Former WWE United States Champion Jacob Fatu recently revealed that his time away from WWE television was about resetting his life, both mentally and physically. He returned to WWE on the January 9th, 2026, edition of Friday Night SmackDown, costing Cody Rhodes the Undisputed WWE Title in his match against Drew McIntyre.
Speaking with Busted Open Radio, Fatu addressed his absence following the October 2025 segment with Drew McIntyre that led to dental surgery. He had 11 teeth pulled due to the injury. Fatu explained that the timing of his absence allowed him to reconnect with his family.
Fatu on Family Time
Fatu explained the importance of spending time with his family during his time away from wrestling and how it has impacted him.
Jacob Fatu said:
\"But I believe it was God’s timing. I missed out on a lot of opportunities, but when I came back, I had to double back. When I was off, it was around the holidays — October, November, December, New Year’s. My kids were home, and I was home with them. That was something I had lost touch with. I’m getting goosebumps talking about it. If y’all know me, you know I’ve got kids. And this ain’t a work. I keep saying that because y’all are going to feel it. You’re going to feel Jacob Fatu in full motion.\
Fatu also recalled his uncle Rikishi\'s advice about how quickly things can change when you’re out of sight and out of mind. He realized the phone stops ringing when you\'re out of sight and out of mind.
Jacob Fatu recently competed in a Men\'s Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match but failed to pick up the win.
