Who is Hikuleo? Hikuleo, born Tautuiaki Taula Koloamatangi on February 7, 1991, in Kissimmee, Florida, is an American professional wrestler of Tongan descent who has made significant waves in the wrestling world. Currently signed to World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) under the ring name Tala Tonga, he performs on the SmackDown brand as a member of The Bloodline faction.
Before his WWE tenure, Hikuleo established a formidable presence in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), where he competed from 2016 to 2024, earning accolades as a former IWGP Tag Team Champion, NJPW Strong Openweight Champion, and two-time NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Champion. Standing at an imposing 6’8”, Hikuleo’s athleticism, family legacy, and evolving in-ring presence have positioned him as a notable figure in professional wrestling.
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Early Life and Background
Hikuleo was raised in Kissimmee, Florida, by his adoptive parents, Dorothy Koloamatangi and Tonga Fifita, the latter known in wrestling circles as Haku, a legendary figure renowned for his toughness. Growing up, Hikuleo was inspired by his father’s television appearances, igniting a passion for wrestling from a young age. Alongside his elder brother Alipate (Tama Tonga), he was immersed in a family deeply rooted in the sport, with relatives like Tonga Loa and Bad Luck Fale also carving out successful wrestling careers. Hikuleo attended Osceola High School before embarking on his wrestling journey, training initially at the Team 3D Academy under Bully Ray and Devon, which laid the foundation for his professional career.
Journey in New Japan Pro-Wrestling
Hikuleo’s wrestling career began in earnest in 2016 when he moved to Japan to train at the NJPW dojo. He debuted on November 12, 2016, at NJPW’s On the Mat pay-per-view under the name Leo Tonga, competing in a dark match. As a Young Lion in 2017, he honed his skills before joining the NJPW roster as a member of the Bullet Club, a prominent heel faction, alongside his brothers Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa, and cousin Bad Luck Fale. In January 2018, he appeared at Wrestle Kingdom 12 in the New Japan Rumble and adopted the ring name Hikuleo, inspired by a Tongan deity, at The New Beginning in Sapporo.
Despite an ACL injury in March 2018 that sidelined him for six months, Hikuleo returned in 2019, competing in the New Japan Cup and debuting in Revolution Pro Wrestling in Europe. His tenure in NJPW saw significant growth, particularly after a year-long hiatus from 2019 to 2020. Upon his return on NJPW Strong, he defeated Brody King and competed in the New Japan Cup USA. His rivalry with Bullet Club leader Jay White intensified in 2021 after White expelled Hikuleo’s brothers from the faction, leading to a notable match at Mutiny in April 2022. Hikuleo later turned face, joining the Guerrillas of Destiny (GoD) with his brothers and Jado.
In 2023, Hikuleo’s career peaked as he and El Phantasmo won the IWGP Tag Team Championships and the NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Championships at Wrestle Kingdom 18. Their reign included a successful run in the World Tag League, though they lost the titles in early 2024. Hikuleo’s final NJPW match was at Dominion 6.9 in Osaka, where he and Phantasmo dropped the Strong Openweight titles to TMDK.
Transition to WWE and The Bloodline
In July 2024, Hikuleo signed with WWE, a move that sparked speculation about his role in The Bloodline, a dominant faction led by Solo Sikoa and featuring his brothers Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa. After months of training at the WWE Performance Center, Hikuleo debuted at Night of Champions 2025 under the ring name Tala Tonga. During the event, he made a significant impact by chokeslamming Jacob Fatu onto the announce desk, aiding Sikoa in capturing the WWE United States Championship. This debut cemented his alignment with The New Bloodline, alongside Sikoa, his brothers, and JC Mateo (formerly Jeff Cobb).
Hikuleo’s WWE ring name, Tala Tonga, is derived from his middle name, Taula, and reflects his Tongan heritage. His towering presence and athleticism make him a valuable addition to The Bloodline, with fans anticipating his role in the ongoing saga against Roman Reigns and other family members. While his WWE tenure is still in its early stages, his debut suggests a prominent future in the company.
In-Ring Style and Potential
Hikuleo’s in-ring style combines the power of a big man with surprising agility for his size. His signature moves, like a devastating powerslam and a big boot, draw comparisons to wrestling giants like The Undertaker. While his NJPW run showcased steady improvement, fans and critics note that his promo skills and charisma need further development to match his physical presence. His time at the WWE Performance Center has likely focused on adapting to the American wrestling style, which emphasizes storytelling and character work.
Legacy and Future
As the son of Haku and brother to Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa, Hikuleo carries a storied family legacy. His transition from NJPW to WWE marks a new chapter, with potential to become a cornerstone of The Bloodline storyline. At 34, Hikuleo has years ahead to refine his craft and establish himself as a main-event talent. Whether he remains a heel enforcer or evolves into a fan-favorite, his journey is one to watch.
FAQs
- Who is Hikuleo’s father?
Hikuleo’s father is Tonga Fifita, known as Haku, a legendary professional wrestler recognized for his toughness and tenure in WWE and other promotions. - What is Hikuleo’s new WWE ring name?
Hikuleo performs in WWE under the ring name Tala Tonga, a name revealed during his debut at Night of Champions 2025. - What titles did Hikuleo win in NJPW?
Hikuleo won the IWGP Tag Team Championship once, the NJPW Strong Openweight Championship once, and the NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Championship twice with El Phantasmo. - How is Hikuleo related to The Bloodline?
Hikuleo is the brother of Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa, both members of The Bloodline in WWE. Their cousin, Bad Luck Fale, is also a wrestler but not currently in WWE. - When did Hikuleo debut in WWE?
Hikuleo debuted on June 28, 2025, at Night of Champions, assisting Solo Sikoa in winning the WWE United States Championship.