See You In 2024! Gordon Ryan Benched With ‘Badly Popped Rib’

The return of grappling superstar Gordon Ryan has hit an unexpected delay, as the 28-year announced on Friday that he is withdrawing from his upcoming matchup with Mason Fowler at the UFC Fight Pass Invitational on Dec. 9 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

According to his recent post to Instagram, Ryan will not be able to compete at the UFC Fight Pass Invitational due to injury. Apparently the no-gi grappling ace was performing back escapes during training and “badly popped” a rib. Ryan said he discussed the injury with his team after trying to train through it and decided it would be best to withdraw.

Check out Ryan’s full message below:

“A few days ago in training, I was performing back escapes and badly popped my rib during a misdirectional escape. After some time trying to train with it, myself and the team decided it was best to go ahead and reschedule the current matches that are planned. In other words, I won’t be competing until next year, but I will be at the events to see all my amazing supporters and coach my team. Sorry everyone, this is just part of the game.”

Ryan, who has amassed nearly 40-straight wins over the past several years, spent a considerable portion of 2023 rebounding from a multitude of injuries. In fact, there was a time when fight fans were highly concerned for the health of Ryan, but the grappling star seemed to make a quick and fairly miraculous return to form.

As of now, combat fans will have to wait until 2024 to see Ryan compete again. Assuming he doesn’t have any future setbacks Ryan will help lead a massive world championship event for Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) next July in Las Vegas, which has been selling tickets like hotcakes.