The 2023 CrossFit Games took place on August 1-6, in Madison, Wisconsin. Due to the large number of competitors, it was almost guaranteed that there would be some withdrawals from the contest. Fortunately, compared to previous years, we didn’t witness too many withdrawals this year, making for a more enjoyable experience. However, some athletes were still forced to leave the Games due to unfortunate circumstances.
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.
Shannon Aiken
Shannon Aiken is another notable figure in the sport who has withdrawn from the 2023 CrossFit Games. He competed in the Men’s 60-64 Age Group and was, in fact, the defending champion. Shannon hoped to replicate his performance from 2022, but cut it short for currently unknown reasons.
Shannon Aiken has taken part in three CrossFit Games competitions prior to this, winning twice (2017 & 2022), and taking second in 2018. Unfortunately, Shannon is walking away unsatisfied after his fourth appearance, but hope remains that the reason for his withdrawal is not too serious.
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Emma McQuaid & Ellie Turner
Emma McQuaid and Ellie Turner withdrew on the same day without much specification. Emma revealed that the reason for her withdrawal was medical, while Ellie revealed that she felt some problems in her lower back.
CrossFit CLT / CrossFit Torian / CrossFit Invictus Unconquerable
Three Teams also withdrew at the same time, and those were CrossFit CLT, CrossFit Torian, and CrossFit Invictus Unconquerable. Neither team came out with a statement about their reasons, but injuries seem to be the most likely cause.
Jamie Simmonds
Jamie Simmonds withdrew on the final day of the competition, but did not reveal any reason why she made the decision.
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.
Some other athletes withdrew 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.
2023 CrossFit Games Content
- 2023 CrossFit Games Results, Recap, & Leaderboards
- 2023 CrossFit Games Final Day Results — Jeffrey Adler & Laura Horvath Win
- 2023 CrossFit Games Results — Individual & Teams Day Three
- 2023 CrossFit Games Results — Individual & Teams Day Two
- 2023 CrossFit Games Results — Individual & Teams Day One
- How To Watch 2023 CrossFit Games
- 2023 CrossFit Games Workouts For Individuals & Teams Revealed
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