Exclusive Backlash Interview with Jacob Fatu

Exclusive Backlash Interview with Jacob Fatu

From The Rich Eisen Show by ESPN, Rich Eisen Productions, Rich Eisen

May 7, 2026 · 3 min

About this episode

Jacob Fatu discusses his upcoming match against Roman Reigns at WWE Backlash and the personal stakes involved.

"The Samoan Werewolf" Jacob Fatu joins No-Contest Wrestling ahead of this weekend's WWE "Backlash" PLE. Fatu will have the biggest match of his career at Backlash when he takes on his cousin Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship. Jacob revealed to O'Shea and T.J. that despite the family ties, it's time for him to step up and do what's right for him, his wife, and their seven children. What makes this battle even more personal is that Jacob's grandmother and Roman's father are brother and sister. Among other things, Fatu also shared why he decided to use the feared "Tongan Death Grip" against Roman, the lesson's he learned from being incarcerated at 18, the lengths he'll go to secure the World Championship and more. NCW also salutes The New Day, as the legendary tag team & WWE recently parted ways. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Guest: Jacob Fatu

Topics covered

  • WWE Backlash
  • Jacob Fatu
  • World Heavyweight Championship
  • family ties
  • Tongan Death Grip
  • personal battles
  • The New Day

Keywords

  • Jacob Fatu
  • Roman Reigns
  • WWE Backlash
  • World Heavyweight Championship
  • Tongan Death Grip
  • family ties
  • The New Day

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: WWE, The New Day

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