Jacob Fatu recently disclosed that he underwent a significant dental procedure, having 11 teeth extracted during his break from WWE television. This revelation came after his October 2025 absence from SmackDown, which followed an unexplained backstage attack storyline prompting his temporary removal from programming. The dental treatment was the real reason behind his hiatus.
Details of the Extensive Teeth Removal Procedure
During an appearance on the Busted Open Radio podcast, Fatu shared that doctors originally planned to remove 12 teeth from the back of his mouth, but ultimately extracted 11. He stated,
“11 teeth. I was supposed to get 12 teeth. I got 11 teeth pulled out in the back. So got 11 teeth.”
This procedure had been postponed for some time, and the break from in-ring action provided the opportunity for Fatu to address the issue.
Uncle Rikishi’s Advice and Impact on Fatu’s Career
Fatu reflected on guidance from his uncle, WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi, who warned him about the fast pace of the wrestling industry and how quickly opportunities can fade when a performer is off television. During his recovery period, Fatu noticed a decline in requests for favors from distant relatives, allowing him to focus on personal growth. He embraced this downtime, adopting a more rigorous fitness routine resulting in notable weight loss.
Return to WWE with a Transformed Appearance
Since his return, Jacob Fatu has debuted a changed look, confidently appearing without a shirt to highlight his leaner and more toned physique. This physical transformation underscores his commitment to improving both his health and performance ring presence.
Significance of Fatu’s Recovery and Future Prospects
Fatu’s candid explanation about his dental surgery sheds light on the personal challenges wrestlers face behind the scenes. Addressing such a serious health matter during a forced time off reflects his determination to maintain longevity in his career. Fans and colleagues now anticipate how this renewed focus and physical change will influence his upcoming matches and storylines in WWE.
