Possibly the most terrifyingly awesome footage to surface out of competitive sport; Aussie surf champ Mick Fanning, survives a great white shark attack live on television during the Jeffery Bay Open in South Africa.

“I punched him in the back,” the 34-year-old said, who thankfully walked away unharmed, during an interview short after the close encounter. The chilling footage captures Fanning sitting afloat his board when a shark fin appears out of nowhere–like actual Jaws, chilling stuff. While he must be pretty traumatised by the experience, there is no doubt that Mick Fanning has just achieved one of the highest levels of Aussie sporting legend-status. Check out the incredible video footage of the incident above; as well as the full report from World Surf League, including the reactions of other competitors from the tournament.

More on sport

Watch these ESPN anchors attempt to understand AFL
Watch perfection in putt-putt
Sofles and sport at Roskilde Festival