Richie Sambora joined Bon Jovi in 1983, replacing Skid Row founder Dave Sabo. He stayed for 40 years, playing lead guitar on No. 1 hits like “Livin’ On a Prayer” and “You Give Love a Bad Name.” However, Sambora shocked frontman Jon Bon Jovi when he abruptly exited the band in 2013. However, he didn’t abandon music altogether, forming the duo RSO with Orianthi in 2017. But it looks like the New Jersey-born guitarist, 66, has had to take a step back after seriously injuring his hand in 2025.
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Richie Sambora Broke His Hand Ahead Of Kentucky Derby Appearance
Just a week before his performance at the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala on May 2, Richie Sambora fractured his hand during a game of touch football in his home state of New Jersey.
“He caught a ball and some guy gave him a touch right into a curb,” a source told People magazine. “He was completely swollen, and fractured his hand in two places.”
Despite “over-the-top” pain, the former Bon Jovi guitarist powered through his Kentucky Derby set. “When he told the doctor he was going to the Derby, the doctor said, ‘You’re out of your mind.’ But he said, ‘See ya! I’m going,’” the source said. “That’s the kind of guy Richie is. He’s a man of his word.”
Still, Sambora needed surgery to rebreak and rest his hand. Now, he is healing under the supervision of sports medicine experts who work with NFL stars, a source told People.
The source says that doctors expect Sambora to heal in half the time expected for such an injury.
[RELATED: Richie Sambora Would Love To Perform With Bon Jovi but There Is One Condition]
In celebration of his 66th birthday on July 11, 2025, the guitar icon released a new song, “Born to Rock.”
Is a Bon Jovi Reunion Possible?
After Richie Sambora’s exit, Bon Jovi tapped guitarist Phil X as his replacement. However, the New Jersey rocker has indicated in the past that he is open to a reunion with his former bandmates. He recently reiterated this stance during an interview with Howie Mandel.
“Absolutely,” Sambora said. “You know what? The fans would… I would have to do it.”
Featured image by Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Unbridled Eve
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