Dragon Gate USA sent out the following:

We finally have an official update on Open The Freedom Gate Champion Johnny Gargano

Anyone who saw “EVOLVE 10: A Tribute To The Arena” witnessed one of gutsiest performances in recent memory as Gargano struggled through a back injury to retain the title in a grueling 25 minute match against Ricochet. After several trips to a specialist the injury has been diagnosed as a grade 3 muscle tear in various muscles in Gargano’s lower back. Gargano’s lower back is still numb to the touch and he is still having trouble walking properly. Other symptoms include bad swelling, a bulge in the muscle and severe pain. These are all things Gargano felt immediately after the match, including when he was prone on the mat for several minutes after Ricochet tapped. The fact Gargano was able to finish and win this match shows the amount of heart and drive he possesses. Athletes can expect to miss 3-12 weeks of competition due to the injury.

This diagnosis leads us to DGUSA events in Miami on March 30th & 31st and EVOLVE on April 13th in Toronto, which fall in this 3-12 week time span. Gargano is working his hardest to be able to perform on these cards. However, he must think long term. We cannot confirm now that Gargano will be in action. However, business must continue. There is some talk of stripping Gargano of the DGUSA Title if he cannot defend it and holding a tournament in Miami to determine a new champion. At the same time, DGUSA officials don’t want to put pressure on Gargano to enter the ring before he is ready in order to remain champion. There really is no right answer in this situation. It is possible Gargano could be 100% for Miami anyway. Right now, no decisions are being made as we will see how things progress next week. There is pressure as DGUSA officials do have to start signing matches for this huge weekend in Miami and EVOLVE card in Toronto. Of course, holding a tournament would throw off current plans. We will keep you updated here in DGUSA.tv News Alerts.