Mixed martial arts competitor Raja Jackson is under investigation following a brutal assault on fellow wrestler Syko Stu (real name Stuart Smith) during a match at a KnokX Pro Wrestling event in California last month. The incident, which left Smith hospitalized, has drawn significant attention and condemnation from the wrestling community.
Witnesses report that the confrontation escalated dramatically after a prior altercation outside the venue, during which Smith allegedly struck Jackson with a beer. The situation deteriorated during the match when Jackson body-slammed Smith before launching a terrifying barrage of 22 punches to his head. Eyewitness accounts describe an alarming scene, with security personnel and fellow wrestlers eventually intervening to separate the two competitors.
Upon arrival at the emergency room, Smith was found to be unconscious and choking. Medical examinations revealed that he sustained serious injuries, including trauma to both his upper and lower jaws, a deep laceration to his upper lip, and a fractured maxilla bone, which resulted in the loss of several teeth. According to a statement shared on social media, Smith is facing a long recovery but remains in good spirits, grateful for the support he has received.
Community Support and Financial Assistance
The wrestling community has rallied around Smith during this challenging time. His brother, Andrew Smith, provided updates on his condition, noting that while he is now conscious and able to communicate, he has a difficult recovery ahead. “Stuart appreciates all the love and support,” Andrew stated. “He loves wrestling, his wrestling family, and all his fans and supporters.”
To assist with mounting medical bills, Smith’s wife, Contessa, has launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised over $175,000 to date. The outpouring of support highlights the impact of the incident on Smith’s life and the affection he commands within the wrestling community.
Condemnation and Ongoing Investigation
The actions of Jackson have been widely condemned, including by the KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy, which described the attack as a “selfish, irresponsible act of violence.” In their official statement, they emphasized that what should have been a planned wrestling spot devolved into an unacceptable display of aggression against Smith. The organization expressed that such behavior is reprehensible and should never occur in a wrestling environment.
Douglas Malo, a fellow wrestler who intervened during the altercation, expressed his shock and concern for Smith’s safety. He recounted the moment on the Scaling Up Podcast, stating, “You watch somebody you care about… It’s all f*****d.” Malo even claimed that Jackson attempted to strike him while he was trying to break up the fight, illustrating the chaotic nature of the incident.
As the investigation continues, no formal charges have been announced against Jackson. Authorities are reviewing footage and testimonies from the event to assess the full scope of the attack.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical risks involved in professional wrestling and the need for safety measures to protect competitors in the ring. The wrestling community is now focused not only on Smith’s recovery but also on ensuring such violence does not occur in the future.