Rikishi Leaving KnokX Pro

WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi is set to depart KnokX Pro Wrestling Academy.

Rikishi has been heavily involved with the training school and promotion for many years, with the company under the leadership of cousin Reno Anoa’i. Taking to X/Twitter, the former WWE Intercontinental Champion shared the following announcement:



“Love and respect KnokX Pro Entertainment & Academy. As I take my leave, I appreciate your understanding and respect for my decision to rest now. KnokX Pro Entertainment & Academy - @knokxpro #Rikishi #Fatu”



The academy was widely condemned by the pro-wrestling world in 2025 after an incident at a KnokX Pro show in which Raja Jackson assaulted Syko Stu, with Jackson knocking Stu unconscious and landing over 20 blows to his head. The assault was later investigated by the LAPD.

KnokX Pro was at one time part of WWE’s ID affiliate programme, but WWE severed all ties following the Raja Jackson incident. In the wake of the incident, Rikishi was reported to have enacted sweeping changes in the academy, but it is unknown at the time of writing if Rikishi’s 2026 exit is part of the ongoing fallout of the attack.