As noted before, Jacob Fatu recently suffered a non-wrestling-related injury that could potentially keep him out of action for “well into 2026.” The status of Fatu’s scheduled match against Drew McIntyre for tonight’s WWE SmackDown show in San Jose, California was in serious doubt. WWE had provided an update on Thursday saying that the match was still set to go for the show.
PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that his sources stated that WWE officials made the decision for Fatu to no longer be competing for tonight’s show. This decision reportedly was made less than an hour ago.
Johnson reported that despite Fatu no longer being scheduled to compete, he is backstage at tonight’s taping.
Johnson also reported that WWE officials have changed their plans for a rematch between Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre to be the new main event for tonight’s show.

Backstage Update on Powerhouse Hobbs Leaving AEW & Signing with WWE
WWE: Tiffany Stratton Absence & Return Plans Update, Liv Morgan Alleged Stalker Arrest Trial Update, Backstage Update on Shinsuke Nakamura’s Deleted Instagram Post About AJ Styles Retiring at WWE Royal Rumble 2026
Various: Mini Vikingo vs. Octagon Jr. vs. Laredo Kid for AAA Cruiserweight Title Set for 1/24 AAA TV Show, Potential Next Destination for Tommaso Ciampa’s Wrestling Career, EVIL’s Expected NJPW Departure & Joining WWE Update




