Referee stops WWE match due to injury on SmackDown, superstar helped to the back by officials

This week's WWE SmackDown saw a top superstar suffer an injury. The superstar in question is the returning AJ Styles, who was in action against Carmelo Hayes.

The last time Styles featured on television was against Cody Rhodes at the Clash at the Castle: Scotland Premium Live Event. At the show, The Phenomenal One lost an "I Quit" Match to The American Nightmare for the Undisputed WWE Championship.

During Styles' opening segment on SmackDown, he was interrupted by Hayes. Moments later, LA Knight declared that Hayes would earn himself a shot at the United States Championship if he defeated Styles.

Unfortunately for Styles, his leg gave out during the match, leading to the referee throwing up the 'X' sign. The former WWE Champion was assisted to the back by officials as Hayes was announced the winner via referee stoppage.

However, Hayes didn't have time to celebrate his win, with Knight ambushing the new #1 contender for the United States Championship. Hayes, who was recently involved in a six-match series against Andrade, has been unsuccessful against LA Knight in the past.

As for AJ Styles, it remains to be seen if his injury is legitimate or kayfabe. We wish him a speedy recovery.