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Woopaa
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Woopaa
BreedAmerican Bucking Bull
SexBull
Born (2017-03-09) March 9, 2017 (age 8)
NationalityUnited States
Years active2019 - 2023
OwnersLarry Barker, Laramie Wilson
ParentsDances with Gravy (sire)
BB 319 (dam)
Weight1600 lb (730 kg)
AppearanceRed
Awards2020 ABBI World Champion Classic Bull
2021 PBR World Champion Bull
2021 PBR Bull of the World Finals

Woopaa #124 (born March 9, 2017) is an American retired bucking bull. He is the 2021 Professional Bull Riders (PBR) World Champion Bull.

In 2023, Woopaa was ranked No. 7 on the list of the top 30 bulls in PBR history.[1]

Background

[edit]

Woopaa was born on March 9, 2017.[2] He is owned by Larry Barker of Barker Bulls and stock contractor Laramie Wilson of Hookin' W Ranch. He is a red-colored bull, whose brand is 124.[3] His sire is Dances with Gravy,[4] and his dam is BB 319.[3] Woopaa is named for his owner Larry Barker's friend, J.P. Lewis, who used to yell "Woopaa!” frequently. Lewis died from cancer in 2017.[2]

Career

[edit]

Woopaa competed on the PBR circuit from 2020 to 2023. He won the World Champion Bull title in 2021.[5] On April 2, 2022, Woopaa was ranked first in the world standings. His riding streak was -1, and his average bull score was 45.91. He had bucked in 25 events. His buckoff percentage was 58, and his average rider score was 40.40. His average buckoff time was 2.15 seconds. He had 21 45-points or higher rides.[6]

Season 2020

[edit]

These are Woopaa's outs in the PBR in the 2020 season:

Woopaa bucked off Ty Wainwright for a score of 44 in 2.28 seconds at a PBR Touring Pro Division event in San Antonio, Texas. He then bucked off Joao Henrique Lucas in 3.2 seconds for a score of 43 points at a PBR Velocity Tour event in Memphis, Tennessee. He then bucked off Taylor Toves in 5.02 seconds for a score of 42.75 points at a PBR Unleash the Beast Series event in Little Rock, Arkansas. Woopaa next bucked off Rafael Henrique Dos Santos in 0 seconds for a score of 44.25 at an Unleash the Beast Series event in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He then bucked off Marcus Mast in 2.61 seconds for a score of 46 points at the Velocity Tour Finals in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. José Vitor Leme then rode Woopaa for a very high ride score of 95.75 points at the PBR World Finals in Arlington, Texas. The bull for his part scored 46 points in this out.[5] Woopaa won the 2020 American Bucking Bull (ABBI) Classic Champion title.[7]

Season 2021

[edit]

These are the highlights from the PBR Unleash the Beast (UTB) Premier Series for the 2021 season. The world champion bull race required eight outs in the regular season and two in the world finals. The highest average bull score from these was the winner.

On February 27, José Vitor Leme rode Woopaa for 94.75 points in Fort Worth, Texas.[8][9] On April 20, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in the 15/15 Bucking Battle, Woopaa had one of his 47 or higher point outs, earning a 47.25 point score when he bucked off Keyshawn Whitehorse in 2.14 seconds. The out brought him ahead of Chiseled into the No. 1 spot in the world champion bull race.[10]

On May 3, in Omaha, Nebraska, during the 15/15 Bucking Battle, Woopaa earned his fourth 46-point and over score by bucking off Cody Nance in 3.88 seconds. Woopaa was scored 46 points, giving him a 46.45 point average on 5 outs so far this season. He had five buckoffs in a row.[11] On July 27, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Boudreaux Campbell rode Woopaa for a very high score of 95.25 points. Woopaa was the high-marked bull of the event, as he was scored a 46.5 bull score. He led the world champion bull race with a 46.46 point average.[12]

On July 31, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the 15/15 Bucking Battle, an important record was broken. The reigning World Champion bull rider José Vitor Leme and Woopaa, the No. 1 PBR bucking bull were marked a very high ride score of 97.75, a new record for highest score in PBR history. The PBR Premier Series' previous highest-marked score was 96.5, which had been achieved four times. The last time was 1997 PBR World Champion Michael Gaffney for 96.5 points in Nampa, Idaho, riding 3-time world champion bull Little Yellow Jacket in 2004. Leme proffered that it was one of the best days of his career. He also noted that it was the same arena (BOK Center) where future 2-time PBR world champion J.B.Mauney rode Bushwacker for 95.25 points in 2013. Leme was marked 49.75 points for his part in the ride score; almost perfect with 50 points being the maximum; a record high score. Woopaa's score of 48 is the 10th best on the tour. Leme also tied 1999 PBR world champion Cody Hart for most 90-point rides for one season, with 16. This ride was featured in Sports Illustrated magazine.[13][14]

