Who Was Taylor Wily?
Taylor Wily, born Teila Tuli on June 14, 1968, was a multi-talented individual known for his work as an actor, sumo wrestler, and mixed martial artist. Originating from Laie, Hawaii, and of American Samoan descent, Wily’s diverse career began in the world of sumo wrestling. He was recruited into sumo by former sekiwake Takamiyama Daigorō, another Hawaiian, and joined the Azumazeki stable, which Takamiyama had established. Competing under the sumo name Takamishū, Wily quickly made a mark in the sport. He remained unbeaten in his first 14 official bouts, winning two consecutive tournament championships. At his peak, he weighed approximately 440 pounds (200 kilograms), making him one of sumo’s heaviest wrestlers.
In March 1988, Wily was promoted to the third-highest makushita class and became the first foreign-born wrestler to win a championship in that division. During the same period, future yokozuna Akebono Tarō joined the Azumazeki stable, with Wily serving as his mentor, helping him adapt to life in Japan. Unfortunately, knee problems forced Wily to retire from sumo in July 1989.
Transition to Acting
Wily transitioned from sumo wrestling to acting, where he found considerable success. He became a beloved figure on television, most notably for his role as Kamekona Tupuola on the CBS series “Hawaii Five-0.” Wily appeared in all ten seasons of the show, which began in 2010. His character, Kamekona, became a fan favorite, known for his humor and warmth. In addition to “Hawaii Five-0,” Wily had a notable role in the comedy film “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” where he played a hotel employee who befriended Jason Segel’s character.
Wily also made an appearance on the 20th season of “The Amazing Race,” where he handed out clues to the competing participants. Furthermore, he had a cameo in the 1982 episode of “Magnum, P.I.” titled “The Eighth Part of the Village,” set near a pool hall. He portrayed a sumo wrestler in the episode “Battle of the Titans” of the TV drama “One West Waikiki,” starring Cheryl Ladd.
Mixed Martial Arts Career
In addition to his accomplishments in sumo and acting, Wily also ventured into mixed martial arts. In September 1990, he began training with Tatsumi Fujinami’s stable, Dragon Bombers, alongside former sumo wrestler Nankairyū Tarō. Although the stable disbanded in 1992, Wily continued his training, which transitioned into mixed martial arts. This preparation led him to compete in the inaugural Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC 1) in November 1993.
Competing under his birth name, Teila Tuli, Wily faced savate expert Gerard Gordeau in the first UFC 1 bout. The fight was brief but memorable; Wily charged forward but lost his balance and was met with a hard kick to the head from Gordeau, which knocked out a couple of his teeth. Gordeau’s TKO victory marked the end of Wily’s MMA career, but the fight remains one of the top five David and Goliath matchups in MMA history.
Legacy and Tributes
Taylor Wily’s diverse career and vibrant personality left an indelible mark on both the entertainment and sports industries. His sudden passing has left fans, colleagues, and loved ones mourning the loss of a remarkable individual. His work on “Hawaii Five-0” and his unique journey from sumo wrestling to acting and mixed martial arts have inspired many. Tributes have poured in from all corners, celebrating his life and contributions.
As the community reflects on his legacy, there is a shared sense of loss and gratitude for the joy and entertainment he brought into the lives of many. His family is expected to release an obituary detailing his life and achievements, and it is anticipated that there will be further tributes and memorials to honor his memory.
Taylor Wily, known for his multifaceted career as an actor, sumo wrestler, and mixed martial artist, has passed away, leaving a significant void in the hearts of those who admired and loved him. His roles in “Hawaii Five-0” and “Magnum P.I.,” as well as his participation in UFC 1, showcased his diverse talents and endeared him to a wide audience. As his family, friends, and fans come to terms with his loss, they will continue to celebrate his legacy and the joy he brought to many through his work and life.
