Raja Jackson, the son of former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, shocked fans on Saturday, August 23, when he assaulted a professional wrestler during an independent event in California. The incident, which unfolded at a Knokx Pro Wrestling show, was broadcast live on streaming platform Kick.
Brutal Ring Assault Caught on Camera
In the now-viral video, Raja can be seen entering the ring and launching an attack on wrestler Stuart Smith, also known as Syko Stu. The 25-year-old lifted Smith overhead before slamming him violently onto the mat. Raja then mounted Smith and unleashed a barrage of punches on his face.
Smith appeared unconscious from the slam and unable to defend himself during the onslaught. Other wrestlers quickly rushed in to restrain Raja in the corner of the ring.
The footage also shows an earlier altercation that day, in which Smith seemingly struck Raja with a beer bottle, believed to have sparked the violent retaliation.
Planned Spot Gone Wrong
Initial reports suggested that the interaction between Raja and Smith was planned as part of the wrestling storyline. However, the intensity of Raja’s attack went far beyond expectations.
Smith was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries, with rumors initially spreading online that he may have died from the incident.
Rampage Jackson Clears the Air
Quinton “Rampage” Jackson quickly addressed the situation on X (formerly Twitter), dismissing the rumors of Smith’s death and confirming that the wrestler was “awake and stable.”
The UFC legend admitted that the incident was “a work that went wrong” and condemned his son’s actions.
“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 a part 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!”
Rampage also revealed that Raja had suffered a concussion from sparring only days earlier, which made the incident even more concerning.
“He suffered a concussion from sparring only days ago and had no business doing anything remotely close to physical contact. As a father, I’m 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,” he added.