Former United States champion Jacob Fatu may face a lengthy absence from the ring due to an injury. Reports from BodySlam.net, as cited by Steve Carrier of Ringside News, reveal that Fatu is grappling with a “non-wrestling-related injury,” which could sideline him until “well into 2026.”
The injury comes on the heels of a turbulent period for Fatu, who recently lost the U.S. title in a steel cage match against his cousin, Solo Sikoa, at SummerSlam in August. Following that match, he played a significant role in helping Sami Zayn secure the championship from Sikoa but was absent from WWE programming for several weeks afterward.
Fatu made his return on the September 26 episode of SmackDown, where he interfered in a bout involving Drew McIntyre, gaining the upper hand in a brawl. However, just two weeks later, McIntyre retaliated with a backstage attack on Fatu, leading SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis to schedule a match between the two for the upcoming episode.
Unfortunately, this match now seems uncertain as Fatu’s injury has put his participation in question. It remains unclear how WWE will address this situation in the Friday night show.
A member of the renowned Anoa’i wrestling family, Fatu debuted in WWE in June 2024, joining The Bloodline faction under Sikoa’s leadership. After months of loyalty, Fatu became disillusioned with Sikoa, culminating in a pivotal moment at Money in the Bank in June 2025, where he turned on Sikoa and cost him the contract. At that time, Fatu was the reigning U.S. champion, having captured the title from LA Knight at WrestleMania 41. However, he dropped the championship back to Sikoa at Night of Champions in June, aided by interference from Tonga Loa and Talla Tonga.
Before his injury, it appeared that Fatu was moving on from his storyline with Sikoa, having expressed interest in pursuing the WWE Championship during a brief encounter with Cody Rhodes. This latest setback is undoubtedly disappointing for fans eager to see Fatu in action, but his potential return in the future could bring renewed excitement to WWE storylines.