Bull Riding Champion J.B. Mauney Retires After Breaking Neck in Accident: ‘Not the Way I Wanted to Go’
Bull riding champion J.B. Mauney announced Tuesday that he decided to retire after breaking his neck during a recent competition.
Mauney, 36, shared the news on Instagram, writing, “All I can say is it’s been quite a party!”
He explained that he underwent surgery after being thrown from a bull during the PRCA ProRodeo event in Lewiston, Idaho.
Mauney revealed that doctors operated on his neck, “which required a rod/plates/screws and the removal of a disc,” and he thanked the medical staff at St. Joseph Regional for their work healing him up.
“Surgery went great and I would like to thank everyone at @stjosephregionalmedical for taking care of me,” he wrote.
Despite the successful surgery, Mauney confirmed that the injury has forced him to retire from riding.
“Unfortunately with the surgery it ended my bullriding career, just wanted to let everyone know that I’m ok and now on the road to recovery,” he wrote.
According to The Llanelli Herald, Mauney won two World championships in 2013 and 2015 and holds the record for most televised wins in the Professional Bull Riders league (PBR), tied with Justin McBride.
PBR announcer Rafael Vilella honored Mauney on social media after the rider announced his retirement.
Vilella shared a photo with Mauney and wrote, “JB Mauney retires, but his legacy will never be forgotten. You are the legend,” in a caption translated into English.
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The official PBR League account commented on Mauney’s announcement, writing, “The sport of bull riding will never be the same. Thank you for the countless memories and unforgettable moments!”
Rider Cody Nance wrote, “Been great riding all these years with ya champ. You’ve inspired me and many others. I’m blessed for it. Enjoy your retirement and your beautiful family bro. It’s been a pleasure.”