Spoiler On Former Champion’s Return During January 9 WWE SmackDown

2026 is getting started with a big trip to Europe for both brands. They also needed more star power on SmackDown after their return to a three-hour format. That called for a long-awaited return.

WWE SmackDown on January 9, 2026, Jacob Fatu made his return to WWE television during the main event Undisputed World Title match. After that, he assisted in a major, and quite shocking, title change.

It was reported that Jacob Fatu was spotted backstage in Germany. That upped things up with all gas and no brakes.

After being sidelined in October following a brutal segment with Drew McIntyre, and undergoing serious dental surgery, Fatu made his return to the fold in Germany.

WWE has big plans for Jacob Fatu at this stage of his career. He may have taken a break due to surgery, but now he’s back in a big way.

What’s your take on this surprise during WWE SmackDown? Do you think that this was the right place to do it? Let us know what you think in the comments section!