On August 15, in Little Rock, Arkansas, in the 15/15 Bucking Battle, Boudreaux Campbell rode Woopaa for 93.75 points, after having rode the bull twice previously for over 95 points, and won the 15/15 Bucking Battle.[15] On August 29, in Fort Worth, Texas, Paulo Lima made a qualified ride on Woopaa for a score of 95.25 points. Woopaa was scored over 47 points. Woopaa had been marked 47 points four times or higher. He continued to lead the world champion bull race. He was the only multiple 47-point bull this season. Other bulls with a 47-point score were Chiseled and Ridin' Solo.[16]

On October 3, in San Antonio, Texas, Woopaa and Dalton Kasel made a qualified ride of 96.75 points, for the second-highest scored ride in PBR history. Woopa was scored 47.25 points.[17] On October 19, the PBR had completed the first list of bucking bull qualifiers. PBR Livestock Director Cody Lambert had chosen 146 bulls for the World Finals. The qualifiers had to have had eight regular season outs and two outs from the World Finals. The No. 1 bull, Woopaa had a score average of 46.94 in his eight best outs. Also, Woopaa was ridden in 7 of 10 outs on the UTB season. His average ride score was 95.57 points. The second-highest score average went to Chiseled who appeared to be serious competition for Woopaa. with an average of 46.38.[18]

Woopaa was the number one bull heading into the World Finals. He had a world average score of 46.94 bull points. This season Woopaa monopolized the bull standings. When there were only three events left to go, it would have to take some very high scores for the contenders and some very low scores for Woopaa for anyone to overtake him. According to Wilson, his bull would carry that 46.94 point score into the finals because San Antonio was his last event until the World Finals. "On paper, it looks like Woopaa is running away with it," Laramie shared. "But I can't rest easy because H.D. Page and Chiseled are right there behind us, and they never give up. I really think it's going to come down to who we draw at the Finals. Woopaa looks better and scores higher the longer the rider stays on board. Chiseled seems to score high when he dumps a rider off quickly. We'll just have to see how it all comes down!" Chiseled was in 2nd place. Chisled was the 2019 ABBI Classic Champion, the Reserve PBR World Champion Bull, and the PRCA Bucking Bull of the Year. HD Page said it was Woopaa's race to lose. Even if Woopaa had a mediocre out, he would still win; he was that far ahead.[19]

PBR World Finals

[edit]

These are the results from the PBR UTB World Finals.

This year, the PBR World Finals took place at T-Mobile Arena, in Las Vegas, Nevada. For his first of two finals outs, Woopaa bucked off Daylon Swearingen in 3 seconds for 45 points during Round 2.[2] Chiseled had Junior Patrick Souza in 4.91 seconds for a bull score of 46 points. This brought Chiseled a bit closer to Woopaa and still alive for the championship.[20] On the final day, Sunday, November 7, Woopaa needed 43 points or better in his second out to outdo Chiseled and win the PBR World Finals.[2]

Woopaa and 2020-2021 PBR World Champion José Vitor Leme were matched up for Woopaa's final out. Leme was in pain due to some injuries, but Woopaa's owner Barker was on the back of the bucking chutes, and he whispered to Leme, "Let's go break the record". As he grinned, Leme smiled back.[7] They broke another record by scoring 98.75 points, which is now the highest ride score in PBR history. Woopaa's bull score was a very high one of 48.75 points, the second highest bull score in history. He also won the Bull of the PBR World Finals title. Leme became the first rider in PBR history to score a perfect ride score of 50 points. Leme predicted the outcome, and named Woopaa one of the greatest bulls in history.[2][7][21] They beat their previous record. In Tulsa, 100 days earlier, they had set a record of 97.75 points.[20]

Woopaa was awarded $100,000 for World Champion Bull, $25,000 for Bull of the World Finals, and $25,000 for being ranked No. 1 bull of the regular season. He finished this season with a 46.93-point average. He came out 0.58 points over Chiseled, who became the Reserve World Champion. Chiseled had now been second place two seasons in a row. During this season, there were nine bull scores of 47 points or more. Woopaa scored 47 or higher six times. Of those six times, two of them were over 48 points. PBR Livestock Director, Cody Lambert said that "he just shows up and does what he has to do".[2][7] Woopaa ended the season number one with a world bull average score of 46.93 points. Chiseled finished second with world average bull score of 46.35 points. Woopaa's score of 48.75 set a record; for any bull ridden eight seconds, it is the highest score. Woopaa had 12 outs this season. He was ridden eight times. His average ride score was 95.94. His lowest score was 45 bull points. Cody Lambert summed up his athlete abilities: "You can stack any bull of an era up and Woopaa would best them in many ways."[20]

