Normally, Simba would have been able to easily turn and face the lioness' second attack. Unfortunately, with his wounds, he was unable to react in time, the pain causing to flinch in mid-turn. Zira might not have landed exactly where she wanted to, but Simba's back was still unprotected.

Simba felt the lioness attach herself to his back, growling from the pain of yet more wounds caused by he sharp claws. His mane was quite thick, but not quite enough to completely protect him from her teeth. Simba let out another roar and tried to reach back with his front paws before using much of the last of his energy to flip himself over and try to crush the crazed lion under his weight.