Big E neck break: WWE Superstars react to sickening SmackDown injury

WWE Superstar Big E was rushed to hospital on Friday night after suffering a broken neck on SmackDown.

The former WWE champion was competing in a tag team match against Sheamus and Ridge Holland in Birmingham, Alabama, with New Day partner Kofi Kingston when the injury occurred..

Outside the ring, Holland attempted a suplex on Big E, real name Ettore Owen, one which was not executed correctly.

The botched takedown resulted in Big E landing on his head before rolling away and lying motionless a few feet from the accident, creating silence amongst the crowd.  

Although the camera did not show Big E for the remainder, the match continued briefly as medical staff treated the injured fighter.

Just hours after the horrific incident, Big E released a video from his hospital bed, in which he could be seen wearing a neck brace.

The grappler appeared in good spirits, but confirmed having suffered a neck injury.

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He said: “I can move all my digits, that’s always a good thing. Strength feels fine. But unfortunately, right now they tell me my neck is broken, so there’s that.”

Big E has also assured fans that he has sustained no other injuries and thanked them for their support.

He continued: “Once again, thank you everybody. I’ll be good, don’t worry, go to sleep, don’t worry about ‘ol me. But for real, thank you. I appreciate all of you.”

His statement quickly reached the wrestling community, and there has been an outpour of support for the 36-year-old, including tributes from big names past and present such as Bobby Lashley, The Miz, Mick Foley and Liv Morgan.

One tweet, from WWE ringside reporter Kayla Braxton, reads: “Big E is truly one of the most incredible humans I’ve ever known. Broken neck and he’s