Tua Tagovailoa has a new look this summer.
At Wednesday’s training camp, the Miami Dolphins quarterback showed off a full-sleeve tattoo on his right arm. Per USA Today’s Safid Deen, Tagovailoa said it took three sessions to complete the full artwork when explaining its cultural significance.
“It’s a piece that represents my first child,” Tagovailoa said. “There’s a lot of things that go on behind it. A lot of cultural significance. A lot of things that has to do with protection, guidance, certain things like that that we believe in Samoan culture.”
Many fans thought of WWE champion Roman Reigns (who also has Samoan roots) and The Bloodline when reacting to Tagovailoa’s new tattoo.
“I love the meaning & symbolism of Samoan tribal tattoos,” a fan wrote. “Plus they’re dope!”
I love the meaning & symbolism of samoan tribal tattoos plus they’re dope! https://t.co/rCctwT3iYH
— Jessie ✰ Lynn (@jlcovert44) July 26, 2023
“Tua entering his Tribal Chief era,” another fan said. “Dolphins running away with the East.”
Tua entering his Tribal Chief era. Dolphins running away with the East https://t.co/80O0M0Ta6T
— D (@GunslingerViews) July 26, 2023
“Acknowledge my QB1,” a fan said.
Acknowledge my QB1 ☝️ https://t.co/vTC36ohfMW
— Vin Bonaccorso (@VinBonaccorso) July 26, 2023
“Full sleeve Tua going to go crazy,” another fan predicted.
Full sleeve Tua going to go crazy https://t.co/qGJXolMirj
— Evan VanWormer (@EvanVanWormer1) July 26, 2023
Tagovailoa and his wife, Annah Gore, welcomed a baby boy, Ace, in November. He was in the midst of an MVP-caliber campaign derailed by concussions but finished 2022 with an NFL-leading 8.9 yards per pass attempt.
The 25-year-old is returning despite outside health concerns in hopes of leading Miami back to the playoffs. Yet to receive a new contract this offseason, Tagovailoa will open the 2023 season against the newly extended Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers.