An update has emerged regarding the nature of Jacob Fatu’s recent injury, suggesting his absence might not be as long-term as initially reported. Fatu was written off WWE television during the October 17 episode of Friday Night SmackDown via an injury angle. While earlier reports indicated a potentially lengthy layoff due to a non-wrestling-related issue, a new report from PWInsider.com offers a different perspective based on backstage talk.
Dental Procedure Reported as Cause
According to PWInsider.com, the word circulating among talents backstage at SmackDown was that Fatu’s absence is due to recovery from a dental procedure. “For those who have asked, the word among talents at Smackdown last night was that Jacob Fatu was recovering from a dental procedure and was not yet cleared to wrestle,” the report states.
The report adds that the hope backstage is for Fatu to return relatively soon. “The hope is he will be back very soon,” PWInsider noted. However, it was added, “We have not independently verified the dental story but numerous talents were stating that was the issue after Smackdown”.
SmackDown Injury Angle Details
On the October 17 SmackDown, Fatu was scheduled to face Drew McIntyre in the main event to determine the #1 contender for Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Championship. Earlier in the show, Fatu had a backstage interaction with Rhodes, promising to defeat McIntyre. However, just before the main event, Fatu was shown backstage, pinned under production equipment and bleeding from the mouth, unable to compete. This angle wrote him out of the storyline. Cody Rhodes replaced Fatu in the main event match against McIntyre.
Fatu’s Standing in WWE
Despite the setback, the PWInsider report highlights Fatu’s positive standing within the company. “He is very much liked within the company and it’s felt he’s overdue for a big push,” the report added.
What happened to Jacob Fatu?! 😱 pic.twitter.com/WX6aY82QIh
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2025