On December 6, Woopaa lost two of his world champion bull contenders for the 2021 race. H.D. Page announced the retirement of Sweet Pro's Bruiser earlier this year, and Chad Berger announced the retirement of Smooth Operator.[22]

Season 2022

[edit]

Unleash the Beast Series

[edit]

These are the highlights from the 2022 season of the UTB. The 2022 World Champion Bull would have the top six regular season outs and two outs from the World Finals. The winner would have the highest average bull score. This differed from the 10 outs required in previous seasons due to the shortened season.[23]

On January 24, in Duluth, Georgia, Woopaa put up a 46.5 point score for his first appearance of the new season by throwing off Chase Dougherty in 3.21 seconds.[24][25] On February 14, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Woopaa bucked off Austin Richardson for 46.75 points in 4.14 seconds. He was rebounding from a subpar score of 44 during the 15/15 bucking battle the previous night.[26][23]

During February 21, comparisons were drawn between Woopaa and Ridin' Solo regarding the World Champion Bull race. Woopaa won the match two years ago for the ABBI World Champion Classic Bull. Ridin' Solo had competed at a higher level recently, scoring higher bull scores such that the two are closer in the race; owner Cord McCoy had Ridin' Solo ready to challenge Woopaa.[27]

On February 26, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Woopaa was ridden by Manoelito de Souza, Jr. for a score of 92.75 points.[28] On March 13, in Glendale, Arizona, Woopaa managed to throw off a determined Derek Kolbaba at 6.99 seconds. Woopaa was marked 46.5 points for this buckoff.[29] On March 14, in Glendale, Arizona, Woopaa scored 46.5 points, which made him even with Ridin' Solo.[30]

On March 25, during the 15/15 Bucking Battle in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Woopaa bucked off Mason Taylor in 2.89 seconds, and received 45.5 points. Two days later on March 27, Woopaa was successfully ridden by João Ricardo Vieira in the Championship Round to win the regular Albuquerque event. Vieira was awarded a 94.25 rider score, while Woopaa was awarded a 45.75 bull score.[31]

On April 3, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Woopaa took the lead of the world champion bull race back in his favor. He bucked off Daylon Swearingen in 5.85 seconds in the 15/15 Bucking Battle. The bull, however, seemed to almost stop at the end of the out. Stock contractor Laramie Wilson said he would rest him so he would be fresh for his next event. That would be in Tulsa, Oklahoma on April 15–16. Woopaa was 7-2 in outs at this point. He was also boasting a 46.17 point average, and was only 0.04 points ahead of Ridin' Solo. Woopaa had bucked four of five of the past events, so Wilson felt a rest was due.[32]

On April 15 weekend, Woopaa was in attendance at the Tulsa, Oklahoma UTB event. His owners bucked him twice this weekend. Laramie Wilson stated that it was due to Ridin' Solo beating them, and not wanting to go to the final two UTB regular season events of the year in Nampa, Idaho, and Billings, Montana. Austin Richardson drew Woopaa in Round 1 and rode Woopaa for 94.5 points. Woopaa was scored 46.25 bull points.[33] In the Championship Round in Tulsa, Dalton Kasel was rematched with Woopaa. The previous year, Kasel won the UTB event in San Antonio, Texas, on Woopaa by scoring 96.75, the third-highest score in PBR history. However, the rematch in Tulsa went Woopaa's way, bucking off Kasel in 7.20 and receiving a 46-point bull score. Woopaa's World Champion Bull race average increased to 46.25 points. He now lead Ridin' Solo by 0.04 points.[34]

On April 18, Woopaa and Ridin' Solo were separated by .08 points in the world champion bull race. Woopaa was slightly ahead in the lead. This was after the weekend event at the PBR Express Ranches Classic. Lambert commented that the two were the current favorites for the race. "I really like both of those bulls. I think Woopaa is better because he doesn't mess up as much. Cord (McCoy) has done such a good job with Ridin' Solo. He has gotten the most out of him. Laramie has done a great job with Woopaa, but Cord took one that couldn't get out of the chute." Woopaa has a 46.29 world champion bull average which put him ahead of Ridin' Solo in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His two outs there allowed him to drop two scores from his average. Those outs were the ones previously outlined herein with Austin Richardson and Dalton Kasel. Wilson planned to rest Woopaa until the finals. McCoy planned to bring Ridin' Solo to Billings, Montana, in two weeks.[35]

PBR World Finals

[edit]

