Hallie Aiono, the longtime girlfriend of Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, is expecting their first child. On June 16, she filed a petition in Los Angeles County seeking to legally confirm Nacua as the father of the unborn baby, requesting full physical custody as well as joint legal custody, which would allow both parents to make decisions regarding the child’s education and healthcare. The petition also asks for financial support covering pregnancy-related costs and associated legal fees.
Amid the legal proceedings, Hallie expressed a message of resilience and hope through an Instagram Story posted on July 8.
“Hurt people hurt others, but luckily, healed people heal others. Safe people, shelter others. Free spirits, free others. Enlightened people, illuminate others. And love always wins. So shine your light of love on all who may cross your path in life, because what you do matters,” —Hallie Aiono
Shortly after, she shared a short video featuring her baby bump followed by fireworks, captioned “Boy’s first fireworks,” signaling pride and joy despite the challenges ahead.
While Hallie remained at home during this time, Nacua took part in a community football event in Levant, Maine, where he played with children, maintaining his engagement both on and off the field.
Pregnancy Reveal Timed Perfectly With Mother’s Day
Hallie Aiono and Puka Nacua first publicly announced the pregnancy on May 12, 2025, aligning the news with Mother’s Day. Hallie posted a series of Instagram photos and videos including sonogram images, a maternity shoot featuring her in a white dress, and a gender reveal that incorporated a decorated bundt cake.
“You were something we always dreamt of, but I have never been so afraid. I wasn’t planning for this now, but I know your timing is divine. There are a lot of “why’s” in life currently, but I know that for the rest of my life, you will be my “why”. I can’t wait to love you forever, my sweet boy,” —Hallie Aiono
As summer unfolded, Hallie continued to post pregnancy updates alone while Nacua participated in the Rams’ minicamp held in Maui, Hawaii, reflecting a period of physical distance amid the unfolding legal situation.
Puka Nacua on Family and Career Aspirations
Puka Nacua has previously shared his desire to focus on family and early retirement. In a podcast episode of Join the Lobby aired March 24, he expressed his wish to retire by the age of 30 and raise a large family.
“I want to retire at the age of 30… I came from a big family, so I need five boys, for sure. But also, I want to be able to be a part of their lives and be as active as I can with them.” —Puka Nacua
Professionally, Nacua was drafted in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL draft by the Los Angeles Rams. He quickly made history as the first Rams player to record over 150 receiving yards alongside a rushing touchdown and a receiving touchdown in a single game, demonstrating his versatility and impact on the team.
Ongoing Situation and Implications for the Future
The paternity petition filed by Hallie Aiono underscores a critical moment for the couple as they navigate both legal and personal challenges surrounding the upcoming birth. Establishing formal custody and support arrangements will be essential for clarifying parental roles and securing resources necessary for the child’s well-being. Meanwhile, Nacua’s presence in community activities reveals his commitment beyond football, even as his professional career advances.
The resolution of this legal process will likely influence how both parents balance raising their child together while managing their individual public and private lives. With clear determination and hope expressed by Hallie, this period marks the beginning of a new chapter for the couple and their expanding family.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Puka Nacua cry?
A. The story is moving: Puka lost his dad, Lionel Nacua, to diabetes when he was just 11. Puka’s dad always dreamed of him playing in the NFL. So, whenever Puka plays, he thinks about his dad and lets his feelings show.
Q. What is Puka Nacua’s nationality?
A. Nacua has Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese background. His nickname, “Puka,” comes from the Samoan word for fat and chubby, which he got because he was a large baby. He was raised in Provo, Utah, and went to Orem High School in Orem, Utah.
Q. What ethnicity is Puka Nacua?
A. Nacua’s background includes Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese roots. As a baby, he was given the nickname “Puka,” which means fat and chubby in Samoan.