Jey Uso stretchered out after brutal backstage ambush on WWE SmackDown before Elimination Chamber

WWE SmackDown took a dramatic turn before the first bell even rang. Jey Uso was attacked backstage by an unknown assailant shortly before the live broadcast began, creating immediate concern ahead of Elimination Chamber weekend.

Medical personnel rushed to the scene as confusion spread behind the curtain.WWE confirmed the situation in real time on social media, writing: “BREAKING: Emergency medical personnel have been called backstage minutes before #SmackDown. Reports are that a WWE Superstar was attacked backstage, but have yet to be confirmed. Tune in to @USANetwork at 8/7c for more as this story unfolds." Later, the company added, "It's chaos backstage at SmackDown in the aftermath of tonight’s reported attack on Jey Uso.

More details to come tonight, 8/7c on @usanetwork.”

Mystery attacker ambushed Jey Uso on SmackDown

The identity of the attacker is unknown as of writing. WWE has not released footage or confirmed suspects, leaving fans speculating about potential rivals. The timing raised even more questions, as the attack came one day before Elimination Chamber.

Before the ambush, Jey Uso was set to compete for a major opportunity. He had earned his spot in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match by defeating Bronson Reed and “Original” El Grande Americano in a Triple Threat Match on the February 23 edition of Raw.

The Chamber winner will challenge Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Title at WrestleMania 42.The backstage assault disrupted momentum at a critical point in Jey’s singles run. WWE has framed the situation as an unfolding story, with further updates expected soon.

Is Jey Uso still on the card for Elimination Chamber?

Despite the attack, The promotion has kept Jey scheduled for the Men’s Elimination Chamber match on February 28, 2026, in Chicago. He entered the high-stakes bout alongside Cody Rhodes, Trick Williams, LA Knight, Je'Von Evans, and Randy Orton, all competing for a WrestleMania title opportunity.In the days leading up to the event, Jey addressed critics during an appearance on ESPN First Take. He said, "Man, just keep watching your TV screen. Open your laptop up, put your iPad up, iPhone out. I’ll be on there somewhere, Uce. ESPN, Netflix, this Saturday, it’s Elimination Chamber, man. Pick one, Uce. I’ll be on there Monday, Friday too. Stay blessed, man, stop hating, man. Come to one of these shows, you might change your vibes.

You feel me?"As of the event, WWE continued promoting his participation, keeping the focus on the Chamber match.