Raja Jackson, son of MMA icon Rampage Jackson, brutally assaulted pro wrestler Syko Stu in a livestreamed incident. Discover what unfolded, reactions, investigation status, and key updates.
What Happened: The Incident in the Ring
On August 23, 2025, at a Knokx Pro Wrestling event in Los Angeles, Raja Jackson—25-year-old son of former UFC champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson—entered the ring and body-slammed wrestler Stuart Smith (known as Syko Stu), followed by more than 20 punches while Stu was motionless. The scene was broadcast live on Kick.
Smith was hospitalized with serious injuries, though he was reported to be awake and stable by the night of the incident.
Police Investigation & Platform Ban
The Los Angeles Police Department is actively investigating the assault after receiving a report from the event.
Meanwhile, the streaming platform Kick banned Raja for the incident due to the excessive, real violence.
Rampage Jackson Speaks Out
Afterward, Rampage Jackson addressed the incident on X (formerly Twitter), clarifying that he believed it was a planned spot that “went wrong”. He emphasized that Raja had suffered a concussion days prior and should not have been involved in pro wrestling. He strongly condemned the violence and expressed concern for Syko Stu’s recovery.
Later reports noted an old video resurfacing where Rampage had joked about saving bail money for Raja—a remark now seen as prescient.
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…
— Rampage Jackson (@Rampage4real) August 24, 2025
Background Context & Profile
- Raja Jackson: 25, MMA fighter—turned pro in 2023, holding a 4-0 amateur record.
- Syko Stu: Independent pro wrestler and Army veteran; the assault highlighted risks when scripted performance crosses into real violence.
The clash appears to stem from a planned wrestling spot that devolved when Raja feared being disrespected—possibly influenced by a prior backstage hit by Smith—even though the act was supposed to be choreographed.
Legal & Ethical Fallout
- Legal angle: LAPD’s investigation may lead to charges, depending on video evidence and Smith’s condition.
- Community reaction: Wrestlers like Douglas Malo called it “tragic” and “barbaric”—the promotion labeled it unprecedented in their 17-year history.
- Broadcast accountability: Kick’s ban raises questions about streamer moderation of live violence in combat-themed entertainment.