Jacob Fatu WWE SmackDown return took center stage on the latest Friday Night show, as his surprise interference changed the outcome of the main event match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. This pivotal moment not only resulted in a new champion but set the stage for shifting storylines in WWE’s blue brand.
Jacob Fatu’s Interference Alters Main Event Outcome
The main event of WWE SmackDown featured a highly intense Three Stages of Hell match, pitting Cody Rhodes against Drew McIntyre. The climax of the contest saw Jacob Fatu, known as the Samoan Werewolf, make his much-anticipated comeback. His intervention created enough distraction for the Scotsman to take advantage, ultimately escaping the steel cage and securing victory. This marked a significant title change on the show, directly influenced by Fatu’s actions.
Speculation About Unmasking the Mystery Attacker
One reason behind Jacob Fatu’s dramatic WWE SmackDown return may be tied to an unresolved storyline involving his own past. Several months prior, Fatu was taken out backstage by an unknown assailant. Drew McIntyre, sometimes referred to as the Scottish Psychopath, was rumored to be connected to this incident, though he repeatedly denied involvement. During the recent match, Fatu’s actions—first stopping McIntyre from escaping and later turning his attention to Cody Rhodes—added intrigue to the ongoing mystery. The upcoming episodes may see Fatu reveal the true identity of the attacker, whether it be McIntyre, Rhodes, or another WWE figure.
Company Strategy to Protect Cody Rhodes’ Momentum
The decision for Jacob Fatu to intervene appears to support WWE’s creative direction, particularly under the guidance of Triple H. By involving Fatu in the conclusion of the main event, Cody Rhodes did not take a clean loss for his Undisputed WWE Championship. This booking choice maintains Rhodes’ status as a leading figure on SmackDown, even as a new champion is crowned. The use of Fatu’s return in this way allows WWE to orchestrate a high-stakes title change while also preserving the “main event star” perception of Cody Rhodes in the eyes of both viewers and the company’s audience.
Refreshing the SmackDown Main Event Scene
Prior to this episode, many fans and commentators noted a lack of major developments in SmackDown’s weekly narrative. Jacob Fatu’s comeback injects new energy, immediately resulting in both a world title change and the unraveling of fresh storylines. The speculation that Cody Rhodes might now adopt a different persona or even turn heel adds another layer of anticipation. Nick Aldis, as the on-air authority for the brand, now oversees a rejuvenated roster dynamic with Fatu making a renewed impact. The overall reception suggests that Fatu’s return could help WWE SmackDown draw increased interest from both longtime and newer viewers by reintroducing unpredictability and tension to its programming.
Looking ahead, the ongoing developments from Jacob Fatu’s involvement will likely determine the direction of WWE’s main event scene, with fans keenly awaiting further revelations and confrontations among Rhodes, McIntyre, and the Samoan Werewolf.
Jacob fatu Has Returned And Attacks Both Drew Mcintyre And Cody Rhodes#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/vwT4dD6aUn
— Rahuul Bhagchandaani (@Rahuul37) January 9, 2026
