Prince Iaukea

The Prince of Wrestling

On a warm summer day in 1964, in the city of Honolulu, Hawaii, a new life was born. Little did anyone know that this tiny bundle of joy would one day become a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling.

Prince Iaukea, as he would come to be known, was not your typical wrestler. Hailing from a family of athletes, Michael Laauli Hayner III (his given name) grew up surrounded by the sounds and smells of competition. He dabbled in Judo, an activity that would serve him well later in his career.

As he entered his teenage years, Iaukea's fascination with wrestling began to take shape. With a natural aptitude for technique, he honed his skills on the mat, learning the art of submission holds and grappling. His friends and family would often gather around, mesmerized by his impressive moves and agility.

In 1996, Iaukea made his professional debut in New Japan Pro Wrestling, his jumping DDT becoming an instant fan favorite. As he traversed the world of wrestling, he earned the respect and admiration of his peers, adopting the ring name TAFKA Prince Iaueka (a nod to his Samoan heritage).

Iaukea's career was marked by a series of championships, including the WCW World Cruiserweight Championship, WCW World Television Championship, PWF Junior Heavyweight Championship, and PWE Heavyweight Championship. His technical prowess earned him recognition as one of the greatest wrestlers in the world.

But Prince Iaueka's story is more than just a collection of accolades and achievements. It is a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and passion. As he stepped into the ring, his opponents knew they were in for a battle – and they often left with their heads spinning from the sheer force of his jumping DDT.

In a career spanning over two decades, Prince Iaueka remained true to himself, his heritage, and his craft. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of wrestlers and fans alike. And as we look back on his remarkable journey, one thing is clear: he was indeed a prince among men – in the ring and out.