Who is Raja Jackson? Why did he hit Syko Stu? Here’s what happened
MMA Fighter Raja Jackson Brutally Attacks Wrestler Live! Rampage Jackson’s son shocks fans with violent outburst at Knokx Pro Wrestling event.
An independent wrestling show in Los Angeles turned violent on Saturday, August 23, when Raja Jackson — son of former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson — appeared to seriously injure professional wrestler Stuart Smith, known by his ring name Syko Stu.
The incident unfolded at a Knokx Pro Wrestling event and was streamed live on Kick, leaving viewers stunned as a planned appearance spiraled out of control.
From Planned Spot to Real Violence
According to multiple wrestling insiders, Raja’s involvement in the show was intended as part of a scripted sequence. Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp explained that the confrontation was meant to be staged, but Raja’s actions went much further than expected. In the footage, Raja lifted Smith over his head and slammed him violently onto the mat before unleashing a flurry of heavy punches. Smith, who appeared to be unconscious, was left motionless until other wrestlers rushed in to restrain Raja.
Smith was later rushed to the hospital with what reports describe as serious injuries. His current condition has sparked concern among fans and raised urgent questions about safety protocols at independent wrestling events.
Tensions Before the Match
Footage released earlier in the day suggested the two men had exchanged heated words before the bout. At one point, Smith appeared to strike Raja with a canned drink. Witnesses claim this incident may have fueled the aggression that played out in the ring.
Rampage Jackson Issues an Apology
Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, a UFC legend and proud father to Raja, quickly moved to issue a statement. Confirming that Smith is “awake and stable,” Rampage admitted the situation was “a work that went wrong.”
He wrote: “I want to clear up the misinformation about my son Raja. I’ve been confirmed that the wrestler ( Stewart Smith aka Syko Stu) is awake and stable. Raja was unexpectedly hit in the side of the head by him moments before Smith’s match, Raja was told that he could get his “payback”in the ring,i thought it was apart of the show. It was bad judgement, and a work that went wrong.
“Raja is a MMA fighter not a pro wrestler and had no business involved in an event like this. I don’t condone my son’s actions AT ALL! He suffered a concussion from sparring only days ago and had no business doing anything remotely close to physical contact. As a father, im deeply concerned with his health AND the well being of Mr. Smith.
“That being said I’m very upset that any of this happened,but my main concern now is that Mr. Smith will make a speedy recovery.I apologize on his behalf and to KICK for the situation.”
I want to clear up the misinformation about my son Raja. I’ve been confirmed that the wrestler ( Stewart Smith aka Syko Stu) is awake and stable. Raja was unexpectedly hit in the side of the head by him moments before Smith’s match, Raja was told that he could get his “payback”in…
— Rampage Jackson (@Rampage4real) August 24, 2025
Wrestling Community Reacts
The wrestling world has been quick to weigh in. Dave Meltzer, founder of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter and one of the sport’s most respected voices, described Raja’s assault as “possibly the worst thing I’ve ever seen in a ring.” Others pointed to the dangers of blending combat sports fighters into professional wrestling storylines without proper training or safeguards.
Raja Jackson’s Background
At 25, Raja Jackson is still early in his combat sports career. After an undefeated amateur MMA run, he turned professional in 2023 but lost his debut fight via unanimous decision. While his pedigree as the son of a UFC great has drawn attention, his latest actions are threatening to overshadow his budding career.
The Larger Picture
The controversy leaves both wrestling promoters and the Jackson family in the spotlight. For Knokx Pro Wrestling, questions remain over why Raja was placed in such a role despite being an outsider to the sport. For Rampage Jackson, the episode has become a painful balancing act — defending his son’s health while apologizing to the man whose career and well-being now hang in the balance.
As Smith continues his recovery and investigations into the incident unfold, the debate over where showmanship ends and real danger begins in professional wrestling has been reignited.