After many years of taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, during the autumn, the PBR World Finals moved to Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, during the spring.[36] Woopaa and Ridin' Solo headed into these World Finals tied for the lead. They split the regular-season bonus with Ridin' Solo's owners. The world champion race came down to the top six regular season outs and two finals outs.[37]

Round 2 on May 14 was a draft round, meaning riders got to choose their bulls by the order of which they placed in Round 1. After placing high in the first round, Dalton Kasel chose to ride Woopaa again. The bull would buck him off, but would only score 43.25 points; up to that point, his lowest bull score of the year. Ridin' Solo would be successfully ridden by Josh Frost, scoring 92.75 points, while the bull was given 45 points. At this point, Ridin' Solo retook the lead for the PBR World Champion Bull race, but by just 0.03 points.[36]

During Round 4 on May 19, Woopaa was matched against 2002 PBR world champion Ednei Caminhas, bucking him off in 3.86 seconds, and rebounded with a 45.25 bull score. However, Ridin' Solo bucked off Ezekiel Mitchell in 3.35 seconds, and received a 47-point bull score in the process. Ridin' Solo had extended his lead to 0.44 points.[38]

During the World Finals' Championship Round on May 22, Woopaa bucked off Luciano de Castro. However, the bull got fouled during the ride and performed poorly. He received 41.75 points, the lowest bull score of his career. As a result, Castro was awarded a re-ride and Woopaa's chance of winning a second consecutive world championship was ended. Ridin' Solo bucked off João Ricardo Vieira in 4.80 seconds, and received a 47-point score, winning the 2022 PBR World Champion Bull title. He beat Woopaa by 0.69 points.[39]

Team Series

[edit]

On September 18, Woopaa was ridden by Chase Outlaw of the Oklahoma Freedom for 94.50 points during the final ride of the Freedom's hometown event, Freedom Fest, in Oklahoma City. The team had already won the event, but Outlaw's ride on Woopaa put an exclamation point on their hometown victory. Woopaa for his part was marked 46 points on the out.[40]

Season 2023

[edit]

Unleash the Beast Series

[edit]

On December 4, 2022, Woopaa was successfully ridden by 2016 PBR world champion Cooper Davis for 91.75 points in the Championship Round to win the second event of the 2023 UTB season in St. Louis, Missouri. The bull was marked 44.50 points for this out.[41]

On December 10, 2022, Woopaa was ridden by Sandro Batista in the Championship Round of the third event of the 2023 UTB season in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for 91.25 points, while Woopaa was given 44.25 points.[42]

On January 29, 2023, Woopaa was ridden by Thiago Salgado in the Championship Round of the ninth event of the 2023 UTB season in Indianapolis, Indiana, for 88.25 points. Woopaa was given 43 bull points.

On March 12, 2023, Woopaa was rematched with José Vitor Leme in the Championship Round of the fifteenth event of the 2023 UTB season in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He bucked him off in 6.39 seconds and received a bull score of 45.5 points.[43] Altogether, Woopaa and Leme matched up four times, and this fourth rematch was the only time in which the bull bucked off the rider. This would also turn out to be the final out of Woopaa's bucking career.

Retirement

[edit]

On March 20, 2023, it was announced by Woopaa's owners that he was officially retired and would now stand at stud for breeding with cows. At the age of six, he was retired relatively early compared to other superstar bucking bulls.[44]

Career summary

[edit]

On October 13, 2021, a comparison was made between Woopaa and Bushwacker by the PBR. His record breaking bull score in Tulsa for 97.75 pushed his season average bull score to 46.68 points. That would be just under Bushwacker's average of 46.86 when winning his second world title.[45]

Awards

[edit]
  • 2020 ABBI World Champion Classic Bull
  • 2021 PBR World Champion Bull
  • 2021 PBR Bull of the World Finals

Achievements

[edit]

Woopaa has lifetime earnings over $350,000. He has the highest regular season average in history. He has the highest ride score in PBR history with José Vitor Leme of 98.75 points, the second-highest ride score in PBR history with José Vitor Leme of 97.75 points, and the third-highest ride score in PBR history with Dalton Kasel of 96.75 points.

