Jacob Fatu used the Tongan Death Grip on Roman Reigns during a WWE RAW broadcast on May 4, 2026 [1].

The incident marks a significant escalation in a personal feud between the two wrestlers. By employing a high-risk maneuver, Fatu is attempting to establish a professional identity independent of his familial connection to Reigns [2].

WWE detailed the specific dangers associated with the Tongan Death Grip following the segment [1]. The maneuver is designed to incapacitate an opponent through intense pressure, emphasizing the physical stakes of the current rivalry. This specific attack serves as a catalyst for a deeper conflict between the cousins, shifting the narrative from a standard competition to a personal vendetta [1].

Fatu has expressed a desire to be recognized as an individual performer. He said he does not want to be known solely as the cousin of Roman Reigns [2]. This drive for recognition has fueled the aggression seen in recent matchups, as Fatu seeks to prove his dominance within the organization [2].

The confrontation took place during the RAW episode in the U.S. [1]. The segment highlighted the volatility of the relationship between the two athletes, a dynamic that has become a central plot point in their ongoing struggle for power. The use of the Tongan Death Grip is intended to signal that Fatu is willing to use any means necessary to step out of the shadow of his relative [1].

“Jacob Fatu used the Tongan Death Grip on Roman Reigns during a WWE RAW broadcast”

This development signals a shift in the character arc for Jacob Fatu, moving him from a supporting role to a primary antagonist. By utilizing a dangerous signature move against a top-tier star like Roman Reigns, WWE is positioning Fatu as a legitimate threat who prioritizes personal legacy and individual recognition over family loyalty.