Rampage Jackson’s Son Raja Under Fire After Attacking Syko Stu at Wrestling Event
A wrestling match turned tragic when Raja Jackson, son of MMA legend Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, violently attacked independent wrestler Stuart “Syko Stu” Smith during a live event in Los Angeles.
The shocking incident took place on August 23, 2025, at a KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy show in Sun Valley. Wrestling fans worldwide watched in disbelief as what began as a storyline moment spiraled into a real-life assault that left Smith hospitalized with serious injuries.
A Scripted Spot Turns Real
According to video footage and eyewitnesses, Smith hit Jackson with a beer can during a livestream, assuming the moment was part of the planned performance. In professional wrestling, this type of improvised physicality is often rehearsed and controlled. However, Raja Jackson didn’t see it that way.
Trainers attempted to calm the situation. Reno Anoa’i, speaking during the stream, said, “He always think that we’re working over here, like it’s a part of the (expletive) storyline.” Both men eventually shook hands and appeared to move on. But that peace did not last long.
Brutal Attack Captured Live
Later that night, Raja Jackson stormed the ring. He lifted Syko Stu into a devastating body slam, then rained down more than 20 punches while Smith lay motionless on the mat. Other wrestlers and staff rushed in to pull Jackson off.
The live broadcast captured every moment. Fans in the arena, including children, screamed as chaos unfolded. Wrestler Douglas “The Epic” Malo, who helped stop the assault, later said, “He would’ve killed him.”
Severe Injuries and Hospitalization
Emergency responders transported Smith to a local hospital. He was unconscious when he arrived. Doctors confirmed serious trauma, including a severe head injury, fractures in his upper and lower jaws, a broken maxilla, a split lip, and multiple missing teeth.
Though he’s now home and recovering, the impact of the attack could affect him for life. Smith’s family launched a GoFundMe to help cover medical bills, which quickly gained traction. YouTuber MrBeast and thousands of fans contributed, raising over $175,000.
Rampage Jackson Responds
Former UFC champion Rampage Jackson released a statement expressing disappointment and concern. He confirmed that his son had suffered a concussion days earlier and should not have been near any physical activity.
“I don’t condone my son’s actions AT ALL,” Rampage said. “My concern now is that Mr. Smith makes a full recovery. I apologize on my son’s behalf.”
Rampage added that he hadn’t spoken with Raja since the incident and acknowledged the embarrassment the attack caused his family.
KnokX Pro Academy Condemns the Incident
KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy released a public statement the same night. They clarified that the beatdown was not part of any scripted storyline. They described Raja’s behavior as “selfish” and “irresponsible” and confirmed that Jackson had been banned from future events.
The academy has since removed mentions of past WWE affiliations from its website, distancing itself from the wider wrestling industry amid media attention.
LAPD Investigation Underway
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that it is investigating the incident as a possible felony assault. Detectives are reviewing footage and speaking with witnesses who were present during the live event.
Legal experts believe criminal charges are likely. Civil lawsuits may also follow, as Smith has reportedly hired legal representation.
Mixed Reactions from the Combat Sports Community
MMA figures have responded with a range of opinions. UFC veteran Matt Brown called for felony charges and even suggested prison time for Raja. Meanwhile, UFC middleweight Sean Strickland took a different view.
Strickland argued that Jackson needs therapy, not jail time, reflecting on his own past and the importance of second chances. “People forget what it’s like to feel lost,” he said on social media.
Javier Mendez, a respected MMA coach, added a layer of controversy. He claimed Syko Stu may have provoked Jackson and hinted the promotion mishandled the situation for attention.
What’s Next for Raja Jackson and Syko Stu?
While Raja Jackson has not released a personal statement, he has been banned from the Kick streaming platform, where he had built a growing audience.
On the other hand, Syko Stu continues his recovery at home, surrounded by family, friends, and fans who have shown unwavering support. Many in the wrestling world see him as a victim of a dangerous breakdown in safety protocols. Lawyers from both sides are expected to weigh in soon, and any forthcoming charges or lawsuits will set the tone for what’s next.
At The Heavyweight Factory, we celebrate combat sports, from boxing to MMA to wrestling, as displays of athleticism, drama, and human endurance. But the line between scripted entertainment and real violence must never be blurred to the point of danger.
