WWE forced to stop match LIVE on air as Austin Theory lands on neck after coming off top rope with Carmelo Hayes
WWE were forced to call off a match live on air last night after a terrifying in-ring accident between Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes.
Fans were left fearing the worst for both men after the two wrestling superstars suffered a horrific fall from the top rope on SmackDown.
The referee instantly called for the bell and waved the bout off after the nasty spot at the Pinnacle Bank Arena.
The heartstopping moment occurred when Theory tried to do a modified Spanish Fly off the top rope to Hayes.
But they ended up clashing heads as he left the ground, and then the pair ultimately ended up smashing down onto the mat and clashing heads again.
The concerned looking ref tried to speak with both wrestlers and then decided to call for the bell.
A few more officials headed down to the ring while Theory’s tag-team partner Grayson Waller also entered to check on his friend, who did not move for some time.
Fortunately, he was then spotted saying something to Waller as he looked to be in huge discomfort while holding the back of his head and neck.
Replays showed that Theory had appeared to have the worst of it on the landing.
The 26-year-old former US Title holder, the championship that is now around the waist of Logan Paul, fell on his neck at an awkward angle as he came off the ropes.
Commentators attempted to continue with the show while reiterating the message for fans to not try what they see in the ring themselves.
Viewers quickly took to X, formerly Twitter, to voice their concerns for the injured duo.
However, WWE moved quickly to attempt any fears as they issued an update on the duo.
A statement from WWE on X read: “UPDATE: Following their match tonight on #SmackDown, @_Theory1 and @Carmelo_WWE were evaluated for injuries.
“They both suffered face contusions, and will both be okay.”
This incident comes just weeks after Charlotte Flair also suffered a nasty injury on SmackDown.
The WWE legend was hurt in a match against Asuka in December and had to be helped out of the ring.
She then issued a worrying update from hospital and admitted she is “truly scared” after knee surgery.