NRL veteran Andrew Fifita has been placed in an induced coma following an injury to his larynx.
The Cronulla Sharks' bulldozing forward came off second best in a contact with Newcastle Knights duo Kurt Mann and and Sauaso Sue.
He was ultimately taken off for a HIA but returned later in the game.
His time on the field didn't last for too long though and he came off just five minutes later.
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It's understood he had sustained a throat injury and was then rushed to hospital for further treatment after the game.
Now, according to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Sharks forward has been placed in an induced coma by doctors but remains in a stable condition.
SMH reporter Michael Chammas tweeted: "Andrew Fifita is in ICU and has been placed in an induced coma.
He is stable. Hopefully time to rest will reduce the severe swelling to allow him to breathe properly. Surgery expected to follow. Thoughts with Andrew and his family."
Rugby league fans up and down the country have flocked to social media to send messages of support to the 32-year-old.
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Fifita's club, the Cronulla Sharks, also released a statement of their own providing an update on his condition.
"The Sharks can confirm that Andrew Fifita suffered an injury to his throat, following an incident early in the second half of today's match against Newcastle," the team said in a statement.
"After the match Andrew reported difficulty swallowing. He was also noted to have a hoarse voice at this time and his care was escalated to the paramedics with a suspected laryngeal injury.
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"He was taken via ambulance to hospital, where a significant laryngeal injury was confirmed.
"Andrew remains in hospital, where he is receiving the best possible care.
"The Sharks will provide further updates when they become available."
We wish Andrew a speedy recovery.
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