Kurt Angle’s illustrious WWE career was marked by numerous jaw-dropping moments, but none more harrowing than his repeated neck injuries at the hands of his fellow superstar Brock Lesnar. In a candid recollection on Joe Rogan experience, Angle reveals the startling details of how Lesnar managed to break his neck not just once, but on multiple occasions during their time in the ring together.
The first incident occurred during a wrestling match between the two, just a month before WrestleMania 19. Angle explains that he had Lesnar in a chokehold, with Lesnar running towards the other side of the ring. As Lesnar turned, Angle’s head whipped around, causing a sickening snap that left him unable to raise his arm. Angle knew immediately that he had broken his neck, requiring surgery the very next day.
Remarkably, Angle was able to compete at WrestleMania 19, despite his neck still being broken. However, the punishment was far from over, as Lesnar struck again just six months later. This time, Lesnar hit Angle over the head with a chair, once again causing a vertebrae to crack and leaving Angle sidelined for another three months.
Amazingly, Angle’s determination to return to the ring led him to rush back before his neck had fully healed, only to suffer yet another neck break during a match. In total, the WWE legend endured a staggering four neck fractures over the course of just two and a half years, all at the hands of his formidable opponent Brock Lesnar.
Angle’s recollection of these harrowing incidents serves as a sobering reminder of the incredible physical toll that the world of professional wrestling can take on even the most seasoned performers. His story highlights the incredible resilience and perseverance required to compete at the highest levels, as well as the grave risks that wrestlers face each time they step into the ring.
Kurt Angle vs Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam 2003 pic.twitter.com/irgW0s3j0J
— 2000's WWE (@2000s_WWE) February 2, 2023
