Jacob Fatu RETURNS And Attacks Cody Rhodes At WWE SmackDown!

In a shocking turn of events on the first WWE SmackDown of 2026, Jacob Fatu made his long-awaited return to the ring. The Samoan Werewolf, absent since October 2025 due to a mysterious backstage assault, stormed the arena during the main event.

Fans erupted as Fatu targeted Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, delivering a brutal attack that left the crowd in disbelief.

Fatu’s absence stemmed from a vicious incident on the October 17, 2025, episode of SmackDown. He was found unconscious backstage, bleeding from the mouth with teeth scattered around him. Initially scheduled to face Drew McIntyre for a title shot, the attack sidelined him for dental surgery.

Speculation ran rampant about the assailant’s identity, with fingers pointing at McIntyre or even Rhodes himself.

Reports from wrestling insiders like PWInsider and BodySlam.net indicated Fatu was ahead of schedule in his recovery. By late December 2025, rumors swirled of an early 2026 comeback. WWE quietly removed Fatu from promotional materials, fueling theories of a surprise return.

Fans on social media platforms, including X, debated his role in upcoming storylines, especially the Royal Rumble.

The January 2, 2026, SmackDown episode built tension throughout the night. Cody Rhodes defended his Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre in a grueling 3 Stages of Hell Match. The bout featured intense action, with both superstars trading blows in a cage, followed by a street fight.

As Rhodes seemed poised for victory, the lights dimmed, signaling Fatu’s dramatic entrance.

Emerging from the crowd, Fatu leaped over the barricade with ferocious agility. He speared Rhodes mid-celebration, sending the champion crashing to the mat. The attack escalated as Fatu unleashed a series of Samoan Spikes and superkicks.

McIntyre, exhausted from the match, attempted to intervene but was quickly overpowered by the returning star’s raw power.

The Bloodline’s involvement added layers to the chaos. Solo Sikoa, Fatu’s cousin, watched from ringside with a smirk, hinting at a reformed alliance. Since Fatu’s debut in June 2024, where he initially attacked Rhodes, Orton, and Owens to aid Sikoa, the faction has evolved.

His return suggests a renewed push for Bloodline dominance in WWE.

Crowd reactions were mixed but electric. Chants of “Werewolf” echoed through the arena as fans cheered Fatu’s intensity. Others booed the interference, loyal to Rhodes’ American Nightmare persona. Social media exploded post-show, with #FatuReturns trending worldwide. Users praised the surprise element, comparing it to classic WWE twists.

WWE officials scrambled to restore order. Referees and security separated the wrestlers, but not before Fatu grabbed a microphone. “The hunt is back on, Cody! Your title, your legacy—it’s all mine now!” he roared, referencing his pre-injury ambitions for the championship.

This declaration sets up potential feuds heading into WrestleMania season.

Analysts speculate this attack ties into the mystery assailant storyline. Many believed McIntyre orchestrated the October assault to eliminate competition. However, Fatu’s focus on Rhodes fuels theories that the champion himself was involved, perhaps to protect his reign.

This could lead to a heel turn for Rhodes, aligning with fan observations of his increasingly aggressive demeanor.

Fatu’s charisma has been a highlight since his WWE arrival. Dubbed the Samoan Werewolf for his explosive style, he quickly became a fan favorite. His matches showcased athleticism and intensity, earning comparisons to legends like Umaga.

Despite a brief cooling-off period before his injury, his return promises a major push in 2026.

Rhodes, recovering backstage, addressed the media briefly. “Jacob Fatu thinks he can just waltz back and take what’s mine? This isn’t over—it’s just beginning,” he stated, clutching his ribs.

The champion’s resilience has defined his run, but this ambush tests his limits ahead of the Royal Rumble on January 25, 2026.

Other returns on the same SmackDown amplified the excitement. Randy Orton and Sami Zayn also made comebacks, as reported by sources like Self Made Sessions. Orton assisted Rhodes momentarily, hinting at alliances shifting. Zayn’s involvement with the Bloodline adds intrigue to the faction’s dynamics.

The episode’s ratings are expected to soar, reflecting WWE’s strong start to the year. Viewership has climbed with compelling storylines, and Fatu’s return capitalizes on that momentum. Triple H’s creative direction continues to blend nostalgia with fresh talent, keeping fans engaged.

Looking ahead, Fatu’s attack positions him as a top contender. A potential Fatal 4-Way at Royal Rumble, including Rhodes, McIntyre, Orton, and Fatu, has been floated by fans. This would elevate the event, building toward WrestleMania 42, rumored to feature Rhodes versus Roman Reigns.

Fatu’s family legacy in wrestling enhances his appeal. As part of the Anoa’i dynasty, he carries the weight of icons like The Rock and Reigns. His independent circuit success, including MLW championships, prepared him for WWE’s spotlight. This return marks a pivotal chapter in his career.

Critics note that WWE must avoid overcomplicating the Bloodline saga. With multiple members and alliances, clarity is key. Fatu’s focused aggression could streamline the narrative, providing high-stakes matches that thrill audiences.

In interviews from late 2025, Fatu expressed eagerness to return. “I’m healing faster than expected. The wolf is hungry,” he told reporters. His physical conditioning, evident in the attack, confirms he’s ready for prime time.

Rhodes’ championship reign, now over 600 days, faces its toughest challenge yet. Defending against powerhouses like Fatu requires strategy and endurance. Fans anticipate promos and build-up that heighten the rivalry.

The SmackDown aftermath saw increased security measures. WWE announced investigations into the interference, though it’s likely storyline-driven. This keeps viewers tuned in for next week’s developments.

Ultimately, Jacob Fatu’s return and attack on Cody Rhodes reinvigorates WWE programming. It blends surprise, athleticism, and drama, ensuring 2026 starts with a bang. As the road to WrestleMania unfolds, all eyes are on the Samoan Werewolf and his hunt for gold.