SHOCKING VIDEO: Former bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger attacked with flying kick in South Africa

Arnold Schwarzenegger blindsided, drop-kicked in the back during sporting event in South Africa [Photo courtesy]

This is the shocking moment former bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger got drop-kicked from behind as he mingled with fans.

The ex-bodybuillder, 71, was completely taken by surprise as he was knocked into the crowd during the random attack.

He later claimed he hadn't realised he'd been attacked and thought he'd been pushed about by over-eager fans.

At the time he was hosting the Arnold Classic Africa in South Africa and seemed in high spirits as he posed for selfies and signed autographs.

All of a sudden a man leaps in the air and kicks him in the back before the shocked Terminator star falls off-camera in shock footage.

Security rushed in to apprehend the man and he was quickly taken away.

The attacker had been seen lurking around and watching the film star before he pounced on him.

A shocked Arnie walked out of the convention centre moments later.

The tough guy later tweeted about the incident, claiming he didn't even know he had been attacked.

He posted: "Thanks for your concerns, but there is nothing to worry about. I thought I was just jostled by the crowd, which happens a lot.

"I only realized I was kicked when I saw the video like all of you. I’m just glad the idiot didn’t interrupt my Snapchat."