WATCH: Champion surfer punches shark during attack

An Australian champion surfer has fought off a shark which attacked him during a competition.

Surfer Mick Fanning was taking part in the J-Bay Open in South Africa when he was knocked off his board by a shark.

He used his surfboard to defend himself from the shark.

"It came up and got stuck in my leg rope," he said after the ordeal. "I instantly just jumped away. It kept coming at my board and I was kicking and screaming.

"I just saw fins. I punched it in the back."

The water was cleared and both he and fellow Finalist Julian Wilson were quickly picked up by safety nearby safety boats.

Fanning was unharmed, and both surfers will meet with the Commissioner.

The CEO of the World Surf League, Paul Speaker, called Fanning a hero.

"We are incredibly grateful that no one was seriously injured today. Mick's composure and quick acting in the face of a terrifying situation was nothing short of heroic and the rapid response of our Water Safety personnel was commendable - they are truly world class at what they do.

"The safety of our athletes is a priority for the WSL and, after discussions with both Finalists, we have decided to cancel the remainder of competition at the ‪#‎JBayOpen‬.

"We appreciate the ongoing support we have in South Africa and once again want to express our gratitude to the Water Safety Team."

We are incredibly grateful that no one was seriously injured today. We want to express our deep gratitude to the Water Safety Team.

— World Surf League (@wsl) July 19, 2015

.@Mick_Fanning's composure and quick acting in the face of a terrifying situation was nothing short of heroic.

— World Surf League (@wsl) July 19, 2015

The safety of our athletes is a priority &, after discussions with both Finalists, we will cancel the remainder of #JBayOpen competition.

— World Surf League (@wsl) July 19, 2015