Nitro Circus stuntman Ethen Roberts completed four-and-a-half front flips in Auckland this morning to set a new blob jump world record.
But while the record attempt was a success, it didn't all go to plan.
With All Black greats Jeff Wilson and Josh Kronfeld lending their weight, Roberts was launched into a world first.
But the blob jump came at a cost, the 21-year-old left with mild concussion and a suspected perforated eardrum.
"I lost count at about three and then I just felt the water punch me in the face, and that's why I have a bloody nose and a numb ear," says Roberts.
He was cleared of any major damage after being checked by ambulance staff, but his effort drew admiration from the former All Blacks.
"He was going for a world record; I suppose you've got to take those risks," says Wilson. "Hopefully he's going to be okay, but when you see him flying like that, man it's gutsy."
As a successful cricketer and rugby player, Wilson can now add blob jumper to his extensive sporting CV.
"That's the first time, and could be the last time," he says. "But I tell you what, it's a lot of fun [and] it was great to be a part of it."
Kronfeld wasn't put off by Roberts' painful landing, requesting a jump of his own.
"Even though I said I didn't want to do it, I was quite happy to send Josh flying," says Wilson.
The dynamic duo will be leaving it to the professionals when Nitro Circus tours New Zealand in January.
3 News
source: newshub archive
