FORT WORTH, Texas – Cassio Dias’s world title defense has unfortunately been put on pause as soon as it began.

The 2024 World Champion had tied for fifth place in Round 1 of the PBR Tucson thanks to an 88.25-point ride on Washita Red and was hoping to continue climbing the standings in Round 2 against Cliff Hanger.

Not only did he buck off in 5.36 seconds, but he was flung into the steel of the chutes and hit the dirt, screaming in pain.

Dias was immediately attended by Dr. Tandy Freeman and the rest of the PBR sports medicine team and was stretchered out of the arena, giving a thumbs-up salute to the crowd.

The news that followed, however, did not get a thumbs-up. Sideline reporter Kate Harrison relayed the news that Dias suffered a fractured right femur.

He was transported to a local hospital and underwent immediate surgery.

Yesterday, Dias’s wife, Juliana, posted a picture of a smiling Dias on Instagram and said all is well.

“The surgery was a success, with the graces of God and the protection of my mother,” Juliana wrote. “With Your support, nothing will bring us down but make us stronger.

“Cássio (will be) fine soon. He will be back doing what he loves the most, we will be together on another journey, this man has huge strength.”

The timetable for Dias’s return is unclear at the moment, but he will miss significant time, which will jeopardize his planned world title defense.

Before heading to the hospital, Dias was taking deep breaths to manage the pain but relayed his feelings to Harrison.

“I’m very, very sad.”

Photo courtesy of Josh Homer/Bull Stock Media