Taylor Wily Obituary: Beloved Actor and Former Sumo Wrestler Passes Away at 56 – Death
Taylor Wily, the renowned actor and former sumo wrestler, has passed away at the age of 56, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a larger-than-life charisma that won the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
Born Teila Tuli on June 14, 1968, in Laie, Hawaii, Wily was a multidimensional American actor, former sumo wrestler, and mixed martial fighter with American Samoan heritage. He is best known for his recurring role as Kamekona Tupuola on the iconic television series Hawaii Five-0 and his appearance in Magnum, P.I.
Wily’s sumo career began in March 1987, when he was recruited by Takamiyama Daigorō and joined the Azumazeki stable. He had a remarkable start, being unbeaten in his first 14 official matches and winning two consecutive yūshō (tournament championships). At approximately 440 pounds (200 kg), he was one of the heaviest sumo wrestlers.
After retiring from sumo in July 1989 due to knee difficulties, Wily entered New Japan Pro Wrestling in 1990 and trained under Tatsumi Fujinami’s stable, Dragon Bombers, until it was disbanded in 1992. He then switched to mixed martial arts and competed in the first UFC event in November 1993, fighting as Teila Tuli.
Wily’s acting career was marked by memorable performances, including a cheerful hotel worker in the comedy picture Forgetting Sarah Marshall and recurring roles on Hawaii Five-0 and The Amazing Race. He also appeared briefly in the 1982 episode “The Eighth Part of the Village” of Magnum, P.I. and as a sumo wrestler in “Battle of the Titans” on One West Waikiki.
Taylor Wily’s transition from sumo wrestling to mixed martial arts and eventually to acting demonstrates his versatility and long-standing presence in the entertainment industry. His larger-than-life charisma and loving nature won him both fans and coworkers alike, and he will be deeply missed.
The news of Taylor Wily’s passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with tributes pouring in from fans, colleagues, and friends. His legacy will live on through his memorable performances, and his impact on the entertainment industry will never be forgotten.
In conclusion, Taylor Wily’s passing is a tremendous loss, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his contributions to the entertainment industry will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Taylor Wily. Your legacy will live on.
Taylor Wily’s family, friends, and colleagues will deeply miss him, but his impact on the entertainment industry will endure. His commitment to his craft, his larger-than-life charisma, and his loving nature will continue to inspire and motivate those who knew him. Rest in peace, Taylor Wily. Your legacy will live on.
The entertainment industry has lost a true legend, and the world has lost a shining star. Taylor Wily’s passing is a tremendous loss, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his contributions to the entertainment industry will never be forgotten.
Taylor Wily’s obituary will be released by the family at a later date, and funeral services will be held privately. The family requests privacy during this difficult time and appreciates the outpouring of love and support from fans and colleagues alike.
