Although Ric Flair kept his career alive by defeating United States Champion Montel Vontavious Porter twice in one week, it did not come without cost. In their Royal Rumble rematch, it appears the "Nature Boy" may have suffered severe damage to his left leg as a result of a brutal assault by SmackDown's "Franchise Playa."

After "Naitch" won by disqualification, MVP repeatedly bashed Flair's leg against the ring post, capped off by ramming it against the steel ring stairs. After the attack, SmackDown officials had to help Flair walk away from the ring. (WATCH)

Later, viewers got a glimpse of Flair in the locker room as he writhed in serious pain from his injury. Early reports suggest that he could have suffered serious ligament damage. Stay tuned to WWE.com and SmackDown for an update on Flair's condition as he prepares to face Mr. Kennedy at No Way Out.