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Rikishi Critiques WWE's Handling of Jacob Fatu's Return
WWE Hall of Famer felt the creative direction lacked originality.
Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:15pm
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Rikishi, the WWE Hall of Famer, expressed some criticism over the way his nephew Jacob Fatu's recent return to WWE was booked. While Rikishi was happy to see Fatu back in the company, he felt the creative direction of having him appear in a black hoodie lacked originality. Rikishi wondered if all wrestlers are now meant to return in similar fashion, arguing that a Samoan wrestler like Fatu doesn't need to be 'covered up.' However, Rikishi did praise Fatu's physical condition, noting this was the best shape he's ever seen him in.
Why it matters
Rikishi's comments provide an insider's perspective on how WWE handles the returns of high-profile wrestlers. As a WWE Hall of Famer and relative of Fatu, Rikishi's critique highlights the importance of creative storytelling and authenticity when reintroducing established talents to the audience.
The details
Jacob Fatu, also known as the 'Samoan Werewolf,' made a surprise return to WWE, costing Cody Rhodes his match against Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship. While Rikishi was pleased to see his nephew back in WWE, he felt the creative direction of having Fatu appear in a black hoodie lacked originality. Rikishi wondered if all wrestlers are now meant to return in similar fashion, arguing that a Samoan wrestler like Fatu doesn't need to be 'covered up' and should be allowed to embrace his Samoan heritage. However, Rikishi did praise Fatu's physical condition, noting this was the best shape he's ever seen him in.
- Jacob Fatu made his surprise return to WWE on January 29, 2026.
The players
Rikishi Fatu
A WWE Hall of Famer and the uncle of Jacob Fatu.
Jacob Fatu
Also known as the 'Samoan Werewolf,' Jacob Fatu is a wrestler who recently made a surprise return to WWE.
What they’re saying
“[Does] it take that much for creative to like, you know, I don't know, 'Have him make an appearance with a hoodie.' Black hoodie... 'Make 'em all – black hoodies. Come through, and just, whatever,'”
— Rikishi Fatu, WWE Hall of Famer
“You really don't need to cover up a Samoan. Just let a Samoan be a Samoan.”
— Rikishi Fatu, WWE Hall of Famer
“Damn, so, Jacob went all the way to Berlin? Wouldn't it been cheaper just to go right here to Mobile, Alabama?”
— Rikishi Fatu, WWE Hall of Famer
“You know, welcome back, Jacob. He looks fantastic. I mean, you know, he just looks refreshed like...This is probably the best shape I've ever seen Jacob look like.”
— Rikishi Fatu, WWE Hall of Famer
What’s next
There are no clear next steps mentioned in the article.
The takeaway
Rikishi's critique of the creative direction behind Jacob Fatu's WWE return highlights the importance of authenticity and originality when reintroducing established talents to the audience. While Rikishi was pleased to see his nephew back, he felt the decision to have Fatu appear in a generic black hoodie lacked the flair and uniqueness that should accompany a high-profile wrestler's comeback.
