The Abu Dhabi Showdown was one of those moments that I’ll remember for a long time. It was an incredible experience—not just because of the event itself, but because of the people I got to share it with, especially Eli Tomac. To have the chance to line up against a rider like Eli, in front of the fans in Abu Dhabi, it felt special. It was surreal, honestly. We’ve raced against each other for years, and we’ve both been through our ups and downs, so to be part of something like this, where we get to race in such a unique setting, it was a moment to appreciate.
The crowd was electric, and the atmosphere in the stadium was unlike anything I’ve ever felt. It’s a different kind of energy when you’re racing in a place like that. The passion from the fans was amazing, and you could just feel the excitement in the air. I think this kind of international race really shows the global appeal of motocross, and to be able to take part in it—it’s not just about the race, it’s about being part of something bigger than just the results.
Eli and I have been through some tough battles over the years, and I think that’s why this event stood out so much. There’s always a lot of respect between us as competitors. We both know how much work goes into being at the top of this sport, and while we’re rivals when the gate drops, there’s a mutual respect that runs deep. It was cool to share the stage with him in a place like Abu Dhabi. It’s not every day you get to race against a guy who’s been one of the best in the world for so long.
We’ve both had our share of challenges, and it’s been a journey to get to this point. For me, it’s been a real test of my resilience, trying to find that balance between fighting through injuries and getting back to the level I know I can ride at. But moments like the Abu Dhabi Showdown remind me why I keep pushing. The sport is full of highs and lows, but the highs, especially when you’re doing something this unique, are the moments that make it all worth it.
And beyond the race itself, there’s something about the camaraderie you develop with other riders. You spend so much time together, traveling the world, racing, and going through everything that comes with being at the top of the sport. It’s a brotherhood, in a way, and having guys like Eli alongside you on the track is something that makes the whole experience so much more rewarding.
At the end of the day, I’m really grateful for moments like the Abu Dhabi Showdown. It was a special race, in a special place, with a special group of people. To have a chance to race alongside someone like Eli, in front of those passionate fans, and to be part of something so unique—it’s a memory I’ll carry with me for a long time.
