WWE NXT signee Lance Anoa’i, a third-generation talent from the legendary Anoa’i wrestling family, is currently sidelined due to a second significant injury that has further delayed his highly anticipated WWE debut. Despite signing with WWE last summer, Anoa’i has yet to step inside the NXT ring, with back-to-back injuries seriously impacting his in-ring progression and WWE’s plans for the rising star.

According to wrestling journalist Sean Ross Sapp during a recent Fightful Weekly Q&A podcast, Anoa’i sustained an initial injury earlier this year that kept him out of action for several months. Unfortunately, shortly afterward, he suffered another injury this summer, compounding his recovery and knocking him out of most of 2025’s training and show schedule[1][3]. These setbacks have left WWE officials uncertain about when the former MLW standout will be ready to compete, and no official return timeline has been announced.

A WWE insider who spoke to Wrestling News confirmed that “Lance’s injuries have been a big frustration backstage, especially given his pedigree and potential. Everyone expected him to be a major part of NXT’s future, but these health challenges have slowed everything down.” The source also hinted that WWE remains committed to Anoa’i’s long-term development but is focused on ensuring a full recovery before his eventual debut.

Lance Anoa’i, son of Samu (one-half of The Headshrinkers tag team) and cousin to current WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, has had to wait longer than expected to make his mark in WWE despite his strong wrestling lineage. Initially announced as a promising talent set to be groomed under Shawn Michaels’ leadership in NXT, the repeated injuries have forced WWE to recalibrate their timeline for his introductory push[2].

The first injury reportedly kept Anoa’i out of action for a large part of early 2025, pushing his potential NXT debut into the latter half of the year. However, the subsequent injury this summer has disrupted even those plans, effectively pausing his in-ring career indefinitely until he is fully healthy[1][3][4]. Details on the nature of the injuries have not been disclosed publicly, but insiders note the setbacks are severe enough to warrant caution.

This hold-up is particularly unfortunate because Anoa’i was expected to bring fresh energy and narrative linkage to WWE’s current storylines, especially given his kinship with the Bloodline faction led by Roman Reigns. Fans and WWE officials alike anticipated that Anoa’i would provide new angles as he forged his own identity while honoring the iconic Anoa’i legacy[2].

Backstage sources emphasize that WWE remains “patient and supportive” of Lance’s recovery, underscoring how important his eventual presence could be for NXT and the wider WWE brand. There is a strong belief that once fully healed, Anoa’i’s blend of technical ability, agility, and family legacy will make him a standout performer.

For now, however, the former MLW star remains on an extended sidelines, with WWE staff closely monitoring his rehabilitation process. Updates will be forthcoming as more information becomes available, but fans due for his WWE in-ring debut may need to temper expectations for the near future[1][3][5].

The news of Lance Anoa’i’s setbacks comes amid a slew of injury woes plaguing WWE’s roster, which has affected multiple superstars’ participation across Raw, SmackDown, and NXT programming. Injuries not only alter booking plans but also impact fan anticipation for new talent breakthroughs, placing extra pressure on WWE creative teams.

Lance Anoa’i’s story is a reminder of the physical toll professional wrestling exacts, even on those born into the business. His perseverance in the face of repeated adversity will likely endear him further to the WWE Universe in time, once he’s able to compete safely.

In summary:

• Lance Anoa’i, WWE NXT developmental talent, has suffered two major injuries since signing last summer, delaying his debut into 2025 and beyond[1][3].

• The severity and timing of these injuries remain undisclosed, but they have required multiple setbacks and prolonged recovery periods[1][4].

• WWE insiders confirm backstage frustration but underline the company’s ongoing commitment to Anoa’i’s progression once he recovers fully[3].

• His connection to WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and the Bloodline adds intrigue to his eventual return and storyline potential[2].

• No official timeline has been provided for when Lance Anoa’i will resume training or make his in-ring WWE debut[1][3].

WWE fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for any further news, hoping that the once-rising star can overcome these hurdles and showcase his talent on WWE’s main stage soon. Until then, Lance Anoa’i’s journey remains one of resilience and cautious optimism.

Reported by [Your Name], Wrestling Correspondent
Sources: WWE.com, Fightful Weekly Q&A Podcast, PWMania, Wrestling Inc., Sportskeeda