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Two-Time PBR World Champion Jose Vitor Leme Set to Make a Comeback in Salt Lake City
Two-time PBR World Champion Jose Vitor Leme makes his return to competition at the PBR Salt Lake City event on Feb. 9-10 following a hiatus of over two months due to a groin injury.
After clinching the No. 2 spot in the 2023 rankings and demonstrating stellar performance with the Austin Gamblers in PBR Teams, Leme had anticipated a stronger start to the 2024 season. However, his aspirations were curtailed by the groin injury sustained during the initial events of the season in November and December.
Leme recalls feeling the injury during his ride on Buffalo Chip in St. Louis, managing to score 86.25 points despite the discomfort but ultimately unable to complete the event. Despite initially underestimating the severity of the injury, Leme's absence from subsequent premier series events, including PBR Majors, has seen him drop to 35th place in the Unleash The Beast World Championship standings.
Nevertheless, Leme's track record suggests he's capable of staging a remarkable comeback. In previous seasons, he has overcome injuries and maintained a formidable presence in the title race, even with reduced participation. His resilience and consistency have been evident, with past performances showcasing his ability to dominate the sport.
While his current season statistics may appear modest, Leme's past achievements speak volumes about his potential. With a perfect 4-for-4 record in his recent outings, including one impressive 90-point ride and a Top-5 finish, Leme demonstrates glimpses of his formidable prowess.
As Leme returns to the arena in Salt Lake City, speculation looms over whether he will resume his dominance. His Round 1 matchup against Modified Ride promises an exciting showdown, scheduled to commence on Feb. 9 at 9:45 p.m. ET, accessible via RidePass on Pluto TV. Only time will unveil the true extent of Leme's comeback potential.
