Snuka enjoyed two spells in WWE, first from 1982-85 and then from 1989-92. During his first spell with the company he was a heel under the guidance of Captain Lou Albano, losing several WWF Championship matches against Bob Backlund. Even though he was being portrayed as a buy-guy, Snuka would be cheered by fans that were amazed by his high-flying style. His most memorable feud came against Don Muraco. On October 17, 1983, the pair would face off in a steel cage match at Madison Square Garden where Snuka would hit the Superfly Splash off the top of the cage. He really was an innovator. Another classic moment came in his last feud before his first departure. 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper hosted an episode of 'Piper's Pit' where he brought bananas, pineapples, and coconuts to the interview to make Snuka "feel more at home." Some think Piper went too far when he said he did not get a tree for Snuka to "climb and down like a monkey." Piper then proceeded to smash a coconut on his head when he turned his back momentarily. His return to the company in 1989 was largely used to put over up and coming talents like Curt Henning, Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker. Snuka lost to Taker at WrestleMania VII, making him the deadman's first victim at the Showcase of the Immortals. Snuka would make appearances for ECW, WCW and TNA before retiring from the ring. He made a comeback to in-ring action at WrestleMania XXV in 2009, teaming with Piper and Ricky Steamboat to face Chris Jericho. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996.
