Jacob Fatu continues to be a central figure in WWE SmackDown’s ongoing storyline, after he was mysteriously attacked backstage several months ago. Since that incident, Fatu has retaliated against notable wrestlers like Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, while speculation mounts around the identity of his secret assailant. Recent hints suggest that Sami Zayn, the 41-year-old WWE star, could be revealed as the person behind the unexpected attack on Jacob Fatu.
Signs Pointing to Sami Zayn’s Shift Toward a Villain Role
Sami Zayn has faced a challenging period, especially after failing to capture the World Championship despite earning a number one contender spot. His frustration has become noticeable, highlighted by a surprise backstage confrontation with Cody Rhodes, for which he later apologized. The tension escalated when Jey Uso was also attacked backstage, an event that indirectly allowed Jacob Fatu to secure a place in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match.
Zayn then confronted Fatu, accusing him of being the mysterious attacker linked to the YEET Master. Soon afterward, Zayn offered an apology to Fatu, indicating a complex interaction that could point toward an evolving attitude. These events collectively build the case for Zayn’s gradual transformation into a heel character on SmackDown.
Potential Motivation Behind the Attack on Jacob Fatu
One plausible reason for Sami Zayn targeting Jacob Fatu is his desire to advance toward a World Championship opportunity. Jacob Fatu was assaulted backstage shortly before his match against Drew McIntyre, which was intended to determine the number one contender. This timing suggests that jealousy or rivalry could have driven Zayn to weaken Fatu’s chances.
If a member of the Bloodline such as Fatu claims the World Championship before Zayn does, it could create significant frustration for Zayn, further fueling the tension between the two wrestlers.
How This Plot Fits into WrestleMania 42’s Main Event Landscape
Currently, Jacob Fatu does not have a confirmed opponent for WrestleMania 42. WWE has hinted at involving him in the Undisputed WWE Title scene, but no official announcements have been made. A storyline featuring Sami Zayn as Fatu’s assailant could provide a compelling rivalry for the event known as the Showcase of the Immortals.
This angle would also allow WWE to officially turn Sami Zayn into a villainous character on SmackDown, adding new energy to the brand’s narratives. Additionally, WWE reportedly plans to schedule a match between Zayn and Trick Williams during WrestleMania, making Zayn’s role in this mystery storyline even more pivotal.
The direction of Sami Zayn’s character and his involvement in the secret attack on Jacob Fatu are expected to become clearer in the upcoming episode of Friday Night SmackDown.
Sami Zayn: “You should be ashamed of yourself. You’re the golden boy. You got to finish your story. You were chosen. Nobody chose me.”
Cody Rhodes: “It’s not me, it’s not the system. The only thing in your way is you.”
CODY RHODES & SAMI ZAYN ARGUING BACKSTAGE 👀🔥#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/N2SE3ZMlAQ
— EliteRockerz 𝕏 (@EliteClubS0B) February 21, 2026