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Woopaa

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Woopaa is an American renowned for his dominance in professional , particularly within the (PBR) circuit, where he earned the title of 2021 YETI World Champion Bull after setting multiple records for bull scores and combined rider-bull performances. Born on March 9, 2017 and owned by Barker Bulls in partnership with Hookin' W Ranch, Woopaa was named in honor of Larry Barker's late friend JP Lewis, a who passed away from cancer, and the bull quickly rose to prominence upon his debut in 2020. Over his career spanning approximately 3.5 years, he competed in 38 outs, bucking off riders 58% of the time and achieving 27 scores of 45 points or higher, while being ridden 16 times—15 of which resulted in combined scores exceeding 90 points. Woopaa's most notable achievements include his 2020 American Bucking Bull Inc. (ABBI) Classic World Championship, where he clinched the title with a 46.75-point score at the finals, earning $150,000 and the Bull of the Finals honor. In 2021, he posted the highest regular-season average bull score in PBR history at 46.93 points and was named YETI Bull of the Event eight times, culminating in his World Champion Bull title with lifetime earnings surpassing $350,000. His athletic prowess was immortalized in record-breaking rides, including a 98.75-point combined score with Brazilian rider José Vitor Leme at the 2021 PBR World Finals in Las Vegas—the highest in PBR history—and prior marks of 97.75 and 96.75 points in Tulsa and San Antonio, respectively. These performances not only propelled Leme to his 2021 World Championship but also highlighted Woopaa's explosive style, characterized by powerful spins and high kicks that tested even elite riders. Following a gradual decline in performance during the 2022-2023 season—where he was ridden more frequently and scored below 92.5 points for the first time—Woopaa was retired on March 20, 2023 by his owners to preserve his legacy. Post-retirement, his influence endures through cultural depictions, such as the children's book Woopaa!: World Champion Bucking Bull, which celebrates his journey and earned a 2023 Will Rogers Medallion Award (gold medal) in the Young Readers Division. Woopaa's career exemplifies the blend of genetics, training, and spirit that defines top-tier bucking stock, leaving an indelible mark on PBR history as one of the sport's most legendary animals.

Background

Birth and Pedigree

Woopaa, a red American branded #124, was born on March 9, 2017, in the United States. He stands as a prime example of selectively bred stock, weighing approximately 1,600 pounds in his prime, which is typical for elite bulls capable of explosive athleticism. This physical stature, combining muscular build with agility, positions him ideally for the demands of professional competition. His pedigree traces directly to proven lines, with his sire being 3Z Dances with Gravy (out of 33U ) and his dam (a daughter of Yellowhair). Dances with Gravy, a notable money-earning bull raised by D&H Bulls, descends from influential sires such as 325 Hot Stuff, 36 Backlash, K827 Wolfdancer, and Western Wishes—bloodlines renowned for instilling powerful kicking action, tight spins, and sustained intensity in offspring. These genetic traits enhance prowess by promoting explosive power from the hindquarters and quick directional changes, key to high-scoring performances in events. The dam's Yellowhair lineage further bolsters agility and endurance, contributing to Woopaa's reputation for consistent, high-marked outings. During his early development, Woopaa was raised and initially trained at the Barker Bulls facility in , where young bulls typically begin exhibiting natural bucking behaviors around two to three years of age through play and structured introduction to chutes. This phase focused on physical growth and temperament assessment without formal competition pressure, allowing him to mature into his prime frame. He entered his first competitive events as a prospect in 2018 at American Bucking Bull Inc. (ABBI) events, including placing fourth at the ABBI Finals in , honing his innate abilities before ascending to elite circuits.

Ownership and Naming

Woopaa is co-owned by Barker of Barker Bulls in , and Laramie Wilson of Hookin' W Ranch in Rhome, Texas. Barker, who has raised bucking bulls as a for over 15 years, acquired Woopaa through his breeding program and decided to retain ownership due to the bull's promising qualities, rather than selling him as was typical for his stock. The 's name, Woopaa, carries deep personal significance as a to J.P. Lewis, Barker's lifelong from , who passed away from cancer on September 8, 2017. Lewis, known for his vibrant and energetic personality, frequently used "woopaa" as a celebratory , often yelling it while running around in excitement during social gatherings or events with Barker, with whom he shared a spanning more than 30 years. At Lewis's memorial service, his wife Tanya asked Barker to name a in her husband's honor; Barker agreed but waited several years to find a suitable animal, ultimately bestowing the name on this red-colored bull—born just six months before Lewis's death—in January 2021, capturing the essence of his friend's joyful spirit rather than using his initials, which Barker felt would not suit broadcast purposes. Under Barker's initial care, Woopaa was raised on the Barker Bulls , where he matured as a yearling prospect, achieving early recognition by placing fourth at the American Bucking Bull Inc. (ABBI) Finals in in 2018 before returning to Las Cruces for further development. When Woopaa was around three years old in , Barker partnered with Wilson to prepare the bull for competition; Hookin' W took on the responsibility of hauling and conditioning Woopaa, providing specialized care that honed his athletic potential over the subsequent year and facilitated his entry into major events.

