Crimber (Olimpia, SP, Brazil), who had recently returned to competition after suffering a broken vertebra on Feb. 23 in St. Louis, was thrown from his bull in the first round of the Git-R-Done Invitational. The 10-year veteran landed on his right shoulder, and the bull subsequently fell on top of him.  X-rays reviewed on Monday, June 9, determined Crimber  re-broke the C1 vertebra in his neck.  Crimber also broke his right collarbone (riding hand) and sustained several other injuries during the wreck.

The X-rays taken on Monday showed that Crimber displaced the bone and will require surgery, which is scheduled for this Friday in Dallas.

“This is a career-threatening injury, and it will take at least six months before the status of his career is known,” stated Dr. Tandy Freeman, traveling PBR Doctor and Orthopedic Surgeon.

Three-time PBR World Champion Adriano Moraes stated, “It’s heart-breaking to see a dreamer have to face reality, and that reality is that he might not be able to ride again or achieve his life-long dream of becoming a World Champion.”

Former PBR President and nine-time World Champion Cowboy Ty Murray said, “I wouldn’t rule out anything at this point.  It depends on a person’s will, want and determination.  We’ve seen athletes come back in every sport when a doctor has said their careers were over.  It just depends on where Paulo is at in his life and what he wants.”

Crimber, known for his celebratory dances after successful rides, has been a popular fixture on the PBR’s Built Ford Tough Series presented by Wrangler from 1998 to 2008.  The Brazilian native has had an impressive career which boasts career earnings of $1,119,781, nineteen 90-point rides, and two BFTS event wins.

“I feel terrible for Paulo and his family.  It’s a very sad day for him, his family and the sport of professional bull riding,” stated Randy Bernard, PBR CEO. “Paulo has been a great athlete and role model on the PBR tour and my prayers are out to him for a speedy recovery.”

The PBR will post more information when it becomes available; however, the next injury update is not expected until next week.

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