WWE's Jacob Fatu Finds Success After Jail Time

The wrestler credits watching his cousins on TV while incarcerated as inspiration to turn his life around.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:52pm

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Jacob Fatu, a 33-year-old WWE wrestler, has opened up about how his criminal past and time in jail at age 18 for armed robbery in California ultimately inspired his success. Fatu, the son of wrestler Sam Fatu (The Tonga Kid), says watching his cousins Jimmy and Jey Uso on TV while incarcerated at the Sacramento County Jail was a catalyst for setting his life on a different path.

Why it matters

Fatu's story highlights how even those who make poor choices in their youth can find redemption and achieve success, especially when they have positive role models and support systems to help guide them. His journey also underscores the potential impact media and entertainment can have on incarcerated individuals looking to change their lives.

The details

After his arrest for armed robbery at 18, Fatu ended up serving time at the Sacramento County Jail. While incarcerated, he credits watching his cousins Jimmy and Jey Uso, who are part of the legendary WWE tag team The Usos, on television as inspiration to get his life back on track.

  • Fatu was arrested for armed robbery at age 18 in California.
  • Fatu served time at the Sacramento County Jail.

The players

Jacob Fatu

A 33-year-old WWE wrestler who credits his criminal past and time in jail as inspiration to turn his life around.

Sam Fatu

Jacob Fatu's father, also known as The Tonga Kid, is a former professional wrestler.

Jimmy Uso

One of Jacob Fatu's cousins, who is part of the legendary WWE tag team The Usos.

Jey Uso

One of Jacob Fatu's cousins, who is part of the legendary WWE tag team The Usos.

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What they’re saying

“Watching my cousins on TV while I was in jail showed me what was possible if I got my life right.”

— Jacob Fatu

The takeaway

Fatu's story is a powerful example of how even those who make poor choices in their youth can find redemption and achieve success, especially when they have positive role models and support systems to help guide them on a better path.