi and Peter Maivia, who were blood brothers. A number of iconic wrestlers have since emerged from the family including The Wild Samoans, Rikishi, Tonga Kid, Umaga, Jacob Fatu, Tamina, Nia Jax, The Usos, Solo Sikoa, Roman Reigns, and The Rock. Haku and his sons Tonga Loa, Tama Tonga, and Hikuleo are also considered to be members of the family as The Rock considers Haku as his uncle. Multiple members of the Anoa’i family are on the WWE roster, and since 2020, the chief of these wrestlers has been wearing the Ula Fala.

What is Ula Fala?

The Ula Fala, or Lei of the Chiefs, is a traditional Samoan necklace crafted from pandanus seeds, dyed a vibrant red. In Samoan culture, 'ula, or necklaces, are crafted from a diverse range of natural materials like leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, shells, and even whales' teeth. These adornments are commonly worn during festive occasions and exchanged as gifts for arriving or departing guests. They not only enhance the appearance but also serve as decorative elements in Samoan homes, adorning pictures, statues, and walls.

Among the various types of 'ula, the Ula Fala holds a particularly significant place. Primarily worn by Samoan chiefs, the Ula Fala serves as a visual marker of social status. In ceremonial and social gatherings, it distinguishes special guests and adds a touch of elegance. The Ula Fala is made from segments of the pandanus fruit, varying in color from yellow to orange and red when ripe. The color red, associated with high rank, is often chosen for the Ula Fala.

What is the significance of Ula Fala in WWE?

In WWE, Ula Fala is worn by the most respected Samoan wrestler. In 2020, this prestigious symbol was bestowed upon Roman Reigns, the Tribal Chief, to signify his dominance within the Anoa'i family and his role as the undisputed leader. Reigns received the Ula Fala from his father, Sika, and his uncle, Afa, the legendary Wild Samoans, following his victory over his cousin, Jey Uso, at Hell in a Cell.

History of Ula Fala in WWE

Before Roman Reigns

Roman Reigns was not the first wrestler to wear the red necklace in WWE. The Ula Fala was already worn by some great Samoan names. The first wrestler to wear the Ula Fala was Peter Maivia, also known as the High Chief. He is the grandfather of The Rock and one of the two patriarchs of the Anoa’i wrestling family. In WWE, the Ula Fala was worn by wrestlers like Yokozuna, The Rock, and Rikishi on important occasions while Umaga used to wear the necklace on a more regular basis.

The Tribal Chief Roman Reigns (2020 - 2024)

In 2020, Jey Uso feuded with his cousin Roman Reigns not only for the latter’ Universal Championship but also for his claim at the Head of the Table. Following a victory at Clash at the Castle, Reigns announced himself to be The Tribal Chief and defeated Uso once again at Hell in a Cell. Following the match, The Wild Samoans awarded him the Ula Fala, thus crowning him as the Tribal Chief. Over the next years, other members of the Samoan dynasty acknowledged Reigns’ position as the Head, including The Rock. Reigns’ special counsel Paul Heyman carried the Ula Fala with him.

Solo Sikoa takes the Ula Fala (2024 - Present)

At WrestleMania XL, Roman Reigns lost the Universal Championship to Cody Rhodes and went on an indefinite hiatus. In the meantime, Solo Sikoa ousted Jimmy Uso and Paul Heyman from The Bloodline and created his own New Bloodline with Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, and Tonga Loa. He also took the Ula Fala and crowned himself as the new Tribal Chief.