The brother of independent wrestler Stuart Smith, known to fans as Syko Stu, has shared a sobering update on his condition after a shocking in-ring assault that has now prompted a police investigation.
The incident unfolded last week at a KnokX Pro Wrestling event in Los Angeles, where 25-year-old Raja Jackson (son of UFC legend Quinton “Rampage” Jackson) suddenly launched into a violent attack during what was expected to be a performance. Spectators in the arena and watching online were left stunned as events spiraled far beyond the boundaries of professional wrestling theatrics.
Smith’s brother, Andrew, revealed in a Facebook post that the 39-year-old Army veteran remains hospitalized with serious head injuries. “Stuart is resting since he sustained severe injuries to his head. He is currently conscious and able to talk but will have a difficult recovery ahead,” Andrew wrote, via Men's Journal.
He thanked fans for their overwhelming support, adding: “Stuart loves wrestling, his wrestling family, and all his fans. He’s also just a regular guy with a life and family outside the ring. His wife Contessa has currently set up a GoFundMe for those wishing to donate.”
That fundraising page has already surpassed $70,000, with Smith’s wife explaining how the assault may leave lasting effects. “On August 23rd he was involved in an unscripted assault that has left him in the hospital with intense recovery needed,” she wrote. “Stuart is a U.S. Army veteran who used wrestling as an outlet to deal with his PTSD. This incident has not only caused major physical harm, but will also disrupt his career inside the ring and outside of it.”
Police confirmed the matter is now being treated as an assault case. Witnesses reported that the altercation stemmed from a prior dispute in which Smith had thrown a beer can at Jackson. Although the two men had appeared to reconcile, tensions resurfaced when Jackson was reportedly encouraged to give Smith “a receipt”; wrestling slang for a real-life strike or payback.
Video of the attack showed Jackson flipping Smith over his shoulder and delivering a series of hard punches before other wrestlers intervened. Smith suffered severe facial and head trauma, at one point choking on his own blood and teeth, according to witnesses.
KnokX Pro Wrestling has since condemned Jackson’s actions, stressing that what occurred was not part of the planned show.