LAPD investigating alleged assault by Raja Jackson at Sun Valley wrestling event: what injured performers and spectators should know

A violent incident at a KnokX Pro Wrestling show in Sun Valley is now under LAPD investigation after video appeared to show Raja Jackson—the son of former UFC champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson—pummeling independent wrestler Stuart “Syko Stu” Smith while he was already unconscious. TMZ broke the story and reported police responded and took a report. Follow-up coverage confirms LAPD’s inquiry and details the sequence filmed during a live stream. Read TMZ’s report here: “Cops Investigating Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson’s Son… Over Brutal Beatdown”. TMZCBSSports.com

Additional outlets report the confrontation happened August 23, 2025 at KnokX Pro in Los Angeles, where Jackson allegedly entered the ring and delivered dozens of strikes after an earlier beer-can “spot” escalated. The footage circulated widely online and triggered strong reactions across combat-sports media. MMA Mania

TMZ also published the fight video and a second story noting the promotion condemned the conduct as a “selfish, irresponsible act of violence.” Quinton “Rampage” Jackson publicly apologized, saying he was upset by what happened. TMZ+1ABC7 Los Angeles

Some reports say the stream ran on Kick and that the platform banned Jackson after the clip spread. Several outlets also reference hospitalization and injuries to Syko Stu, with family updates warning fans about potential scam fundraisers. Details will evolve as the police investigation proceeds. The Economic Times


Why this matters legally, even in a “scripted” environment

Professional wrestling is choreographed entertainment, but participants and bystanders do not assume the risk of real, non-scripted assaults. When a performer suffers intentional harm outside the agreed match, civil liability can extend beyond the individual assailant to any entity that owed a duty of care to keep performers and spectators reasonably safe, depending on the facts. That can include promoters, venues, and security contractors if negligent planning, supervision, or response contributed to preventable harm.

In Los Angeles, potential civil claims after an attack at an event can include:

  • Assault and battery against the attacker.
  • Negligent hiring, retention, or supervision against organizers if warning signs were ignored.
  • Negligent security / premises liability if reasonable crowd and performer protections were missing.
  • Intentional infliction of emotional distress in egregious cases, subject to proof.

Criminal proceedings and a police investigation can run in parallel with civil claims. The LAPD inquiry is focused on possible crimes. A civil case focuses on medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages for the injured person. CBSSports.com


Evidence that moves these cases

Act fast to preserve time-sensitive proof:

  • Full-length stream recordings and screen captures (including the pre-incident lead-up).
  • Multiple-angle cell-phone videos from fans and staff.
  • Incident reports, 911 calls, and LAPD report number from the responding officers.
  • Venue communications to staff or talent about safety, scripts, or changes.
  • Medical records (ER visit, imaging, dental or facial trauma records) and treating-physician notes.

Coverage indicates the incident was recorded live and that police took a report, which means crucial material exists right now. Counsel can issue preservation letters to the promoter, venue, and platforms to stop deletion or auto-overwriting of video. TMZMMA Mania


What to do when hurt at a busienss

  1. Get medical care and follow through with treatment so injuries are documented.
  2. Write a timeline while memories are fresh. Note where you stood, who you spoke with, and what you saw before and after the attack.
  3. Save everything, including tickets, wristbands, emails from the promoter, and any social media DMs from staff.
  4. Do not post or edit original video before you back it up and share it with counsel.
  5. Request the LAPD incident number and ask how to obtain the report when available. Media reports confirm a police response and ongoing inquiry. CBSSports.com

Our take as a Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley injury firm

This incident reportedly occurred in Sun Valley, minutes from Chatsworth and the wider San Fernando Valley communities we serve. When a show crosses the line from performance to real violence, victims should not have to navigate insurers, investigators, and potential online harassment alone. Our litigation-focused practice moves quickly to secure video, contact witnesses, coordinate expert review, and protect your claim while you focus on recovery.

Start a confidential consultation: Manoukian Law Firm Contact.

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LAPD investigating alleged assault by Raja Jackson at Sun Valley wrestling event: what injured performers and spectators should know