James Burton “J.B.” Mauney stands as the ninth greatest bull rider in Professional Bull Riding (PBR) history. Born January 9, 1987, in Charlotte, North Carolina, this two-time PBR World Champion earned over $7.4 million throughout his career. His fearless approach to riding the most dangerous bulls earned him the nickname “the Dragonslayer.”
At 38 years old in 2025, Mauney has transitioned from competitor to coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters. He lives in Stephenville, Texas, with wife Samantha Lyne and their children, having retired after a career-ending injury in 2023.
J.B. Mauney Bio/Wiki
| Facts | Details |
| Full Name | James Burton “J.B.” Mauney |
| Born | January 9, 1987 |
| Age (2025) | 38 years old |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches |
| Competition Weight | 140 pounds |
| Birthplace | Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Current Home | Stephenville, Texas |
| Wife | Samantha Lyne (married 2017) |
| Children | Jagger Briggs, Bella |
| Career Earnings | $7,419,474.90 |
| Net Worth | $6-8 million (estimated) |
| Championships | 2013, 2015 PBR World Champion |
| Current Position | Oklahoma Wildcatters Head Coach |
J.B. Mauney Personal Background and Physical Profile
J.B. Mauney measures 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighed 140 pounds during his competitive years. His compact frame proved ideal for bull riding, allowing superior balance and control. French heritage on his father’s side contributed to his distinctive appearance and mental toughness.
Parents Tim and Lynne Mauney raised him with strong values in Mooresville, North Carolina. His slight build contrasted with his fearless mentality, making him unique among professional riders. The decision to wear a traditional cowboy hat instead of a helmet after 2013 reflected his confidence and connection to cowboy culture.
His physical specifications became an asset rather than a limitation. While larger competitors relied on strength, Mauney developed techniques emphasizing balance and mental preparation. This approach would define his legendary career.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Mauney first rode a “big” bull at age 13, setting the stage for an 18-year professional career. His natural talent emerged through the Southern Rodeo Association (SRA), where he won the junior all-around title in 2002 and adult all-around title in 2004.
He attended Mooresville High School while pursuing rodeo interests. The young rider balanced education with competition, showing early signs of the dedication that would define his professional approach. His amateur success provided the foundation for transitioning to professional circuits.
Initial professional competition included both PBR and Championship Bull Riding (CBR) circuits. By early 2006, he focused exclusively on PBR, recognizing the organization’s premier status. This strategic decision accelerated his path to championship success.
J.B. Mauney Professional Career Achievements
Mauney’s professional debut in 2005 led to winning the 2006 PBR Rookie of the Year award with earnings exceeding $66,000. In an interview with PBR he said: “If you want to be the best, you’ve got to ride the best.” This mindset drove him to consistently choose the rankest bulls available.
Championship years brought massive financial rewards. The 2013 title generated $1.8 million in earnings, including $1.385 million from World Finals competition. His 2015 championship added another $1.5 million to his career total.
Record achievements include 538 qualified premier series rides (second all-time), 75 rides scoring 90+ points (third-most), and 32 Premier Series wins (tied with Justin McBride). He qualified for PBR World Finals for 15 consecutive years from 2006-2020.
Legendary Bull Matchups
The rivalry with Bushwacker, the three-time PBR World Champion bull, defines Mauney’s fearless approach. They met 13 times, with Mauney among only three riders to complete eight seconds on the nearly unbeatable animal. Their battles became legendary within professional rodeo.
Tulsa, Oklahoma, in August 2013 witnessed their most famous encounter. Mauney broke Bushwacker’s streak of 42 consecutive buck-offs, scoring 95.25 points. “Bushwacker never bucked in any rounds that weren’t elite once he entered the BFTS. I always picked Bushwacker in the elite rounds,” he explained.
Asteroid, the 2012 World Champion bull, provided another memorable matchup. Mauney scored 93.50 points in San Antonio, Texas during August 2012, becoming one of only five riders to conquer the legendary animal. These victories against elite bulls cemented his reputation.
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Career-Defining Injuries and Comebacks
Mauney faced numerous injuries that would have ended other careers. His resilience became part of his legend, consistently returning to competition despite physical setbacks. The ability to maintain elite performance through pain and recovery periods distinguished him from peers.
In September 2023, during a PRCA Xtreme Bulls event in Idaho, he suffered a serious neck injury that required surgery and ultimately led to his retirement on medical advice.
Retirement came four days later with characteristic grace. According to The Fence Post 2023 he shared “This is not the way I wanted to go, but everything happens for a reason” He returned home to Texas shortly after, officially marking his retirement from Professional Bull Riding.
J.B. Mauney Personal Life and Family
Samantha Lyne became Mauney’s wife in 2017, following his 2015 divorce from Lexie Wigley. A professional barrel racer and daughter of five-time PRCA world champion Phil Lyne, she brought her own rodeo credentials to their relationship. Her Texas Christian University education and family connections strengthened their bond.
