The financial legacy of James Burton "J.B." Mauney remains one of the most compelling stories in professional sports. As of late 2024, the two-time PBR World Champion's estimated net worth sits robustly between $6 million and $8 million. This impressive fortune is not just a result of his record-breaking $7.4 million in career earnings—the highest in Professional Bull Riders (PBR) history—but also a testament to savvy endorsements and his transition into a high-profile coaching role after a career-ending injury in 2023.
The "Dragon Slayer" has successfully navigated the dangerous world of bull riding and emerged as one of its wealthiest figures. This article breaks down the exact components of Mauney’s wealth, from his historic rides on legendary bulls like Bushwacker and SweetPro's Bruiser to his current endeavors with the PBR Team Series, ensuring you have the most up-to-date information on the financial power of the PBR's greatest champion.
J.B. Mauney: Complete Biography and Professional Profile
J.B. Mauney’s life story is defined by grit, determination, and a willingness to face down the world’s most dangerous bulls. His transition from a small-town North Carolina rider to the highest-earning cowboy in PBR history is legendary. Here is a detailed look at the man behind the helmet:
- Full Name: James Burton Mauney
- Nickname: J.B., "The Dragon Slayer"
- Date of Birth: January 9, 1987
- Age (as of 2024): 37
- Birthplace: Charlotte, North Carolina, U.S.
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
- Weight: Approximately 140 lbs (64 kg)
- Wife: Samantha Lyne Mauney (Professional Barrel Racer, daughter of rodeo legend Phil Lyne)
- Children: Son, Jagger Briggs Mauney (born January 23, 2019)
- PBR Career: 2005–2023
- Retirement: 2023 (Due to a broken neck injury)
- Key Achievements: 2x PBR World Champion, All-Time PBR Career Earnings Leader ($7.4 Million)
- Current Role (2024): Head Coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters (PBR Team Series)
The Core of Mauney’s Fortune: Record-Breaking Career Earnings
The foundation of J.B. Mauney's net worth is his unparalleled success in the arena. His career earnings are the benchmark for all professional bull riders, a testament to his longevity and consistent performance at the highest level.
$7.4 Million: The PBR All-Time Earnings Record
Mauney officially retired in 2023 after suffering a career-ending broken neck injury, but his financial record remains untouched. He is the only bull rider to have surpassed the $7 million mark in the PBR alone, with his total career earnings from both PBR and PRCA events exceeding $7.6 million.
His earnings were accumulated through a combination of event wins, year-end bonuses, and two massive World Championship payouts:
- 2013 PBR World Championship: Mauney secured his first World Title in 2013, a season highlighted by his historic ride on the unrideable World Champion Bull, Bushwacker.
- 2015 PBR World Championship: He claimed his second title in 2015, solidifying his status as one of the greatest of all time.
- PBR World Finals Record: In 2009, Mauney became the first, and one of the few, riders to successfully cover all eight bulls at the PBR World Finals, a feat that came with a significant financial reward.
His ability to conquer bulls previously deemed unrideable, such as his 94.25-point ride on SweetPro's Bruiser, not only earned him massive prize money but also the legendary nickname, "The Dragon Slayer."
Endorsements and Sponsorships: The Off-Dirt Income Stream
While his prize money is substantial, a significant portion of Mauney's estimated $6-$8 million net worth comes from lucrative partnerships outside the arena. As one of the most recognizable and marketable figures in Western sports, his brand appeal is massive.
Unlike many athletes, Mauney’s image—tough, authentic, and fearless—resonated deeply with brands targeting the Western and action sports markets. His major endorsement deals include:
- Monster Energy: A long-time partner and a major sponsor of the PBR, this partnership has been a cornerstone of his off-dirt income for years.
- Wrangler: The iconic Western apparel brand is a natural fit, providing him with a stable, high-value sponsorship.
- YETI: Mauney has served as an ambassador for the premium cooler and outdoor gear company, capitalizing on his rugged, outdoor lifestyle image.
- Resistol and American Hat Company: Endorsements with major hat companies further cemented his status as a Western sports icon.
- B&W Trailer Hitches: A practical and prominent sponsorship that aligns with the logistics of the rodeo circuit.
It is estimated that these sponsorship deals contributed over $1 million to his total wealth throughout his career, providing a crucial financial buffer against the physical risks of his profession.
Life After the Ride: Mauney’s 2024 Coaching Salary and Future Wealth
Mauney's retirement from active competition in 2023 was not the end of his career, but a pivot that secured a new, stable income stream. In 2024, he officially transitioned into a coaching role, ensuring his net worth continues to grow.
He was named the inaugural head coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters, a new franchise in the PBR Team Series. This role involves leading the team through the 2024 season and beyond, a position that comes with a substantial professional salary and performance bonuses.
This coaching position is significant for his financial future for several reasons:
- Stability: It provides a consistent, high-end salary that does not depend on the physical risks of riding.
- Brand Value: It keeps him in the public eye and maintains the value of his personal brand for his existing endorsement deals.
- New Investments: With a stable income, Mauney can focus on his reported investments, which include real estate and cattle, diversifying his assets away from volatile sports income.
His continued presence in the PBR, even off the bull's back, confirms that J.B. Mauney is not just a retired athlete but a permanent fixture and business entity within the world of professional bull riding.
Frequently Asked Questions About J.B. Mauney’s Net Worth
How much did J.B. Mauney earn in his PBR career?
J.B. Mauney earned a record-breaking $7.4 million in career earnings from the Professional Bull Riders (PBR), making him the all-time money leader in the sport. His total earnings from PBR and other rodeo events exceed $7.6 million.
Is J.B. Mauney the richest bull rider?
Yes, J.B. Mauney is widely considered the wealthiest bull rider, primarily due to his PBR career earnings record of $7.4 million. While other riders have high net worths, Mauney holds the distinction of having the highest prize money total in the PBR.
Why did J.B. Mauney retire from bull riding?
J.B. Mauney retired from bull riding in 2023 after suffering a severe, career-ending injury. He broke his neck (specifically a fractured C3 vertebra) during a competition in the PRCA, leading to necessary spinal fusion surgery and his official retirement from competition.
What is J.B. Mauney doing in 2024?
In 2024, J.B. Mauney is the head coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters, a new team participating in the PBR Team Series. He is focused on mentoring the next generation of bull riders and maintaining his presence in the sport.
Did J.B. Mauney ride Bushwacker?
Yes, J.B. Mauney is famous for being one of the few riders to successfully ride the legendary three-time World Champion Bull, Bushwacker. His 92.75-point ride on Bushwacker in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2013 is considered one of the most iconic moments in PBR history.
