A "Battle Royale" style fight that started when a car drove into some traffic lights has left a man in hospital - and three others in police custody.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the altercation, which shut New Cross Road in both directions after 7pm and left a man with head injuries.

"Officers on routine patrol in New Cross saw a Smart car in collision with traffic lights on New Cross Road at the junction with Hatcham Park Road," Scotland Yard said in a statement.

"Subsequently there was an altercation between an occupant of the Smart car and three occupants of a VW Golf that stopped at the scene.

"Enquiries continue to establish whether anyone else had been travelling in either of the cars."

Jeeeeesus. Something is going down in New Cross. A photo posted by Matty Curry (@mattycurry) on May 27, 2015 at 10:59am PDT

Four men, including the injured party, were arrested on suspicion of affray, with one also suspected of causing grievous bodily harm.

The man's injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Witnesses took to social media to find out what had happened. Will D (@‏Will_D89) said: "I swear at least once a week something major happens in New Cross that's serious."

Bleek (@LBMM__) added: "New Cross having a UFC Battle Royale."

UFC, or Ultimate Fighting Championship, is a martial arts event promoter.

Neighbour Esther Semple told the Standard the scene had unfolded "right outside" her house. "It's taken me two hours to get home," she added.

Police: New Cross Road is taped off (Picture: Esther Semple)

A "battle royal" is a fight involving a number of people that continues until only one is left standing. The 2000 blockbuster Battle Royale sees students at a Japanese school instructed to fight each other to the death during a field trip.

Anyone with information is asked to call Lewisham CID on 101, or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.