The brother of the wrestler attacked by Raja Jackson has spoken out to give a devastating update on his health as police begin their investigation into the brutal beating.
Audiences in person and online were left shocked last week at the KnokX Pro Wrestling event in Los Angeles when Jackson, the son of legendary UFC fighter Quinton, entered the ring and launched a savage attack on Stuart Smith, better known as Syko Stu.
The two had clashed before the event after Smith threw a beer can at the 25-year-old's head and despite them shaking hands and saying sorry, Jackson was told to give him 'his receipt' in the ring, which is wrestling speak for a real fight.
After flipping Smith over his head, Jackson manages to land a succession of powerful punches on the unconscious Smith before he is finally stopped by some of the other wrestlers at the event, although a shocking video revealed the strange thing some of the performers did next.
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The promotion company has since spoken out to condemn Jackson's actions but given the horrific injuries sustained by Smith, which saw him choking on his own blood and teeth, this has now become a police matter.
Smith's brother Andrew has taken to Facebook to give an update on his brother's health, suggesting that it could be a long road to recovery for the former US army veteran.
He wrote: "Stuart is resting since he sustained severe injures to his head. He is currently conscious and able to talk but will have a difficult recovery ahead.
"With all the media and social media attention it’s been hard to get back to everyone. Stuart Smith appreciates all the love and support. He loves wrestling, his wrestling family, and all his fans and supporters. Wrestling has been a huge part of his life and he lives to put on a performance.
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"He’s also just a regular guy with a life and family outside the ring. His wife Contessa has currently set up a go fund me for those wishing to donate. We appreciate all the support during this difficult time, Thank you."
The GoFundMe page has already raised well over $56k (about £41,000), with Stuart's wife providing more details about how his life could set to be permanently affected following the incident.
She wrote: "I’m reaching out to get support for Stuart Smith better known as SykoStu. On August 23rd he was involved in an unscripted assault that has left him in the hospital with intense recovery needed to regain good health.
"Stuart Smith 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."
Topics: GoFundMe
James Moorhouse