Particle.news
Download on the App Store
33 ARTICLES
·
4w ago

WWE Writes Jacob Fatu Off SmackDown With Backstage Attack as Main Event Is Replaced

The angle followed conflicting reports about a non-wrestling issue, with PWInsider citing dental recovery and BodySlam previously warning of a lengthy absence.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 17: Nia Jax and Bianca Belair in action during Smackdown at Pechanga Arena on January 17, 2025 in San Diego, California.
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • On the SmackDown broadcast from San Jose, cameras found Jacob Fatu bloodied and pinned beneath equipment backstage, leaving him unable to compete.
  • The advertised No. 1 contender match between Fatu and Drew McIntyre was pulled, and McIntyre instead faced WWE champion Cody Rhodes in an impromptu bout that ended in a disqualification.
  • General manager Nick Aldis confronted McIntyre on air, McIntyre denied involvement in the attack, and no replacement No. 1 contender was named.
  • PWInsider reported Fatu was not cleared due to a recent dental procedure and could return soon, contrasting BodySlam.net’s earlier claim he might be out well into 2026.
  • WWE’s on-screen write-off resolved the night’s card change but left plans for Fatu, the McIntyre feud, and the immediate title picture uncertain ahead of Nov. 1’s Saturday Night’s Main Event.