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.

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 more concerned with how we all feel. We don’t deserve that man.”

WWE are yet to release a statement of their own, but has acknowledged the situation, retweeting the support from other wrestling icons.

You can see some more reactions from people within WWE below.