Taylor Wily, known in the mixed martial arts circuit as Teila Tuli, died at 56 years oldas confirmed by the KITV 4 Island News program from Hawaii, his place of origin. Although the cause of his death has not yet been revealedthe news generated a great impact for his fans and a flood of tributes from friends and family on social networks.
Peter Lenkov, executive producer of the series Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum, PI, where Wily had prominent roles after leaving the sport, expressed his pain through Instagram: “I am devastated. With a broken heart. I’ll post some detailed sentiments in a few days. It’s too difficult right now.”
Lenkov recalled his first meeting with Wily with great affection: “You came in with a towel on your head wiping your sweat and you captivated me. I fell in love with your charisma and energy, so much so that you became a regular on the show and in my life. You were family. And I will miss you every day, brother.”
Alyssa, Wily’s sister, also shared an emotional tribute on Facebook, where she posted a family video in honor of the Hawaiian star: “We mourn and celebrate our favorite brother and uncle the way he would want us to. Family, Food, Music and Good Vibes. Aurrrrrighhhhh,” she concluded.
The UFC company, meanwhile, spoke out through an official statement: “No one will ever forget seeing Teila Tuli fight Gerard Gordeau in the first UFC event in 1993, and today we remember the life of Tuli, who died at the age 56 years. The UFC family sends its most sincere condolences to the friends and family of Teila Tuli.”
“Thank you for the laughs”, “Rest in peace” and “Speechless. “He was so loved all over the world,” were some comments from his fans after hearing the news.
