History of Taylor Wily in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 23, 2024

Taylor Wily was an American actor and former sumo wrestler and mixed martial artist of American Samoan descent. He was best known for his role as Kamekona Tupuola in the television series "Hawaii Five-0" and its reimagining of the "Magnum P.I." character.

June 14, 1968: Birth of Taylor Wily

Taylor Wily was born Teila Tuli on June 14, 1968, in Laie, Hawaii.

1982: Early Acting Appearance

Taylor Wily appeared as an extra in an episode of "Magnum, P.I." in 1982, showcasing an early interest in acting.

March 1987: Sumo Wrestling Begins

In March 1987, Taylor Wily was recruited to join the Azumazeki stable as a sumo wrestler under the shikona Takamishū.

March 1988: Sumo Wrestling Achievements

By March 1988, Takamishū reached impressive milestones in sumo wrestling, becoming the first foreign-born wrestler to win the championship in the third highest makushita division.

March 1989: Mentorship and Peak Sumo Rank

In March 1989, Takamishū achieved the rank of makushita 2, the highest in his career. He also mentored future yokozuna Akebono Tarō, providing guidance on adapting to life in Japan.

July 1989: Retirement from Sumo Wrestling

Takamishū retired from sumo wrestling in July 1989 due to persistent knee problems, marking the end of his sumo career.

September 1990: Transition to Pro Wrestling

Taylor Wily joined New Japan Pro Wrestling in September 1990 as a trainee in Tatsumi Fujinami's stable, Dragon Bombers, alongside fellow former sumo wrestler Nankairyū Tarō.

1992: Departure from New Japan Pro Wrestling

Taylor Wily left New Japan Pro Wrestling in 1992 after the dissolution of the Dragon Bombers stable, leading him towards a new path in combat sports.

November 1993: UFC 1 Debut and Only MMA Fight

In November 1993, Taylor Wily, as Teila Tuli, fought in his only MMA bout at UFC 1 against Gerard Gordeau. He lost by TKO, marking the beginning and end of his MMA career.