The 2023 CrossFit Games are currently underway in Madison, Wisconsin. Due to the large number of competitors, there are likely to be some withdrawals from the contest. Hopefully, they are reduced to a minimum and all of the competitors get to experience CrossFit’s greatest competition to the fullest. However, some have already been forced to leave the Games due to unfortunate circumstances. So, this article is made to cover every withdrawal from this competition and will be updated adequately.
CrossFit Believe
Just one day before the CrossFit Games began, the CrossFit Believe team was already forced to withdraw. Unfortunately, one of the team members, Josh Mattes, suffered a bad injury while preparing for the Games.
Josh Mattes was just practicing his Handstand-Walk technique in a gym when his hand slipped. He then fell face-first to the floor, which evidently had severe consequences since he was immediately rushed to the hospital. After further examinations, Josh notified his teammates that he wouldn’t be able to compete, as he had to undergo plastic surgery for his face. Josh then revealed that he broke his nose in five places and shared a very explicit photo. You can see the photo here, but be aware if you are sensitive to blood or injuries.
Although CrossFit Believe had notified CrossFit about putting in a substitution for Josh Mattes, they received a negative answer. CrossFit revealed that they had already submitted their lineup for the CrossFit Games and that it was too late to change it.
Related: The CrossFit Games Relocates from Madison, WI, For 2024 Edition
Another man was on the initial roster for the 2023 CrossFit Games, but will not take part. The man in question is the South African star, Jason Smith. However, it was not his choice, as CrossFit suspended him after he failed his drug test.
No other competitors have withdrawn so far, but some have done so long before the 2023 CrossFit Games started. Those include the 6x Fittest Woman On Earth, Tia-Clair Toomey, as well as some other elite athletes like Mal O’Brien, Ricky Garard, Kara Saunders, and more.