Jacob Fatu, the Samoan Werewolf, began his WWE journey in mid-2024 with a powerful momentum, quickly capturing both tag team gold and the United States Championship. However, following his steel cage bout against Solo Sikoa at SummerSlam in August, WWE appears to have slowed his push significantly. This has drawn criticism from WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi, who openly questioned the company’s handling of Jacob Fatu’s momentum.
Rikishi Voices Concerns Over WWE’s Handling of Jacob Fatu’s Career
On the latest Off The Top Podcast, Rikishi shared his frustration with the way WWE is currently booking Jacob Fatu, observing that the wrestler’s rise was abruptly halted.
“Jacob comes out, he’s steaming. They got everything behind him. They just lighting this kid up on fire. Everything they threw at this kid, he came correct, he stand on business, and all of a sudden, poof, like a Houdini move,”
Rikishi remarked, highlighting the sudden stall in Fatu’s push.
A Call for Proper Matchmaking to Maximize Jacob Fatu’s Potential
Rikishi emphasized that Fatu’s talent is undeniable and transcends any opponent he faces in the ring.
“No doubt Jacob can work with anybody, absolutely anybody. If it’s done right again, this kid here has got talent. We all know what type of talent he has… You guys really know this kid here, as far as the talent that he has in and out the squared circle,”
Rikishi stated. He strongly believes that Fatu has not yet been paired with the right opponents or pushed effectively to elevate his profile within WWE.
According to Rikishi, the missed opportunities stem from inadequate booking decisions.
“I’ve always said this from the beginning, that if you book Jacob with the right people, you gonna get money out this kid here. Because the thing that he does in the ring, man, I still, to this day, I still don’t think that they have booked him with the right people and lit gasoline up behind him to really push this thing to make it work,”
he added.
Rikishi Highlights the Untapped Potential in Jacob Fatu’s WWE Journey
Rikishi elaborated on the glimpses of talent WWE fans have seen so far, expressing frustration that Fatu’s full capabilities remain unfulfilled.
“It’s just been just little teases. We see Jacob’s skills, we see his talent, we see his popularity is just catching on fire. But there’s still, there’s still that… you can see the top of the hill, but you ain’t got over yet. I don’t even think he on the porch yet. He should be in the house having some sweet tea by now,”
Rikishi noted, comparing Fatu’s progress to someone nearing major success but not quite reaching it.
This metaphor captures the sentiment that Fatu is close to breaking through but needs stronger support and booking to achieve sustained success. With his physical presence and in-ring ability, many believe that Jacob Fatu is poised for a significant role, yet WWE’s current plans have raised concerns over wasted potential.
Implications of the Current Booking Trend and What’s Ahead
The criticism from a respected figure like Rikishi puts a spotlight on WWE’s creative choices involving Jacob Fatu. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the promotion reconsiders his trajectory following SummerSlam’s cage match. Proper matchmaking and storytelling could be critical in reigniting Fatu’s push and fulfilling the promise of his early accomplishments.
As a performer known for his intensity and skill, Jacob Fatu’s WWE booking will likely influence his long-term status within the company. If WWE decides to back him more decisively, it could lead to renewed excitement among the audience and increased opportunities for the Samoan Werewolf to cement his legacy.