Son Jagger Briggs Mauney born in 2019, joining daughter Bella (born in 2011) from his previous marriage. The family relocated to Stephenville, Texas, after purchasing property in late 2020. Phil Lyne’s achievements include the Linderman Award in 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1976.
Family life centers around their Texas ranch, where Jagger shows early riding interest. Samantha’s sister Amanda Lyne maintains close family ties. The rodeo heritage from both sides creates a supportive environment for the children’s interests.
J.B. Mauney Financial Success and Net Worth
Career earnings of $7,419,474.90 make Mauney the highest-earning Western sports athlete in history. He became the first rider to surpass $7 million on November 5, 2016, setting a milestone that stood for years. According to multiple online reports, His estimated net worth in 2025 ranges between $6-8 million.
Current income streams include coaching the Oklahoma Wildcatters, PBR commentary work, merchandise and endorsement deals, and bull breeding operations. He has also worked with brands such as Monster Energy (2013–present) and YETI (2015–present) as part of his career endorsements.
Business ventures extend beyond riding. Co-ownership of Ultimate Bullfighters (UBF) since 2020 diversifies his portfolio. Ranch operations in Stephenville include breeding programs and plans for event lighting installations for nighttime competitions.
Retirement and Career Transition
Mauney purchased Arctic Assassin, the bull that ended his career, moving him to his Texas ranch for retirement. This gesture reflects his understanding of the sport’s nature and harbors no resentment toward the animal. The decision demonstrates his character and respect for bull riding traditions.
Coaching began in 2024 with the Oklahoma Wildcatters in the PBR Team Series. His approach mirrors his riding philosophy: complete dedication. “Next year, one of two things is gonna happen: They’re either gonna win everything, or they’re not gonna like me very much,” he stated about his coaching style in Cow Boys Indians 2025.
The team finished their inaugural 2024 season with an 11-16-1 record, ranking eighth overall. Early success came in March 2025 when the Wildcatters defeated the Arizona Ridge Riders to win the PBR Monster Energy Team Challenge in Thousand Palms, California.
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Current Activities and Legacy
Mauney’s influence extends beyond statistics to embody pure cowboy culture: determination, calculated risk-taking, and unbreakable spirit. In 2018, PBR Interview Fellow champion Justin McBride summarized his impact : “He is in a class of his own, the best bull rider of his generation…he will forever be in the conversation as the greatest the PBR has ever seen.”
Current activities include ranch management, bull breeding programs, and developing young riders through his coaching role. His willingness to ride the most dangerous bulls, earning the Dragonslayer nickname, set him apart from safety-conscious competitors.
The Ring of Honor induction awaits, cementing his place among Professional Bull Riding legends. His story continues inspiring future generations to pursue excellence regardless of physical limitations or obstacles.
Conclusion
J.B. Mauney went from riding as a teenager to becoming one of Professional Bull Riding’s most respected competitors. His journey from Charlotte, North Carolina, to earning $7.4 million represents dedication, courage, and skill at the highest level. The career-ending injury forced unwanted retirement, but his gracious transition to coaching demonstrates character.
His career is remembered not only for records and prize money but also for earning the Dragonslayer nickname, which came from his habit of selecting the most difficult bulls to ride.
Future riders are expected to learn from his techniques and approach to competition. His career continues to influence cowboy culture and Western sports.
FAQ About J.B. Mauney
Q: How old is J.B. Mauney in 2025?
A: 38 years old, born January 9, 1987.
Q: Who is J.B. Mauney’s current wife?
A: Samantha Lyne, professional barrel racer and daughter of PRCA champion Phil Lyne.
Q: What is J.B. Mauney’s estimated net worth?
A: Between $6-8 million based on career earnings and business ventures.
Q: What ended J.B. Mauney’s riding career?
A: Broken neck injury from Arctic Assassin on September 6, 2023.
Q: How many children does J.B. Mauney have?
A: Two children – Jagger Briggs (2019) and Bella (2011).
Q: What does J.B. Mauney do now?
A: Head coach of Oklahoma Wildcatters and bull breeding operations.
Q: Where does J.B. Mauney live now?
A: Stephenville, Texas on his ranch property.
Jance Vicky founded Measurevan.com and brings 8+ years of experience writing about famous people from all walks of life. She covers celebrities, sports stars, business leaders, artists, and politicians with care and accuracy. Jance focuses on creating easy-to-read biographies that tell real stories about people’s lives, careers, families, and achievements. Her goal is to help readers learn interesting facts about well-known personalities. At Measurevan, Jance works hard to provide trustworthy information that respects people’s privacy while sharing their inspiring journeys and accomplishments
