Quinton “Rampage” Jackson has publicly addressed the shocking incident involving his son, Raja Jackson, who brutally attacked professional wrestler Syko Stu during a KnokX Pro Wrestling event on August 23rd. The violent episode, which was livestreamed and widely circulated online, has sparked a police investigation and deep concerns throughout the wrestling community, including backstage WWE drama related to the potential return of AJ Lee.
At the heart of this controversy, video footage shows Raja Jackson entering the ring during a match and delivering more than 20 unprotected punches to an apparently unconscious Stuart Smith (Syko Stu), escalating what was supposed to be a scripted wrestling spot into a dangerous real-life assault. The beatdown left Stu incapacitated and rattled fans and colleagues alike[1][2][3].
Rampage Jackson’s Reaction and Family Impact
Quinton Jackson, former UFC light heavyweight champion and MMA star, expressed deep regret and concern in a recent interview about his son’s actions. While maintaining a sense of responsibility, Rampage also emphasized the complexity of the situation, acknowledging that what was meant to be a cooperative wrestling angle spiraled disastrously out of control. According to sources close to Rampage, he has stated, “My son should be in jail,” underscoring the severity of Raja’s actions and the family’s turmoil following the incident[5].
The assault incident has also unfortunately led to racist threats directed at the Jackson family, complicating the aftermath even further and prompting Rampage to publicly condemn the online harassment his family has faced alongside the violent actions of his son[5].
Official Response from KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy and Ongoing Investigation
KnokX Pro Entertainment & Academy swiftly released a statement condemning Raja Jackson’s unscripted and excessive violence. The organization apologized to fans and the wrestling community, describing the attack as “reprehensible” and without precedent in their 17 years of operation[2][3]. The incident has become a major legal matter, with the Los Angeles Police Department actively investigating the case. According to TMZ and LAPD sources, Raja Jackson could face imminent arrest as investigations continue[1][2].
Internally, KnokX management reportedly requested wrestlers refrain from cooperating with law enforcement at present, a move that has drawn criticism and added tension backstage[4].
WWE’s Position and Potential Fallout
Amid this chaos, WWE has officially severed ties with KnokX Pro Wrestling following the incident, as confirmed by various wrestling news outlets and insiders. The decision highlights WWE’s ongoing commitment to performer safety and maintaining its brand reputation in a landscape increasingly sensitive to violence and misconduct[4].
Moreover, backstage WWE developments are drawing attention due to rumors linking an absent WWE star’s potential “crash out” should AJ Lee return to the company. According to multiple wrestling podcasts and Fightful reports, there are indications that some talent feel threatened or destabilized by the anticipation of AJ Lee’s comeback—a factor adding another layer of backstage intrigue in the weeks following the Raja Jackson fallout.
What’s Next for Raja Jackson and the Wrestling Community?
With the LAPD investigation underway and legal consequences looming, Raja Jackson’s wrestling career is in serious jeopardy. Meanwhile, Rampage Jackson, wrestling promoters, and fans anxiously await updates on Syko Stu’s health status, which remains a priority for the KnokX Pro Academy.
The incident has ignited debates within the wrestling community about ring safety, the blurred line between scripted entertainment and real violence, and the responsibilities of performers and promoters in maintaining control during live events. Rampage’s candid remarks, coupled with official condemnations and law enforcement action, make this a critical moment for discussions about accountability in wrestling’s independent circuits.
Sources: Statements from Rampage Jackson’s interviews, KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy’s release, LAPD investigations reported by ESPN and Los Angeles Times, and insider reports from Fightful and WWE.com.
This incident starkly reminds the wrestling industry of the thin line that performers tread in blending storylines with physical reality, underscoring the urgent need for stronger oversight and professional accountability to protect all involved.