Do It for The Rock and Get Yourself a Rikishi Tattoo

Some people have negative perceptions of both the art of tattooing and wrestling, but these tattoos are too cool!

Born into a professional wrestling dynasty, the Anoaʻi family, Solofa Fatu Jr. made his wrestling debut at age 20 in 1985. He worked for promotions in Canada, Japan, Puerto Rico, and the United States for several years before signing to the then-WWF in 1992 where he had three different gimmicks across six years.

Briefly returning to the independent circuit, Fatu Jr. once again was signed to the WWF in late 1999. His new name, Rikishi, and his look were inspired by Japanese language and culture, and also his cousin, Yokozuna, with both their names relating to the sport of sumo wrestling. For any fans of wrestling around the turn of the millennium, you likely recognise him from his work as Rikishi.

Having wrestled mainly on the independent scene (and at times in Japan) from 2004 until 2019, Fatu Jr. has made several WWE appearances since – most notably his 2015 induction into the WWE Hall of Fame.

With uncles, brothers, cousins, and even his sons contributing to the legacy of the Anoaʻi family in professional wrestling, Fatu Jr./Rikishi has cemented his place in history, and also on the bodies of some die-hard fans.

Today, October 11, just happens to be his 59th birthday, so I thought I’d celebrate by sharing a couple of Rikishi fan tattoos.

As of yet, no one seems to have a Stinkface themed piece, or another of Fatu’s wrestling gimmicks during his decades-long career. The Anoaʻi family have a long lineage in professional wrestling, Rikishi could be one of a number of family members you choose for a sleeve or full back piece.

Booty tattoos are a thing, usually in the shape of a love heart – Rikishi’s booty would be perfect for one of those. If you need some inspo or tattooer recommendations, click here for booty tattoos by Carly Baggins, or here for more artists who know their way around a themed booty tattoo.

Don’t even think of copying these tattoos, or prepare yourself for a karmic Stinkface for breaking a cardinal rule of tattooing. Do it for The Rock and get your very own Rikishi tattoo.

While the people above have a permanent reminder of Rikishi’s wrestling career, yours may be of subjecting Vince McMahon to a Stinkface; being chokeslammed by The Undertaker from the top of Hell in a Cell; or dancing with Too Cool. My core memory, which still makes me laugh to this day (my sense of humour is stuck at age 12) happens to be The Rock’s impression of him, and several other wrestlers back in the year 2000. Check it out below.

Now I need to go and attempt to fix my YouTube algorithm before all I get suggested is videos of Rikishi giving Stinkfaces to his opponents.