An emotional Ray Lewis forced to drop out of 'Dancing With the Stars' with injury

While rehearsing for Monday’s Dancing With the Stars, NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis reaggravated an old football injury. In 2010 Lewis tore a tendon in his foot, and, nine years later, a similar injury forced him to drop out of the dance competition.

“It's bothered me a lot,” said Lewis, “I’ve dealt with pain every practice, I push through anything.”

Lewis attempted to push through pain but after having a precautionary MRI, he got some bad news. Lewis’s doctor informed him that he tore three tendons and would require surgery. The doctor said, “You kept dancing on that until it actually ruptured.”

An emotional Lewis told his partner Cheryl Burke, “This is probably one of the hardest decisions of my life but I need to make sure I don't damage something enough to where I can't walk.”

Fans took to Twitter to offer their condolences and show the former Baltimore Ravens linebacker their appreciation.

Despite the injury, Ray was on hand for dance night and thankful for the opportunity. “God don't make no mistakes,” said Lewis, “And I take this opportunity to learn new things and find new people — but it taught me to dance again.”

Dancing With the Stars airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on ABC.

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