Professional Career

2020 Season

Woopaa made his professional debut in 2020, entering the competitive circuit under the ownership of Barker Bulls and quickly gaining attention in the American Bucking Bull Inc. (ABBI) events. As a three-year-old , he showcased explosive power and athleticism from the outset, with a style characterized by high kicks, tight spins, and rapid direction changes that challenged riders and elevated scores. This debut year marked his transition from development to high-stakes competition, where he competed in qualified ABBI events, building momentum toward the season's pinnacle. Throughout the 2020 season, Woopaa's performances in the ABBI circuit highlighted his dominance, culminating in exceptional showings at the ABBI World Finals in . He secured the 2020 ABBI World Champion Classic Bull title, determined by the highest average bull score across qualified season outs, earning his owners a substantial bonus. Additionally, his efforts in the finals earned him the ABBI World Finals Classic Champion designation and of the Finals honor, with a combined score of 185.60 points over two qualified outs, including a standout 93.40 marking in one round. These achievements underscored his consistency, as he posted strong bull scores that reflected his ability to deliver challenging, high-impact rides. A pivotal moment came during his initial exposure to the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) tour at the 2020 PBR World Finals in , where Woopaa drew Brazilian rider in Round 3. Leme covered the bull for a career-best 95.75 points—comprising a near-perfect rider score of 49 and a bull score of 46.75 for Woopaa—propelling Leme to the 2020 PBR World Championship. Woopaa's "monstrous out," featuring explosive forward drive followed by powerful rear-end elevation, directly contributed to the ride's elite scoring and simultaneously clinched his ABBI accolades. In ABBI events that season, Woopaa maintained a formidable buck-off rate, with riders struggling against his speed and unpredictability, while his average bull scores provided critical context for his run—exemplified by the 46.75 peak that set a benchmark for division excellence. This debut performance not only established Woopaa as a rising star but also introduced his prowess to broader audiences through the PBR crossover.

2021 Season

In 2021, Woopaa fully transitioned to (PBR) events, competing exclusively in the premier Unleash the Beast Series after his standout performance in the American Bucking Bull Inc. (ABBI) circuit the previous year. This shift marked his emergence as a dominant force, with 12 outs across the season, including eight successful rides that produced an average rider score of 95.94 points. Woopaa's buck-off percentage stood at 33%, reflecting his elite athleticism while still allowing high-impact performances when ridden. Woopaa set multiple records during the season, highlighted by three of the highest-scoring rides in PBR history. On July 31 in , he bucked for a 48-point score, contributing to Leme's league-record 97.75-point ride. Later, on October 3 in , , Woopaa powered Dalton Kasel to a 96.75-point ride in the championship round of the PBR U.S. Border Patrol Invitational, securing Kasel's event victory and marking the second-highest score ever at that point. These outings exemplified Woopaa's consistency, as he accounted for six of the season's nine scores of 47 points or higher, including the two exceeding 48 points. At the 2021 PBR World Finals in , Woopaa delivered pivotal performances across rounds that influenced the event's outcomes. In Round 2, he earned a 45-point mark for bucking off Daylon Swearingen in 3 seconds, maintaining momentum in the championship race. In the championship round, Woopaa achieved a 48.75-point score—the third-highest in PBR history and the highest ever at the World Finals—propelling Leme to a record-shattering 98.75-point ride and clinching Leme's first world title. This effort also earned Woopaa the Bull of the Finals honor. Woopaa capped the year by winning the 2021 YETI PBR World Champion Bull title, boasting a world average score of 46.93 points—0.58 ahead of runner-up Chiseled. His season-long dominance, including leading the regular-season standings, solidified his status as the top , with earnings of $150,000 from the championship and related bonuses.

2022 Season

In 2022, Woopaa, the defending World Champion Bull from the previous season, maintained his elite status by competing extensively in the PBR Unleash the Beast Series, appearing in 11 events across the regular season, and making two outings in the inaugural PBR Team Series. Building on the high expectations from his 2021 title, Woopaa's consistent power helped him enter the PBR World Finals tied with atop the World Champion Bull standings, each with an average bull score exceeding 45 points. Key matchups highlighted Woopaa's competitiveness, as he finished second overall in the YETI World Champion Bull race to Ridin' Solo, who edged him out by a narrow margin after superior Finals performances. Notable outs included a 46.75-point buckoff of Austin Richardson in 4.14 seconds at the PBR Unleash the Beast event in Oklahoma City on February 12, where Woopaa's explosive upward kick and rapid spin dislodged the rider early, earning him event bull-of-the-event honors. Another high-marked ride came on March 13 in Glendale, Arizona, against Derek Kolbaba, scored at 46.5 points for a powerful, direction-changing buck that impacted the rider's positioning in the standings. In the Team Series, Woopaa bucked off opponents in Fort Worth and Oklahoma City, contributing to team dynamics with his aggressive patterns of high jumps followed by tight left-hand spins, though he was occasionally covered for qualified rides like Chase Outlaw's 94.5-point effort in a bonus round. At the 2022 PBR World Finals in , from May 13-22, Woopaa delivered strong but ultimately secondary results across three rounds, solidifying his runner-up finish. In Round 1 on May 14, he Dalton Kasel in under eight seconds for a 43.25-point score, showcasing his signature vertical power that challenged the rider's balance from the outset. Round 4 on May 19 saw him score 45.25 points against Ednei Caminhas, with a sequence of explosive leaps and quick pivots that ended the matchup swiftly and influenced the event's momentum. In the Championship Round on May 22, Woopaa was marked 41.75 for Luciano de Castro, but these totals fell short of Ridin' Solo's two 47-point outs in the same event, confirming Woopaa's second-place ranking for the season.

