It’s no secret that motocross is a sport where confidence is key, but sometimes, things get personal. Recently, I’ve had to listen to all sorts of chatter about Haiden Deegan and his rise in the sport. People are quick to crown him the next big thing, but I’m not having it. Let’s set the record straight: I’ve got more than he ever will, and I’m not talking about just results.
I’ve been in this game for over a decade. I’ve fought through injuries, battled for championships, and earned my place on the podium every single season. Haiden is talented, no doubt about that. But people forget that this sport isn’t just about how fast you can go or how many Instagram followers you have. It’s about heart, grit, and proving you can handle everything that comes your way, race after race.
I get it. Haiden’s got the hype. He’s got the social media game, the sponsors, and the fanbase. But you know what he doesn’t have? A career that’s seen the highs and lows that I’ve experienced. I’ve been through more adversity in a few years than some riders will face in their entire careers, and I keep coming back. That’s something you can’t just buy. You don’t get to skip the hard part.
Let’s be clear, I’m not here to bash Haiden personally. He’s a good kid, and he’s got a future ahead of him. But the narrative around him right now feels a bit premature. There are too many people out there acting like he’s already on my level or surpassing what I’ve done. I’ve earned my place in the sport, and no amount of hype is going to change that.
I’m not some rookie trying to make a name for myself anymore. I’ve been battling with the best for years. I’ve got more than just raw talent—I’ve got experience, determination, and a mindset that’s been forged in some of the toughest races the sport has ever seen. When the gate drops, and the pressure is on, that’s where I shine. It’s not just about who can set the fastest lap time in practice or who has the loudest fans; it’s about who can dig deep when it really counts.
As for the comparisons, they’re flattering but misplaced. I’m not worried about the next guy coming up. I’m focused on what I bring to the table, and I know my worth. Haiden has a lot to prove still, and it’s going to take more than just a few good rides to solidify his place in this sport. There’s a reason I’m still here after all these years, and it’s not just because of talent—it’s because I’ve been through the grind, and I’ve still got more in the tank than people realize.
I’ll be the first to say that Haiden’s got a lot of potential, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. I’ve been doing this long enough to know what it takes to be truly great, and the journey isn’t as easy as some might think. So, while everyone’s busy talking about the “next big thing,” I’m focused on making sure I stay at the top of my game. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about who has the most hype or the flashiest Instagram feed—it’s about who can back it up on the track, race after race. And trust me, I’ve got more than enough to prove that I’m not going anywhere anytime soon.
