Jacob Fatu Expected to Return to WWE SmackDown Soon

Professional wrestling star Jacob Fatu is expected to return to WWE's SmackDown brand within the next few weeks, according to multiple sources familiar with the company's internal discussions. The former United States Champion has been sidelined since mid-October while recovering from a dental procedure, but backstage reports from WWE's Survivor Series WarGames event indicate his recovery is nearly complete, with no official return date yet confirmed.

Fatu's absence began on the October 17 episode of SmackDown, when a scripted backstage attack storyline removed him from television. In the segment, he was depicted as being crushed beneath a toppled production structure, with teeth scattered across the concrete floor. Officials designed the angle to account for his real-life medical needs, allowing time for the procedure without disrupting his momentum on the blue brand.

Prior to the hiatus, Fatu had emerged as a prominent figure on SmackDown. He captured the United States Championship by defeating LA Knight at WrestleMania in April, marking his first singles title in WWE. Following that victory, he became entangled in a intense rivalry with the faction known as MFT, led by Solo...