An update on the chaotic scene that unfolded at a recent KnokX Pro Wrestling event in Los Angeles, as Raja Jackson, son of MMA legend Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, engaged in a brutal, unscheduled attack on veteran professional wrestler Stuart "Syko Stu" Smith.
The incident, which was captured on video during a live stream on Kick, has resulted in serious injuries for Smith and prompted investigations by both law enforcement and the wrestling promotion itself.
Footage of the altercation shows Jackson entering the ring and forcefully slamming Smith to the canvas. Smith appears to lose consciousness upon impact. Jackson then mounted his opponent and delivered a barrage of over twenty punches to Smith's head before other wrestlers intervened to stop the assault.
One of these interveners, "The Epic" Douglas Malo, a guest on "The Scaling Up Podcast," was present at the event and stated he effectively saved Stu from further harm.
Another wrestler was also seen pinning an unconscious Syko Stu after the initial assault. The podcast discussion also raised concerns that the assault may have been premeditated, with some suggesting Jackson was encouraged to harm Stu.
This in-ring violence followed an earlier altercation where Smith was filmed striking Jackson on the head with a canned beverage. According to a video, Smith had mistaken Jackson for a fellow wrestler. While the precise sequence of events and motivations are still under scrutiny, KnokX Pro Wrestling has labeled the incident a "work that went wrong," suggesting a planned segment that devolved into real violence.
However, the severity of Smith's injuries, which include broken facial bones and lost teeth, casts serious doubt on this initial characterization.
According to Doug, Smith had to be medically induced into a coma due to the severity of his injuries. The hosts also claimed that after the assault, Raja showed no remorse, citing personal issues as a reason for his actions. The wrestling school has been accused of not cooperating with the police.
Quinton "Rampage" Jackson has since issued a public apology for his son's actions, citing a recent concussion Raja had sustained and stating he should not have been participating in any physical activity. In response, the person who intervened to stop the assault has challenged Rampage Jackson to a charity boxing match to raise money for Syko Stu's medical expenses.
In the aftermath, reports have surfaced regarding potential support for Syko Stu. Notably, online personality MrBeast has allegedly offered assistance to Smith, although the specifics and authenticity of this offer are still developing.
The Los Angeles Police Department has confirmed they are investigating the incident. Meanwhile, Syko Stu's family has acknowledged the outpouring of support but has also warned against fraudulent fundraising efforts in his name. They have stated that he is in stable but critical condition.
Douglas Malo also noted the long-term consequences of the event, including the trauma experienced by children who witnessed the assault.
The investigations underway will likely focus on the breakdown in protocol, the instigating factors behind the violence, and the accountability of all parties involved.