2023 Season

In 2023, Woopaa competed in a significantly reduced schedule on the PBR Unleash the Beast Series, appearing in only two events amid considerations of his age and the cumulative wear from prior high-intensity seasons. His first outing of the year came on in , , at the PBR Invitational, where he earned a 43-point score after bucking off Salgado in under 8 seconds. Woopaa's final competitive appearance occurred on March 11 in , , at the PBR Brew City Classic, where he scored 45.5 points—the highest mark of his abbreviated 2023 campaign—by bucking off two-time world champion in 6.39 seconds, marking his first victory over the rider after several prior encounters. These performances reflected a noticeable decline in scoring potential compared to his peak years, with no outs reaching the elite 48-point threshold that defined his earlier dominance, signaling the physical demands of his career. Stock contractor Laramie Wilson of Barker Bulls/Hookin' W Ranch cited the timing as optimal to retire Woopaa while he remained sound and healthy, emphasizing a commitment to his long-term well-being over extended competition. The owners announced the decision shortly after the event, highlighting his legacy while shifting focus beyond the arena.

Retirement

Announcement

Woopaa's retirement was formally announced on March 20, 2023, at the age of 6, following his final bucking performance at the PBR Brew City Classic in , , on March 11. The decision stemmed from the cumulative physical demands of his intense bucking career, including recently declining scores that signaled the need to prioritize his long-term health. Owners from Barker Bulls and Hookin' W Ranch emphasized preserving his legacy by allowing him to retire sound and happy, with stock contractor Laramie Wilson noting, "He wanted the bull to go out on top, and with his bull scores starting to decline, now was the time." The announcement elicited widespread media coverage and tributes within the PBR community, highlighting Woopaa's profound impact on the sport. Riders expressed admiration for his athleticism and contributions to high-scoring rides, with two-time World Champion describing him as "a great bull" whose performances were essential to riders' and the sport's excitement. Dalton Kasel called Woopaa "an amazing animal athlete," comparing him to legendary bulls like SweetPro's Bruiser and wishing him a fulfilling . Fan reactions reflected shock and gratitude, as noted in PBR reports, while the organization honored his through articles and video highlights recapping his record-breaking outs. No formal farewell ceremony was held at a specific venue, but PBR's coverage served as a collective tribute during the ongoing 2023 season events.

Transition to Breeding

Following his retirement in March 2023, Woopaa transitioned to a breeding role at Hookin' W Ranch in Tupelo, , where he stands at stud to produce future generations of stock. Owned jointly by Barker Bulls and the ranch's operators, Laramie Wilson and Katie Perschbacher, Woopaa's post-competition life focuses on leveraging his proven athleticism through rather than arena performance. This shift allows the six-year-old to contribute to the industry without the physical demands of professional . Breeding plans emphasize natural matings and , with semen straws made available for purchase to qualified breeders. Hookin' W Ranch has produced and sold several of Woopaa's through elite auctions, including yearling sons that have fetched high prices for their potential as bulls. These early progeny demonstrate strong traits, with multiple earning money in American Bucking Bull Inc. (ABBI) events, aligning with goals to develop champion-caliber stock capable of competing at PBR levels. His valuable pedigree, tracing to elite lines like those of Bushwacker, enhances expectations that his will inherit exceptional spin and power. As of 2025, Woopaa's influence continues through successful progeny sales, such as half-interest offerings at Elite Breeders Sales in September 2025, and competitive achievements, including like Shaboozey winning the Yearling Futurity. To support longevity and fertility, Woopaa receives specialized post-retirement care at , including routine veterinary monitoring, a nutrient-rich diet tailored for reproductive , and controlled access to prevent injuries. This management mirrors standard practices for retired elite bulls, ensuring they remain viable sires for years. Owners Wilson and Perschbacher have expressed optimism about extending Woopaa's impact, stating that his arena success "is remarkable" and that his retirement will yield "many Woopaa calves to come" poised to carry forward his legacy in the sport.

