The father of an MMA fighter, who was seen attacking a wrestler in a viral video, has addressed the ensuing controversy.
MMA fighter Raja Jackson, son of Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson, was caught on camera at an independent wrestling event, forcefully taking down a professional wrestler.
The incident, which occurred at a Los Angeles KnokX Pro Wrestling event, quickly spread across social media, with many criticizing the number of punches delivered to Stuart Smith, also known as Syko Stu.
The video depicts 25-year-old Jackson lifting Syko Stu over his head, slamming him to the mat, and repeatedly punching him while he appeared to be unconscious.
Other wrestlers soon intervened, jumping into the ring to stop Jackson from continuing his assault.
Sean Ross Sapp, a Fightful reporter, indicated that the altercation between Jackson and Smith was prearranged, but the intensity of the violence was not anticipated.
The journalist stated on X, formerly Twitter, that while the confrontation was ‘planned’, the extent of the damage was not.
He added that the wrestler was taken to the hospital with significant injuries following the incident.
The LAPD has confirmed to the New York Times that they are investigating the matter but have not provided further comments.
Douglas Malo, one of the wrestlers who intervened, informed USA Today that Syko Stu was conscious and communicative in an August 24 update, although he had lost several teeth and sustained facial fractures.
Another video circulating online may shed light on the punches’ provocation.
It shows the former US army veteran striking Jackson on the side of the head with what appears to be a can, with liquid spraying out after the hit.
Raja was allegedly instructed to give Smith a ‘receipt’ (wrestling slang for payback) and was heard saying on his livestream: “As long as I get my lick back, I’m straight. They told me to hit him and just leave, someone will pull me off of him and we’ll leave. I’m telling you I’m gonna hit him as many times as I can, watch.”
Amidst the backlash, Rampage Jackson, father of Raja and former UFC fighter, has responded to the incident.
Quinton Randi Jackson, known as Rampage, is a former mixed martial artist, actor, kickboxer, and professional wrestler with extensive experience in the ring.
He clarified his response was to address the misinformation surrounding Raja following the viral incident.
While confirming that Stu is ‘awake and stable’, he detailed the pre-event altercation between the fighters.
He explained: “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 part of the show.”
Calling it a case of ‘bad judgement’ and a ‘work that went wrong’, Rampage expressed that Jackson should not have been in the ring with Stu, given his background as an MMA fighter rather than a wrestler.
In wrestling terminology, a ‘work’ is a staged or scripted event.
Rampage also noted that his son had recently suffered a concussion from sparring and should not have been involved in any physical confrontation.
“I don’t condone my son’s actions AT ALL!” he added.
As a father, he expressed concern for both his son’s health and the well-being of Mr. Smith, conveying: “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.”
Some individuals online were critical of the apology, suggesting it made excuses for Raja’s actions.
One user commented: “Your son threw 22 haymakers at an unconscious man like a total lunatic he needs locking up.”
Another remarked: “Bro wtf you talking about ‘Raja is a MMA fighter not a pro wrestler’ LOOOOOOL your son didn’t know the difference between a real MMA fight and a show?
“Imagine a civilized person who doesn’t see the difference and hits someone unconscious…”
However, others defended Jackson, claiming the pre-fight confrontation justified the unexpected violence.
One supporter stated: “I think we all understand why he did it, anyone would have reacted the same way but we need to help him release that anger in healthier ways.”
In a social media statement, KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy extended apologies to their fans, emphasizing their concern for Syko Stu’s well-being.
They expressed: “First and foremost our thoughts and prayers are with our brother Mr. Stuart Smith (Syko Stu) as he remains a priority and we are monitoring his well being.
“What was supposed to be a planned and agreed upon wrestling spot, turned into a selfish, irresponsible act of violence against Mr. Smith. This egregious act is reprehensible and never should have occurred.
“In the 17 years of operation of KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy, there has never been anything as heinous take place such as this and we apologize to our patrons and fans.”
LADbible Group previously reached out to Raja Jackson and Kick for comments.