WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry has added his voice to the fallout from the violent clash involving Raja Jackson and veteran wrestler Syko Stu.
Henry believes Stu, whose real name is Stuart Smith, deserves part of the blame for the ugly incident that unfolded at a KnokX Pro event in Los Angeles. His comments arrive as fresh footage shows Stu apologising several times to Jackson before the fight escalated.
Henry points finger at Syko Stu
Speaking to TMZ Sports, MArk Henry said the veteran should never have provoked Raja Jackson, who is so new to the wrestling world.
He referenced the moment Stu struck Jackson with a beer can just before the show began, which sparked the confrontation.
“You’ve got to be careful, one, who you’re messing with,” Henry said. “And, two, what kind of example are you as a veteran for inciting a riot with a kid.”
He added that Stu “bit off more than he could chew” once Jackson responded with force inside the ring.
Henry still criticised Raja for going too far after the bell, saying the younger fighter needed to respect the business and keep his emotions in check.
Video shows Stu apologising
Footage has since emerged that complicates the narrative. In the clips, Stu can be seen apologising three times to Jackson after their confrontation.
There’s been some suggestion that Stu thought Raja was a wrestler new to the promotion, rather than someone completely outside the business, and tried to defuse things.
Despite those apologies, the angle ended badly. Raja entered the ring for a planned “payback” spot but unleashed a violent response, flooring Stu with a knockout blow before raining down punches.
Rampage Jackson adds context
Raja’s father, MMA legend Rampage Jackson, recently weighed in. He revealed his son recently suffered a concussion and suggested the 25-year-old did not belong in such a physical environment.
Those comments added a further layer of concern around Raja’s role in the promotion.
Police confirmed a report has been filed and detectives are investigating. Stu’s brother later said the wrestler is conscious and resting after hospital treatment in the critical care unit.
READ NEXT: WATCH: DANIIL MEDVEDEV RAGES AT UMPIRE AS US OPEN DESCENDS INTO CHAOS
