Just before Wildcatter Days roll into Oklahoma City for the PBR Teams league 2025 season opener on July 11, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum will host one of the most important events in our sport: the PBR Ring of Honor ceremony. While the ProRodeo Hall of Fame, the National Cowboy Hall of Fame, and many others across Western sports celebrate a variety of contributions, for a bull rider, receiving the PBR Ring of Honor is about as prestigious as it gets.

This year, headlining the recipients is two-time PBR World Champion and 2006 PBR Rookie of the Year JB Mauney — a man who revolutionized modern bull riding with a fearless, old-school approach that earned him the nickname “The Dragon Slayer.” And make no mistake, he lived up to it the hard way.

I remember when JB first burst onto the scene – just 18 years old, traveling with his buddy Brian Canter.

He wore a helmet, but because he was born before 1993 was grandfathered in under the rules. Eventually, JB chose to go old-school, pulling his dusty hat down tight and riding like the legends before him.

Personally, I believe every rider today should leave the chutes wearing a helmet—and most don’t have a choice. JB did, and he chose to ride with nothing but his hat – and the mantra of “hold on until your head hits the ground.”

He didn’t just want to be 85 points. Let’s be honest, nobody remembers 85 points.

JB wanted to make history every time the gate cracked.

And not long into his career, when the PBR introduced the draft, giving the top riders the chance to pick their bull, JB did what few others dared—he chose the ones nobody else wanted. He picked the rankest, wildest bulls on tour. Why? Because that’s what builds legacy. That’s what defines greatness.

Should he have more than two world titles? In my opinion – absolutely. But when riding the toughest bulls every chance you get, you’re not playing the points game. You’re chasing something bigger. That’s why JB is remembered the way he is. That’s why he’ll always be one of the greats.

During JB’s career, he rode more World Champion bucking bulls consecutively during his era of bull riding than anyone in PBR history. I was lucky enough to be at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas for both of his world title runs in 2013 and 2015. He cemented his legacy as one of the most dominant riders to ever compete and became the richest man in bull riding at the time, with over $7 million in career earnings – until José Vitor Leme surpassed that mark at the 2025 World Finals in Arlington, Texas, earning an impressive $1.8 million that weekend and his third gold buckle.

I’ve followed this sport closely for years, fortunate to be around JB during the early days of his professional career. We were both just kids once, living the lifestyle – playing music, laughing at the after-parties, and soaking in moments with our heroes. Yeah, probably passing a few drinks, too.

But even then, JB stood out. No matter how late the night if he had to be on camera or meet a sponsor the next morning, he showed up. He flipped the switch and handled his business like a pro. That kind of discipline is rare. That kind of commitment is what makes a champion.

JB reminded me in many ways of Lane Frost. It’s clear he modeled his style after Lane – not just in the arena, but in how he carried himself outside of it.

I wasn’t in Tulsa the day it happened, but I’ve long believed that JB Mauney vs. Bushwacker deserves a documentary—something like Lane vs. Red Rock, but for this generation.

JB matched up with that legendary bull 13 times across the PBR’s premier series, back when it was the Built Ford Tough Series (now Unleash The Beast). He faced him at big-time events, challenger events – wherever he could draw him. Why? Because if you want to be the best bull rider in the world, you have to ride the best bull in the world. That was JB’s mindset.

I’d love to see a full-length feature – JB vs. Bushwacker – with interviews from JB, stock contractor Julio Moreno, and those who witnessed it firsthand. Their matchups were the essence of what PBR was built on: the best riders taking on the best bulls—no shortcuts, no hesitation, just pure guts and greatness.

JB could’ve racked up more buckles had he played it safe, but that’s not how legends are made. He didn’t chase points—he chased moments. The kind that fans never forget.

On a personal note, JB always made time for me. He’d seek me out at events just to say hello, check in, and make me feel like one of the guys.

That’s what I miss the most – not just writing about these athletes or doing interviews but being around them. The friendships. The camaraderie. Knowing that your heroes respect you, too.

Today, JB continues to give back to the sport that shaped him. At his own training facility, Bucktown, he’s sharing his knowledge on YouTube and in person – but only with those he believes are serious about learning. He’s selective, and I respect that. He’s also started a podcast called MauneyCast. It’s great to see him staying involved in ways that still fuel his passion.

After receiving the Ring of Honor in Oklahoma City, JB will be back in action – not in the arena, but behind the chutes – as head coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters, who will be starting their 2025 PBR Team Series campaign at the Paycom Center. While not climbing aboard anymore, JB’s impact is still being felt.

His career was cut short by a neck injury sustained at a pro rodeo while chasing his second NFR qualification. But let’s face it – nothing short of a life-altering injury was going to make JB Mauney stop. For guys like him, the only way to leave the sport as a competitor is if the sport forces you to.

Joining JB in receiving PBR’s highest honor is the legendary Pam Minick — 1973 Miss Rodeo America, television pioneer, owner of Billy Bob’s Texas, and one of the most influential women in Western sports. When I was a teenager watching the PBR, everyone wanted to talk to Pam. That meant you were winning. She’s done more for this sport and Western culture as a whole than most will ever realize, and for that she’ll be recognized.

And of course, we also honor the legendary Freckles Brown – the man who rode the unbeatable Tornado on Dec. 1, 1967. That ride was so monumental, Red Steagall wrote a song about it.

Freckles was more than just a cowboy; he was a symbol of perseverance. His friendship with Clyde Frost and close ties to the Frost family made him a lifelong mentor to Lane Frost, someone who helped shape Lane into the icon he became. His influence stretched far beyond his own rides – he helped build the foundation for a generation.

These are just a few of the recipients and a glimpse into their stories, but there will be several more honored that night as well. Come join us on July 10 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City to celebrate the careers and lifetime achievements of every individual being recognized, including those not mentioned here.

For more information on how to get tickets, visit www.pbr.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Photos courtesy of Bull Stock Media

James Phillips is COO & Co-Founder, Midwest Outdoors Adaptability Foundation, which is working to make the outdoors more accessible for all. To learn how to support that mission, visit www.moafoundation.org.