Action Figure Review: Hao - Wanderlei Silva
In celebration of Wanderlei Silva’s first win in nearly two years, I am going to review his Hao action figure. For those that do not know about Hao products, they’re a Japanese toy company producing MMA, Japanese Wrestling and K-1 figurines. When first released, they range from $35-$60(including shipping). I buy mine from a local toy flea market for about $35. They only produce a limited amount of each figures so if you like one, you better snatch it right away. The secondary market value for these figures skyrocket a couple of months after they are released, ranging from $90 - $200.
Without further ado, here’s my Wanderlei Silva review:
Packaging:
Comes in a blue backboard with Silva’s training camp logo in the Pride FC days, Chute Boxe. It also has the Dream Stage logo, the company that produced Pride.
Silva comes in a clear bubble case so you can check him out from all angles.
My signed figure
One thing about Hao packaging is that you can open it up without destroying the package. It’s not sealed with plastic so you don’t have to rip it open. The backboard can be removed and the figure comes out.
Grade: 9/10
Sculpt:
The resemblance is uncanny. Just one look at the figure and MMA fans will know right away it’s supposed to be the Axe Murderer. For such a simple 6.5 inch looking figure the details are awesome. Silva is in his trademark pre fight warm up knuckle pose. He is in his Chute Box vale tudo shorts and wearing the Pride gloves. Silva is also known for his tattoo on the back of his head and the figure has it as well. Yep, the tattoo even looks the real counterpart.
Tattoo on the back of his head.
Side view
Some people have a problem with they style since it’s cartoony. But for me, I love it because it captures the fighters personalities.
Back view
Grade: 10/10
Articulation:
This is more like a small model than an actual toy. You can move his arms vertically. The other two articulation are in his neck and waist.
Grade: 3/10
Variations:
Hao released a second version with the Pride FC belt. I don’t know which one is more rare as I saw both of them during their initial releases.
Silva wanting a piece of Mrs. Clause - comparison shot
Conclusion:
This is my favorite MMA action figure since it captures Silva’s killer instinct and the resemblance is great. Right now the figure is going for about $100-$125.
Overall rating(not an average): 10/10 - Must have for any MMA fan.
5 Responses to “Action Figure Review: Hao - Wanderlei Silva”
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How are you? Wanted to thank you for the great info on this particular Wand action figure. I am a huge fan of his and did not hesitate to bid on this figure and win it for $187.00 + $10.00 shipping. I saw your review After I won it and was relieved and happy I did. You gfave me the right info I wanted to hear. I now have a little investement! jeje…I do have a question for you. What would your, or my figure go for if I get it signed by Wandy some day? not that I would but just a question…Once again, great info and I thank you…JC
I’m doing well. Thanks for checking out my review. I’m glad you bought the figure. It’s my favorite MMA figure and you won’t regret it. I’m surprised his value went up but I guess after knocking out Jardine, UFC fans love him. I really don’t know how much they go up in value if it’s signed, maybe an extra $50 or so?
If you want a fighter’s autograph, best bet is to go to weigh ins or wait for them after the event. Usually, they’re more than happy to sign autographs. Just be courteous.
If anyone wants HAO figues I can get you any fighter you want. Just email me.
Hey,I’ve seen 3 different types of the Silva HAOs any idea of what edition yours is?
Thanks
Mine is the first edition. Second edition came with the middleweight belt. Third edition has a black backboard.