'That's an assault charge': America goes nuts over 'savage' NRL hit

Jorge Taufua’s enormous hit on Cameron Munster has made worldwide headlines, with America in awe of the insane moment.

The Manly winger is known for his massive hits, but his effort on Munster was particularly brutal.

So brutal in fact that the Yanks have taken notice.

American sports site Bleacher Report tweeted the video on Tuesday, simply saying “Laid him out” with an embarrassed face emoji.

It quickly amassed some 200,000 views, with the comments particularly hilarious.

“Couple million Americans just found another existing sport,” one user wrote.

“WTF is this sport?” another said.

While another added: “With no pads omg that’s an assault charge.”

Taufua’s hit was also posted on the ‘House of Highlights’ Instagram account, which usually only features American sports highlights.

NBA stars Bradley Beal and JR Smith even took notice - Beal commenting “NOOOOOO” and Smith “Damn.”

The ‘House of Highlights’ clip racked up over two million views.

“That’s a ban for life in the NFL,” one person wrote.

Taufua’s latest highlight-reel hit

The Sea Eagles winger has been making a name for himself cleaning up opponents for years, and a quick perusal of Youtube showcases Taufua rib-ticklers on the likes of Justin O'Neill, Young Tonumaipea, Issac Luke and now-teammate Dylan Walker.

The Munster shot, which was arguably the new benchmark for tackle of the NRL season, left his teammates in awe, with noted big hitters Jake Trbojevic and Martin Taupau marvelling at his ability.

"I was right near it (and) it was one of the biggest hits I've ever seen," Trbojevic said.

"He's come from the other wing and somehow made the biggest connection ever."

Taupau added: "I think it's a lesson for everyone - you just don't run at Jorge, you run the opposite side. You cringe, I felt like I'd broken a rib."

Taufua was coy about the hit on Monday, however when asked if he'd watched a replay, he admitted: "I won't lie, maybe about 25 times."

But he insisted he was just trying to shut down the elusive Storm five-eighth and kill off the play after flying in from the other side of the field.

"He's elusive and I was expecting him to step me," Taufua said.

"The highlight reel could have been different, he could have stepped me and scored. I had to anticipate what he was going to do, I was thankful the play stopped there.”

with AAP