WWE legend Rikishi has criticized the creative direction behind Jacob Fatu‘s WWE booking, pointing to a loss of momentum since his initial strong push on SmackDown. Despite a promising start marked by his United States Championship win last year, Fatu’s prominence has diminished, largely due to inconsistent storylines after his feud with Solo Sikoa.
Rikishi Highlights the Booking Challenges Holding Back Jacob Fatu
Jacob Fatu was widely expected to become a leading star in WWE, especially after his impactful debut. His reign as United States Champion, which followed his babyface turn and betrayal of former ally Solo Sikoa, set the stage for a major moment at SummerSlam where he dropped the title inside a steel cage. However, since then, Fatu has not been regularly featured as a top babyface, a situation evident to the fans who blame the booking for his waning visibility.
Recently, Fatu appeared to regain some creative focus when he confronted Drew McIntyre on SmackDown, sparking interest in a potential feud with the Scottish wrestler. Rikishi shared his thoughts on this development during his Don’t Call It A Comeback podcast, expressing hope that this storyline could restore Fatu’s trajectory. Rikishi said,
Jacob came out — he’s steaming. You know, they got everything behind him. They’re just lighting this kid up on fire. Everything they threw at this kid, he came correct. He’s standing on business, and all of a sudden, poof, like a Houdini move. Well, hey, let’s just hope they do something with it [The Drew McIntyre feud]. You know what I mean? I mean, there’s 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, especially his real ones.
– Rikishi, WWE Legend
Rikishi also expressed frustration over what he perceives as a lack of the right creative programs for Fatu since his June 2024 debut. He believes the former United States Champion has been held back by uninspired booking choices that fail to showcase his full potential in the ring.
I’ve always said this from the beginning: if you book Jacob with the right people, you’re gonna get money out of this kid here. Because the things that he does in the ring, man — I still, to this day, I still don’t think they’ve booked him with the right people and lit gasoline up behind him to really push this thing and make it work. You know what I mean? It’s just been this little tease.
– Rikishi, WWE Legend
Fellow WWE star Cody Rhodes has publicly praised Fatu’s abilities and hinted at the company’s recognition of his potential, but Rikishi feels this promise has yet to translate into a significant push.
We see Jacob’s skills. We see his talent. We see his popularity is catching on fire. Like, you can see the top of the hill, but you ain’t got over yet. You know what I mean? Like, I don’t even think he’s on the porch yet. He should be in the house having some sweet tea by now.
– Rikishi, WWE Legend
While Jacob Fatu has yet to break into the world title picture, a victory against Drew McIntyre could be the catalyst for moving him into that main event tier. Currently, WWE appears stalled on how to position the talented former United States Champion, and a potential move to RAW is being considered as a possible solution to reinvigorate his career.
Original WrestleMania 41 Plans for Jacob Fatu’s Opponent Revealed
Jacob Fatu’s victory over LA Knight at WrestleMania 41 marked a turning point, earning him the United States Championship and triggering his face turn, resulting in a split from Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline faction. Despite the significance of this achievement, it did not lead to sustained main event status, as Fatu settled into the midcard instead.
Insights shared by Billi Bhatti on The Dirty Sheets Backstage podcast revealed that WWE initially planned for Fatu to face Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 41. This matchup was reportedly reserved as a high-profile feud after a year-long build meant to elevate Fatu’s standing by pushing his popularity and in-ring dominance.
Though Fatu was a heel with strong fan support, his character as a relentless monster villain was seen as more effective than his babyface incarnation. WWE teased a feud with Reigns when Roman, known as The Tribal Chief, “injured” Fatu at SummerSlam, but the two have only met in tag team action during the Bad Blood event. The anticipated singles rivalry remains unrealized.
An intense clash against Roman Reigns, particularly if Fatu emerged victorious, could significantly bolster the Samoan Werewolf’s status and career trajectory. However, Fatu’s turn to a heroic persona may have limited his chances to engage with top heels who currently lack the presence to challenge WWE’s leading babyfaces effectively.
The Potential Impact of Fatu’s Future Booking Directions
Jacob Fatu’s WWE booking stands at a crossroads, with staunch advocates like Rikishi and Cody Rhodes urging creative leaders to harness his undeniable talent and star appeal. Rekindling interest through the Drew McIntyre feud could mark the start of a renewed push towards higher profile storylines.
A successful reign in significant feuds would not only revive Fatu’s momentum but also reinforce WWE’s competitive roster depth. Given ongoing conversations about a move to RAW and plans for fresh rivalries, the company appears poised to reconsider how best to maximize Jacob Fatu’s potential within its programming.
How WWE navigates these booking decisions will likely influence Fatu’s position in the wrestling hierarchy and determine whether he fulfills the high expectations set since his arrival as the Samoan Werewolf.
