Exploring the Future of Bull Riding: John Crimber on Monster Energy's UNLEASHED Podcast
Recently, the 503rd episode of Monster Energy's UNLEASHED podcast showcased a special live interview with up-and-coming bull rider John Crimber, who is just 19 years old and hails from Decatur, Texas. This episode was recorded during a notable event by the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Hosted by the late Luke 'The Dingo' Trembath, alongside Danny Kass and Brittney Palmer, this episode is particularly poignant given Trembath’s recent passing earlier this year.
The episode features John Crimber’s journey back to competition after a two-week recovery from injuries. The young rider shares his excitement about re-entering the arena in pursuit of his goal to reclaim the World No. 1 ranking. Crimber’s return is not just a personal victory but a familial tradition, as he is coached by his father, the revered PBR icon, Paulo Crimber. He reveals the deep personal connection he shares with bull riding, stating, "Having him there with me and being on the highest stages for bull riding in the world where I always wanted to be is very special to me."
John Crimber's rise in the competitive world of bull riding has been nothing short of meteoric. In 2024, he was the top pick in the PBR Teams Expansion New Rider Draft, and he ended that season in second place at the PBR World Finals. Not only has he made headlines by becoming the youngest rider to surpass the $1 million prize money mark, but he has also swiftly moved up in the world rankings. After facing serious injuries just before PBR Salt Lake City, including fractures to his lumbar vertebrae, Crimber bounced back in two weeks, showcasing his determination and love for the sport.
The podcast episode provides valuable insight into what drives Crimber, particularly his father’s influence throughout his life. Crimber recounts how he started riding at just three years old, driven by a lifelong passion that was never forced upon him. In sharing stories of his childhood, he reflects on difficult times, particularly following his father's injury which led to his retirement from professional riding.
Despite the physical and mental challenges that come with bull riding, Crimber's dedication shines through. Expressing his mindset of resilience, he recalls a conversation with his physical therapist, who encouraged him to pursue his passion once more: "A million dollars isn't going to win itself, so I got to go out there and put in the work and come back as soon as possible."
Listeners of UNLEASHED are treated to more than just a conversation about sports; they gain a glimpse into the lifestyle and culture surrounding bull riding and the camaraderie that comes with it. Each episode delves into the lives of athletes pushing boundaries within their respective fields, fostering a strong sense of community among both fans and participants.
Regularly recorded at Monster Energy's headquarters, the podcast not only highlights rising stars like Crimber but also pays homage to the vibrant world of action sports, music, and pop culture. Although Monster Energy is widely recognized for its energy drinks, the UNLEASHED podcast serves as an engaging platform for athletes to narrate their most compelling stories.
To catch the full conversation with John Crimber, listeners are encouraged to tune into Episode 503 of UNLEASHED, available on platforms such as Spotify, iTunes, and YouTube. The podcast continues to be a beacon for those passionate about high-energy sports and the lifestyles that accompany them. Tune in today to experience the electrifying journey of John Crimber as he prepares for what lies ahead in the exciting world of bull riding.