Raja Jackson Arrested After On-Stream Wrestling Attack
Raja Jackson, son of UFC legend Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, has been arrested and charged with a felony following an alleged assault on independent wrestler Stuart Smith, also known as Syko Stu. The incident occurred at a KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy show in August and was even streamed live on Kick.
According to reports, the 25-year-old Jackson stormed the ring and repeatedly punched Smith, leaving him with significant head and facial injuries. The attack stemmed from a previous backstage altercation where Smith reportedly hit Jackson with a beer can. While the two initially seemed to reconcile, Jackson later indicated on his private stream that he intended to retaliate.
The attack itself was brutal. Jackson slammed Smith to the mat and then pummeled him with over 20 closed-fist punches while Smith was unconscious. It took more than 10 seconds for others to intervene. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed receiving a call about a possible attempted murder, but Jackson had already left the scene.
TMZ reported that Raja Jackson was arrested on Thursday morning and is being held on $50,000 bail. He was booked on a felony charge.
Controversial Reactions and Industry Fallout
The incident has sparked controversy within the professional wrestling community. While many condemned Jackson's actions, some veterans like Rob Van Dam and Mark Henry faced criticism for their initial reactions.
KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy, where the incident occurred, has condemned the attack. The academy, once affiliated with WWE, has since distanced itself from the company. A GoFundMe campaign launched to support Syko Stu has raised thousands, including a significant donation from YouTuber MrBeast.
Syko Stu has since been released from the hospital but continues to recover from his injuries. Rampage Jackson has stated that he believes his son needs jail time to reflect on his actions.
Before the assault, Jackson reportedly told viewers that it was his "dream to f**k up a pro wrestler" and warned that he was "really going to hit him." This premeditation is a key factor in the felony charge.