Jacob Fatu, known as the Samoan Werewolf, was removed from WWE programming on October 17, 2025, after a staged backstage attack. Behind the scenes, Fatu had to undergo significant dental surgery, explaining his absence from television. He made a surprising comeback on SmackDown on January 9, 2026, appearing during the Undisputed WWE Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. This marked his first appearance since the surgery, signaling his readiness to return to in-ring action.
Fatu Shares Details of His Recovery and Time Off
In a recent interview on Busted Open Radio, Jacob Fatu opened up about the physical and mental challenges he faced during his recovery. He emphasized that his time away from WWE was partly to regroup personally and to focus on his health and family. Fatu revealed the extent of his dental procedure, which involved extracting 11 teeth, a demanding process that kept him off the road during the holiday season.
“You know, that time I took off. I really needed to regroup in my personal life, mentally and physically. You know, let’s keep it real,” he said. – Jacob Fatu, WWE Star
“You know, when I was off, my kids were off around, it was around the holidays. Got out October, November, December, New Year’s. It was being home with them…It was being home on the couch. I mean 11 teeth. I was supposed to get 12 teeth. I got 11 teeth pulled out in the back. So got 11 teeth,” he added. – Jacob Fatu, WWE Star
Focused on Drew McIntyre Amid WWE Rivalries
Since returning, Fatu has targeted Drew McIntyre, attacking the Scottish Psychopath during the intense Three Stages of Hell Undisputed WWE Championship match. Although McIntyre retained the title, tension between the two continued. McIntyre retaliated by assaulting Fatu and Cody Rhodes during Saturday Night’s Main Event and later disrupted Fatu’s opportunity to enter the Elimination Chamber match.
On the latest episode of SmackDown, Jacob Fatu interrupted a promo by Cody Rhodes, declaring that his feud is specifically with McIntyre. WWE General Manager Nick Aldis stepped in to remove Fatu from the ring but assured him that he will get a future chance to face McIntyre, even though it will require patience.
The Significance of Fatu’s Comeback and What Lies Ahead
Jacob Fatu’s return marks a pivotal moment for the WWE roster, especially as he sets his sights on Drew McIntyre and the Undisputed WWE Championship. His ability to bounce back from extensive surgery and immediately re-enter high-profile storylines demonstrates resilience. The renewed rivalry with McIntyre promises to bring heightened drama and intensity in upcoming events. Fans can anticipate this renewed competition shaping the WWE landscape leading up to major pay-per-views, including WrestleMania.
