The rivalry between Ken Roczen and Cooper Webb has been one of the most talked-about storylines in Supercross over the past few seasons. With both riders known for their fierce competitiveness, sparks have flown both on and off the track. But things just took a more intense turn after Roczen responded to Webb’s recent comments in a way that has the motocross world buzzing.
In an exclusive interview with us, Ken Roczen didn’t hold back when addressing Webb’s criticism of him. “I think he’s scared of me,” Roczen said bluntly. “He’s just fueling the fire, to be honest. If he keeps talking, it’s only going to make things worse for him. He knows what I’m capable of, and he’s worried. I can see it in the way he acts on the track, and now I’m starting to see it in the way he talks off it.”
The Spark That Ignited the Fire
It all began after a tense race in the latest Supercross season, where Roczen and Webb were both battling for position in the top spots. Webb, known for his trash-talking and mind games, made several pointed comments about Roczen’s performance, suggesting that the German rider wasn’t quite living up to his potential.
“I think Cooper just loves to talk, and not always in the best way,” Roczen explained. “It’s clear he’s trying to get inside my head. But I’ve been in this game long enough to know how to handle stuff like that. I’ve dealt with way worse.”
Roczen’s response came after Webb’s comments hit social media and even made their way into the press. Webb had said in an interview that while Roczen had a lot of skill, his inconsistency on the track left something to be desired. “He’s fast, no doubt about it, but I’m not worried about him,” Webb said. “He can’t keep it together when the pressure’s on.”
Roczen’s Response: “I’m Not Here to Play Games”
When we asked Roczen about Webb’s comments, his tone was direct and filled with confidence. “I’m not here to play games. I don’t need to say a lot of words to show what I can do on the bike. Cooper talks a lot, but at the end of the day, it’s all about results. And I think he knows that I’m capable of beating him when I’m on my game. I don’t think he wants that to happen, so he tries to make excuses and throw off my focus.”
He went on to explain that Webb’s approach to racing—constantly trying to get inside his competitors’ heads—was part of the mind games that he believes Webb is relying on because he knows he can’t beat Roczen outright when they’re both at their best. “I’ve been in this sport long enough to understand mental games, but I’ve also learned to block them out. I’ve got my own mental game going, and it’s strong. Cooper can try to talk all he wants, but I know the truth, and so does he,” Roczen said with a hint of smirk.
“I’m Focused on the Championship”
Ken Roczen’s mentality heading into the remainder of the season is clear: focus on the championship and not the distractions. “I’m focused on one thing and one thing only, and that’s winning. All these mind games and words? They don’t matter to me. It’s all about the track. If I’m healthy and I’m focused, nobody’s going to beat me.”
When pressed further about whether he’s worried about the growing rivalry with Webb affecting his focus, Roczen didn’t flinch. “Look, I’ve had rivals throughout my career. I’ve been through worse. It’s part of the sport. But I’m not worried about Cooper or anyone else. I’m focused on getting my bike dialed in, staying healthy, and riding my best. If I do that, I’ll beat anyone who stands in front of me, no matter who they are.”
The Fire That’s Fueling This Rivalry
Roczen’s fiery response to Webb’s comments has only added fuel to an already heated rivalry. The two riders have always had a competitive relationship, but this exchange is one of the most personal and public moments in their history.
“I know how Cooper operates,” Roczen continued. “He thrives on getting under people’s skin, trying to throw them off their game. But when it comes down to it, I don’t need to engage in his games. I don’t need to entertain that. The more he talks, the more I feel like I’m in his head. I think deep down, he knows that I’m capable of beating him and taking that title from him, and that scares him.”
Roczen made it clear that he respects Webb’s riding ability but that he won’t let his rival’s words affect him. “Cooper’s a good rider, don’t get me wrong. He’s had his moments, and he’s a former champion for a reason. But that doesn’t mean I’m afraid of him. I’ve been through way tougher battles in my career and overcome a lot more adversity. I’ve been knocked down and gotten back up, so trust me when I say this—Cooper Webb doesn’t scare me.”
What’s Next in the Rivalry?
As the Supercross season progresses, all eyes are on the next race where Roczen and Webb will inevitably clash again. With both riders hungry for the title, it’s clear that the rivalry is only going to intensify. Fans can expect fireworks every time these two hit the track together.
“Let’s see who comes out on top at the end of the season,” Roczen said, before giving a sharp, confident smile. “I’m ready. And I know Cooper is, too. But at the end of the day, it’s not about who talks the most, it’s about who crosses that finish line first.”
Conclusion
Ken Roczen’s response to Cooper Webb’s recent comments shows that the German rider is not backing down from his rival. With the championship on the line and the pressure mounting, it’s clear that this rivalry is only going to get more intense. As Roczen said, “If Cooper keeps fueling the fire, it’s only going to make things harder for him.” And based on his words, it’s safe to say that Ken Roczen is more than ready for the challenge ahead.
Stay tuned—this rivalry is far from over.
