The Raja Jackson KICK incident Saturday involving a brutal demonstration on wrestler Stuart Smith has taken a dark turn, as the combat sports community tries to comprehend what exactly transpired regarding its severity and the bad light it puts on the legacy of Jackson’s father, Quinton, a retired UFC star and ex-UFC champion from May 2007-July 2008.
Raja Jackson, 25, brutalized Smith as if it were an MMA fight instead of faking like he was going to punch him, as the script likely suggested. Raja Jackson’s actions resulted in serious injuries to Smith, and given Smith’s critical condition, he remains lucky to be alive.
According to USA Today, however, Jackson’s brutalization was so severe that Smith’s current condition couldn’t be further from normal.
“Smith was awake and talking on Aug. 24 but had broken bones in his face and lost a lot of teeth,” wrestler Douglas Malo said.
READ MORE: Rampage Jackson breaks silence as son explains motive for violent assault
Apr 24, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Rampage Jackson stands on the scale during weigh-ins for UFC 186 at Metropolis. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-Imagn Images
/ Jean-Yves Ahern-Imagn Images
KnoxK Pro Wrestling has since apologized in a Facebook post that the incident even happened.
“What was supposed to be a planned and agreed upon wrestling spot, turned into a selfish, irresponsible act of violence against Mr. Smith,” the statement read Sunday. “This egregious act is reprehensible and never should have occurred.”
Smith’s brother, Andrew, also took to Facebook to provide an update, while Quinton Jackson was deeply apologetic in a separate message on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter).
“Thank you everyone for your prayers, concerns, and kind words for my brother Stu,” Andrew Smith wrote. “Please continue to keep him in your prayers. He’s currently stable but in critical care. At this time we’re focused on his recovery and appreciate all the support.”
Meanwhile, Quinton Jackson wrote that while he’ll have to confront his son at a later time, it’s Smith he’s the most concerned about.
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
Sep 29, 2018; San Jose, CA, USA; Rampage Jackson defeats Wanderlei Silva during Bellator 206 at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-Imagn Images / Stan Szeto-Imagn Images
“I don’t condone my son’s actions AT ALL,” part of Jackson’s statement read. “He suffered a concussion from sparring only days ago and had no business doing anything remotely close to physical contact. “
Quinton Jackson added he wants the best possible outcome in light of his son’s horrific judgement.
“As a father, [I am] deeply concerned with his health AND the well being of Mr. Smith,” Quinton Jackson continued. “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.”
TMZ reported Sunday that the Los Angeles Police Department was investigating the incident, but no action regarding an arrest has been taken at press time.
Stuart Smith’s brother — the wrestler assaulted by Raja Jackson — said he’s “conscious and does have some recollection of events from the day of the attack” as he continues to recover in the hospital.
TMZ previously reported LAPD is investigating but I’ve seen no charges yet. pic.twitter.com/gZB7cpHvyn
— Damon Martin (@DamonMartin) August 25, 2025
This is a developing story.
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• Rampage Jackson breaks silence as son explains motive for violent assault
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