Jacob Fatu, known as the ‘Samoan Werewolf,’ made a dramatic return to WWE by interfering in the match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship. His unexpected appearance has generated buzz among wrestling fans, with his uncle, WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi Fatu, expressing both pride and some reservations about how WWE handled the moment.
Rikishi Questions WWE’s Creative Choices
During his Off The Top podcast, Rikishi shared a critical observation about the presentation of Jacob’s return. He wondered if WWE’s creative team has developed a habit of staging wrestler returns with them wearing black hoodies. Rikishi remarked,
[Does] it take that much for creative to like, you know, I don’t know, ‘Have him make an appearance with a hoodie.’ Black hoodie… ‘Make ’em all – black hoodies. Come through, and just, whatever,’
emphasizing his view that players are often overly concealed. He added,
You really don’t need to cover up a Samoan. Just let a Samoan be a Samoan.
Praise Mixed with Practical Suggestions
Rikishi voiced his mixed feelings by noting that the hoodie trend seems repetitive, but he praised Jacob’s overall return segment. He jokingly questioned the logistics behind filming the scene in Berlin, suggesting it might have been more practical to shoot closer to home in Mobile, Alabama.
Damn, so, Jacob went all the way to Berlin? Wouldn’t it been cheaper just to go right here to Mobile, Alabama?
He continued,
Like, there is cameras and stuff, we could have filmed it.
Commending Jacob Fatu’s Physical Condition
Despite his creative doubts, Rikishi congratulated Jacob on his impressive physical condition following his comeback. He remarked that Fatu looked incredibly refreshed and in the best shape he had seen him.
He looks fantastic. I mean, you know, he just looks refreshed like…This is probably the best shape I’ve ever seen Jacob look like.
Rikishi’s encouragement underscores his hopeful outlook for his nephew’s renewed WWE journey.
Looking Ahead for Jacob Fatu and WWE
Jacob Fatu’s WWE return is significant not only for its impact on ongoing storylines but also for reconnecting him with a broader audience. While Rikishi’s critique highlights opportunities for creative evolution within WWE’s presentation style, his praise signals confidence in Fatu’s potential. Fans and insiders alike will likely watch closely to see how Jacob’s role in WWE develops, especially after such a notable comeback.
