Wrestler Stuart Smith has been released from hospital and is recovering after sustaining injuries during a match against Raja Jackson, son of former UFC champion Rampage Jackson, at a KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy event on August 23. Smith revealed the extent of his injuries - a fractured orbital bone, a concussion, and a broken nose – in a social media post.
The incident, initially intended as a scripted wrestling ”work,” escalated into a physical altercation, prompting apologies from both Jackson’s father and the event organizer. The incident raises concerns about safety protocols within independent wrestling and has led to Jackson being widely condemned for his actions. Smith’s recovery and potential future in wrestling remain uncertain, while KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy faces scrutiny over the event’s handling and safety measures.
Rampage Jackson addressed the situation on X (formerly Twitter) on August 24,stating,”I don’t condone my son’s actions AT ALL!” He added that Raja Jackson had recently suffered a concussion during sparring and “had no business doing anything remotely close to physical contact.” Jackson expressed deep concern for both his son’s health and Smith’s well-being, apologizing “on his (Raja Jackson’s) behalf and to KICK for the situation.”
According to a statement from KnokX, the match began as a planned wrestling spot but “turned into a selfish, irresponsible act of violence against Mr. Smith.” The organizer described the act as “reprehensible” and stated that such an incident had never occurred in the academy’s 17 years of operation, offering an apology to patrons and fans.
Smith is currently focusing on his recovery and has not yet indicated when he might return to wrestling.
