The most prestigious rodeo event in the world, the Wrangler NFR, has always offered fans a gala time through back-to-back nail-biting displays. Being the event of the rodeo season, it invites 15 contestants to claim their final win. The disciplines include barrel racing, bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and tie-down roping. Among them, the bull riding title holder has fans at his knees.

Ky Hamilton’s “you take the pain with the gain” mantra has shone through in Round 7 of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. In 2022, he was the fourth position holder in the bull riding world standings. And now, the world witnessed the first Australian to clinch the bull riding World Champ crown in Las Vegas. But the triumph got that extra oomph after a shout-out from a close one.

Rodeo legend accolades Hamilton

Dale Brisby, the YouTube star, bull rider and rancher, has taken to his Instagram to post, “Congratulations @kyjohnhamilton can’t keep a good man down, no matter how hard you try! WORLD CHAMP @jbmauneyxv @randyquartieri @tylerraytaylor @c.fritzlan @ Jim Sharp.” He appreciated the Queensland legend for standing strong against all odds. “MAGA” had thrown Hamilton off in the 5th round, which led to his unconsciousness. But his comeback proved that Ky Hamilton is an epitome of determination.

In the Instagram post, a bunch of rodeo legends posed alongside the winner, among whom JB Mauney was also present. The 36-year-old bull riding specialist’s own PRCA dreams look far-fetched after his retirement, but he co-hosted with Brisby at the 2023 Wrangler NFR. So naturally, the rodeo duo, also great friends of each other, featured in the stellar frame. But the most noteworthy thing is, fans from all over jumped in to extend love to the star-studded line-up.

Fans go gaga over the legends

One fan pointed out his favorite among the athletes, and no one would doubt his choice. He penned, “Dales the best bull rider in this photo.” Another fan had a unique thing to notice, the jeans creases. He remarked, “Cowboys love that George Strait crease on their jeans!” Praising real legends over pretentious TikTok stars, one fan had a direct response on the comment box. Said, “Real cowboys, not that TikTok fake western influencer shit.”

Since the picture graced both current and former bull riders, a fan could see her dream turn true. She commented, “Well deserved!! Insane that my favorite childhood bull rider and current favorite are good pals! Natural eye for talent.” Another said in the same vein, “Imagine pulling up to the bar and seeing this crew there. Nothing but legends!” The 2024 rodeo season would undoubtedly have more such moments to cherish.

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