The alleged victim in the Mark Sanchez stabbing incident has been released from the hospital, the 69-year-old’s lawyers tell TMZ Sports. However, he is facing serious injuries that make it difficult for him to communicate, indicating a long recovery ahead.

We spoke with attorneys Erik May and Eddie Reichert on Monday, representing Perry Tole, who was severely injured after an altercation with the former NFL quarterback early Saturday morning in downtown Indianapolis.

“He’s released from the hospital, recovering, and hopeful that he’ll regain function to speak,” May stated.

“Currently, he’s having a very hard time communicating due to a large gash on his face that has impacted his jaw, tongue, and mouth. He is resting at home, but we anticipate further medical treatment and ongoing care for the foreseeable future.”

Tole suffered a deep gash to his face, along with other injuries.

May commended the nearly 70-year-old for being a “tough son-of-a-gun,” noting he just received his U.S. citizenship in September.

Reichert also emphasized Tole’s strong family values, revealing that his son’s wedding is this weekend—an event he will now miss due to the incident involving Sanchez.

“We’re all really thankful that he’s still with us,” May expressed. “Anytime a 69-year-old gets into any kind of altercation, you worry about the health consequences.”

“It’s not every day you find yourself in a confrontation with a 6’2″, 230-pound ex-professional athlete.”

On Monday, Tole filed a civil lawsuit against Sanchez, claiming he “suffered permanent disfigurement, loss of function, other physical injuries, emotional distress, and other damages.”

He also sued FOX Corporation, alleging they should have been aware of Sanchez’s “unfitness” due to his “propensity for drinking and/or harmful conduct.”

Tole’s attorneys did not specify the amount of damages they are seeking.