The story of James Burton “J.B.” Mauney is one of grit, resilience, and remarkable achievement in the world of professional bull riding. Known for his fearless spirit and record-breaking career, Mauney has become a household name in rodeo circles. Beyond his competitive legacy, he has also built a fortune through winnings, sponsorships, and business ventures, with his net worth estimated between $6 million and $8 million in 2024. His journey from small-town beginnings in North Carolina to global rodeo fame highlights how talent and determination can turn passion into long-term success.
Early Life and Passion for Rodeo
J.B. Mauney was born on January 9, 1987, in Mooresville, North Carolina. From a very young age, he was drawn to the rodeo lifestyle. His first experience came at just three years old when he rode sheep, a common starting point for aspiring bull riders. By the time he was 12, he was already testing his skills on bulls, inspired by legends like Jerome Davis. These early experiences shaped his competitive mindset and prepared him for the world stage.
Raised by his parents Tim and Lynne Mauney, J.B. grew up in a family that encouraged his ambitions. His journey from local rodeos to international fame reflects not just natural ability but years of discipline and risk-taking.
Career Achievements and Earnings
J.B. Mauney’s professional career began in earnest when he joined the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) in 2005. His rookie season in 2006 was a breakthrough, earning him $66,616.50 and the PBR Rookie of the Year title. From there, his income skyrocketed as he consistently took on the toughest bulls in the sport.
Between 2009 and 2011, his earnings ranged from $210,000 to $772,207 annually, a clear sign of his rising dominance. His crowning achievements came in 2013 and 2015, when he won the PBR World Championships. In 2013, he earned $1.385 million at the World Finals, bringing his total that year to a career-high of $1.8 million. Two years later, his 2015 title added another $1.541 million to his record.
By 2016, Mauney became the first bull rider in PBR history to surpass $7 million in career earnings. By the time he retired, his total winnings had exceeded $7.6 million, cementing his place as one of the sport’s highest-paid riders of all time.
Iconic Rides and Legacy
Mauney earned his reputation not only through money but also through his willingness to ride the fiercest bulls. He is one of only two men to ever ride Bushwacker, the world champion bull, for the full eight seconds—achieving a 95.25-point ride in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2013. He also successfully rode Asteroid, the 2012 World Champion bull, scoring 93.50 points in San Antonio, Texas.
Known for his preference for wearing a cowboy hat instead of a helmet, Mauney became a symbol of old-school grit in modern rodeo. He qualified for the PBR World Finals 15 times between 2006 and 2020 and tied Justin McBride in 2019 for the most televised wins in PBR history.
Injury and Retirement
In September 2023, J.B. Mauney’s legendary career came to a sudden halt. During the PRCA Extreme Bulls Division 2 event in Idaho, he suffered a devastating fall that left him with a broken neck. He underwent surgery that required rods, screws, plates, and disc removal. Just days later, Mauney announced his retirement from professional bull riding.
In an unusual twist, he later purchased the bull that caused his injury, Arctic Assassin, and moved it to his ranch in Texas. The decision reflected his deep respect for the animals and the sport, even after such a life-altering accident.
New Chapter: Coaching and Business Ventures
Retirement did not end Mauney’s involvement in rodeo. In 2024, he returned to PBR as the head coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters, a new team in the PBR Team Series. Alongside general manager Brandon Bates, Mauney now mentors the next generation of riders, passing down his experience and competitive edge.
Beyond coaching, J.B. has invested in Ultimate Bullfighters, a freestyle bullfighting organization he co-founded in 2020, expanding his influence beyond traditional rodeo. He also earns through sponsorships with brands like Monster Energy and YETI, both of which capitalized on his star power. His merchandise line, featuring T-shirts, hoodies, and posters, remains popular with fans worldwide.
Age, Family, and Personal Life
At 37 years old in 2024, J.B. Mauney lives in Stephenville, Texas, with his wife Samantha Lyne, a professional barrel racer and daughter of rodeo legend Phil Lyne. The couple married in 2017 and welcomed their first son in 2019. Mauney also has a daughter from his previous marriage to Lexie Wiggly, which lasted from 2012 to 2015.
Family remains central to his life, and his move to Texas reflects a desire to balance his professional commitments with a grounded lifestyle.
Net Worth and Financial Outlook
As of 2024, J.B. Mauney’s net worth is estimated at $6 million to $8 million. This wealth comes from his $7.6 million in career earnings, combined with endorsements, business ventures, merchandise sales, and his new role in coaching. His financial success underscores not only his talent in the arena but also his ability to leverage fame into long-term stability.
Final Thoughts
J.B. Mauney’s journey from a boy in North Carolina riding sheep to a two-time PBR World Champion and multimillionaire is the stuff of rodeo legend. His career is defined by daring rides, resilience through injuries, and an unshakable determination to face the toughest bulls in history.
Now retired and guiding the Oklahoma Wildcatters, Mauney’s legacy continues to shape the sport. With a net worth of up to $8 million, he is living proof that passion, risk, and perseverance can create both history and fortune. For fans and aspiring riders, J.B. Mauney remains a symbol of courage and commitment, embodying what it means to truly conquer the arena.