Son of Ex-UFC Champion Assaults Wrestler During Match

A violent incident unfolded at the KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy in Los Angeles on March 25, 2023, when Raja Jackson, son of former UFC champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, assaulted professional wrestler Stuart Smith, known in the ring as Syko Stu. The altercation, which was livestreamed, shows Jackson body-slamming Smith before delivering a series of at least 20 punches to the apparently unconscious wrestler.

Witnesses reported that Raja Jackson deviated from the scripted performance during what was intended to be a routine match. Following the attack, other wrestlers intervened to separate Jackson from Smith, who was left on the floor of the ring. Raja then fled the scene as authorities were called in. The Los Angeles Police Department is currently investigating the incident.

In a statement posted on Facebook, KnokX Pro Entertainment & Academy condemned Jackson’s actions, emphasizing that the incident was not part of the planned performance. The academy expressed concern for Smith’s well-being, stating, “What was supposed to be a planned and agreed-upon wrestling spot turned into a selfish, irresponsible act of violence against Mr. Smith.” They added that such a serious incident had not occurred in their 17 years of operation, and they offered their apologies to patrons and fans.

Stuart Smith is a 25-year-old wrestler who has publicly identified as a U.S. military veteran. He turned to wrestling as a means to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder. In contrast, Raja Jackson, also a mixed martial artist, lost his only professional fight in 2023.

In a social media post, Quinton Jackson commented on the assault, indicating that it was part of an earlier misunderstanding. Smith had reportedly struck Raja in the head earlier in the day, which may have contributed to the escalation during the match. “Raja was told that he could get his ‘payback’ in the ring,” Rampage Jackson explained. He characterized the incident as a “bad judgment” call, adding that his son, who recently suffered a concussion from sparring, should not have participated in a physical performance.

Quinton Jackson, who held the UFC light heavyweight championship from 2007 to 2008, transitioned to professional wrestling and acting after his MMA career, including a notable role as B.A. Baracus in the 2010 film reboot of “The A-Team.”

As the investigation by the police continues, the wrestling community is left to grapple with the implications of the incident, raising concerns about safety and conduct within the sport.