Chad Gable undergoes Surgery Following Backstage Incident
Professional wrestler Chad Gable is set to undergo surgery for a shoulder injury sustained in a recent backstage altercation, effectively taking him off television for an indefinite period. The incident, which occurred after a televised match, involved fellow wrestler Penta and was initially reported as a brutal attack stemming from a verbal disagreement.
Sources now reveal the attack served as a storyline device to explain Gable’s absence while he addresses a pre-existing injury. Gable had reportedly been competing while injured for some time, concealing the severity of the issue. The surgery is scheduled for early July, but the full extent of the damage and a projected recovery timeline remain unclear. As of June 2024, the average recovery time for a meaningful shoulder surgery for a professional athlete is between 6-9 months, potentially sidelining Gable through the first half of 2025.
A Demanding Schedule Preceded the Injury
The timing of the injury comes after a particularly demanding period for Gable. He recently participated in WWE Worlds Collide in Los Angeles, facing El Hijo del Vikingo in a high-profile main event. On the same day, Gable showcased his versatility by competing as his alter ego, “El Grande Americano,” in the Men’s Money In The Bank Ladder Match – a notoriously physically taxing contest.
Americano also holds the WWE Speed Title, successfully defending it against Berto on June 17th. His last officially sanctioned match before the incident was against AJ Styles on an episode of “Raw” following the Money In The Bank event. This relentless schedule,coupled with competing while injured,likely exacerbated the existing shoulder condition. For context, a study published in the American Journal of sports Medicine found that professional wrestlers have a considerably higher incidence of shoulder injuries compared to athletes in other sports, due to the repetitive overhead motions and high-impact maneuvers involved.
A Curious Coincidence
Adding an unusual layer to the situation, reports surfaced suggesting a similar injury occurred to “El Grande Americano” – Gable’s masked persona – in a separate, unrelated incident. While initially raising eyebrows, this was quickly clarified as a coincidental occurence, unrelated to the backstage incident and Gable’s actual injury. It highlights the physical demands placed on performers who often juggle multiple characters and wrestling styles within a short timeframe.
The situation underscores the risks inherent in professional wrestling and the importance of prioritizing athlete health and well-being. While the storyline surrounding the injury provides a narrative explanation for Gable’s absence, the underlying reality is a serious medical issue requiring surgical intervention and a dedicated recovery period. Fans and colleagues alike are wishing Gable a swift and complete recovery.