WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam (RVD) has once again voiced his refusal to apologize for his controversial remarks supporting MMA fighter Raja Jackson following the infamous KnokX Pro wrestling incident involving independent wrestler Syko Stu. Amid a fierce backlash from fans and online wrestling communities, RVD doubled down on his stance during multiple podcast appearances, dismissing his detractors as “simple-minded” and “cyber bullies” who cannot handle differing opinions.

The feud began in late August 2025, when Raja Jackson, son of MMA legend Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, abruptly attacked Syko Stu mid-match at the KnokX Pro event, sparking outrage across pro wrestling circles. While most industry figures condemned Jackson’s actions outright, RVD took a nuanced approach on his “1 Of A Kind” podcast. He expressed sympathy for Syko Stu’s injuries but also attempted to analyze the circumstances leading Jackson to retaliate after reportedly being hit with a can without explanation[1].

“I wanna start out by saying best wishes to f***ing Syko Stu Smith,” RVD said, stressing that Stu “didn’t deserve what happened to him” and hoping for his swift recovery[1]. However, RVD then explained he wasn’t defending the assault but understood how the provocation might have led Raja to lose control. “If Raja’s position needs somebody to explain what happened, then I got his back as far as that goes,” he stated emphatically on his show[1].

This perspective triggered immense online criticism, with many accusing RVD of excusing violence. Instead of apologizing, RVD addressed his critics again on the “TMZ Inside The Ring” podcast, where his frustration was palpable. He denounced the harsh online responses as toxic bullying from what he described as “basic thinkers” incapable of processing nuanced opinions. “They’re not real people… The real people say things to your face,” Van Dam said, labeling many internet users as cowards hiding behind anonymity to attack differing views[2].

RVD continued: “You’re not allowed to have an opinion that’s different from theirs… They feel obligated to send all kinds of just toxic junk.” He criticized what he called the “oversensitive” wrestling fan community for turning disagreement into a crime[2].

Adding further clarity to his position during a later “1 Of A Kind” episode, RVD acknowledged that Raja Jackson likely should not have been involved in the pro wrestling event at all, echoing sentiments from WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry who also condemned Jackson’s participation[3]. Still, RVD insisted his support was for understanding the full context, not an endorsement of violence.

“I’m not saying I’m standing back to back and fighting a crowd trying to lynch him. I see the pathway that he took that led to what happened,” RVD emphasized[3]. His comment on X (formerly Twitter) discussing Raja Jackson had gone viral, amassing over 3 million views by early September 2025, highlighting the widespread debate his opinions had sparked[3].

WWE insiders and sources close to RVD reveal the veteran remains undeterred by the online backlash, standing by his right to voice a complex viewpoint in a heated, often polarized environment. According to those familiar with RVD’s mindset, he views the wrestling community’s quick rush to condemn any dissent as part of a broader cultural trend toward cancel culture, which he openly resists.

“It’s about having the courage to say something other than the popular opinion. RVD believes in honesty over appeasement, even if that means alienating fans,” said a WWE insider familiar with his recent statements.

The ongoing controversy has also reignited conversations about the boundaries between MMA and professional wrestling, particularly regarding the participation of fighters like Raja Jackson in unscripted altercations within wrestling shows. Industry figures like RVD and Mark Henry urge clearer protocols to protect performers and avoid such dangerous incidents.

Rob Van Dam’s unwavering stance amidst intense criticism underscores a growing tension between openness to multifaceted discussions and the sensitivities of a passionate fan base in today’s wrestling world. As the KnokX Pro incident continues to be dissected, RVD’s voice remains one of the most provocative and unyielding among wrestling veterans.

Key Points:

• Rob Van Dam defended having “Raja Jackson’s back” in context of the KnokX Pro attack on Syko Stu but did not condone violence[1].
• RVD called his critics “simple-minded” and “cyber bullies” who attack differing viewpoints from the safety of the internet[2].
• He maintained that wrestling fans often show an “oversensitive” tendency to label disagreement as a crime[2].
• During his podcast, RVD echoed Mark Henry’s view that Jackson should not have been involved in the event, but RVD sees nuance in what provoked Jackson[3].
• Over 3 million people viewed RVD’s viral social media post about the incident, reflecting huge public interest[3].
• Wrestling insiders confirm RVD is committed to expressing honest viewpoints despite backlash, resisting cancel culture within the wrestling community.

As the story unfolds, Rob Van Dam’s candid commentary continues to stir debate on accountability, empathy, and discourse limits within professional wrestling’s passionate fanbase.

This controversy demonstrates WWE Hall of Famer RVD’s readiness to challenge popular opinion and defend thoughtful complexity—even under fire—solidifying his legacy as a candid and uncompromising voice in pro wrestling media.

Sources: “1 Of A Kind” podcast, TMZ Inside The Ring podcast, Wrestling Inc., Wrestling News, SI.com