Xian took part in subjugating Wuhuan lands and as a result upset the Han dynasty.

Han envoys attempted to split up the Xiongnu by creating 15 different chanyus.

When Wuzhuliu died in 13 AD, the Xiongnu Princess Xubu Juci Yun wished to remain on good relations with the Han, so she arranged for the succession to go to Xian, who became Wulei Chanyu.

Wulei initially acquiesced to Han demands to return fugitives who had fled to the Xiongnu, but changed his mind when he realized his son, Deng, had died while still living in Chang'an.

Wulei died in 18 AD and was succeeded by his half-brother Huduershidaogao Chanyu.