Awards and Honors

PBR Awards

Woopaa earned the 2021 YETI PBR World Champion Bull title by posting the highest season average bull score of 46.93 points (from the top 10 outs), edging out Chiseled by 0.58 points and demonstrating a buck-off rate of 33% with eight rides recorded across 12 outs. This accolade, determined by the bull's overall performance in PBR events including score consistency and ability to unseat riders, highlighted Woopaa's dominance as he produced six bull scores of 47 or higher, including two exceeding 48 points. The title underscored his elite athleticism, as he became one of only a select few bulls to achieve such a mark in PBR history. In addition to the World Champion title, Woopaa was named the 2021 PBR Bull of the World Finals for his exceptional performance at the championship event in , where he scored 48.75 points— the highest mark in finals history at that time—during a record-breaking 98.75-point ride with in the short round. This honor recognized his impact in the culminating rounds, including a quick 3-second buck-off in Round 2 against Daylon Swearingen for a 45-point score, contributing to his season-long reputation for explosive power and difficulty. Throughout his PBR tenure, Woopaa secured five "Built for the Wild" Bull of the Event titles, leading all bulls and more than double the next closest competitor's total of two, with wins at premier events that showcased his consistent high scores above 47 points. He also finished as the No. 1-ranked bull in the regular season standings, a distinction that qualified him for the World Finals and affirmed his status as the top performer prior to the postseason. The awards were presented during the 2021 PBR World Finals at on November 7, with confetti raining down on the arena dirt in celebration, while owner Larry Barker stood emotionally by the chutes, reflecting on Woopaa's journey from ABBI success to PBR stardom. These honors held significant place in PBR history, as Woopaa enabled the first perfect rider score of 50 points by Leme and set multiple records for highest-scored rides, elevating the sport's standards for bovine excellence.

ABBI and Other Recognitions

In 2020, Woopaa was crowned the ABBI Classic World Champion after delivering a standout performance at the ABBI World Finals, held concurrently with the PBR World Finals in . During Round 3, he earned a bull score of 46.75 points, the highest of the event, which propelled him past competitor to secure the title. This achievement also earned him the ABBI Bull of the Finals honor and a $150,000 prize, highlighting his explosive power and consistency as a three-year-old contender. ABBI judging for the Classic division, aimed at three-year-old bulls, relies on five judges who evaluate the animal's performance solely over an eight-second ride, without considering the rider. Each judge assigns up to 25 points based on five key elements—buck (rear-end elevation and drop), kick (front-end power and extension), spin (tightness and change of direction), degree of difficulty (overall challenge and unpredictability), and get-down potential (torque and drop at the end)—with the average score determining the final mark out of 50. Woopaa's near-elite score underscored his elite athleticism in these criteria, setting a benchmark for young bucking stock. This ABBI victory elevated Woopaa's profile in the industry, signaling his genetic potential for breeding programs and attracting interest from stock contractors beyond professional circuits. Unlike PBR's focus on mature, four-year-and-older bulls in high-stakes events, ABBI's emphasizes early development and pedigree, fostering the next generation of elite athletes with events awarding over $1 million annually in total prizes. The win implied long-term value, as top ABBI performers often transition to dominant PBR careers, enhancing their owners' reputations in circles. Beyond the title, Woopaa received limited additional non-PBR industry acknowledgments during his active years, primarily through peer rankings in stock evaluations that praised his conformational excellence and style. In 2023, he was ranked No. 7 on PBR's list of the top 30 bulls in history. No pre-2020 ABBI-related honors were recorded, as Woopaa made his competitive debut in early 2020 without prior event participation. These recognitions reinforced his status as a foundational figure in modern standards, distinct from circuit-specific titles by prioritizing holistic breeding impact.

Legacy

Career Statistics

Woopaa competed professionally in the (PBR) circuit from 2020 to 2023, amassing lifetime earnings of $500,000. During his tenure, he established the highest regular season average bull score in PBR history at 46.93 points in . Over his career, Woopaa recorded 38 outs in 34 events, with a buck-off of 58% and an overall average bull score of 39.76 points; he was ridden 16 times, with his highest single-out score reaching 48.75 points. Of those outs, 27 scored 45 points or higher, and all but one ride exceeded 90 points in combined score. Woopaa contributed to three of the highest-scoring rides in PBR history. In the 2021 PBR World Finals, he was ridden by for a combined score of 98.75 points, including a PBR-record bull score of 48.75 points as a ridden animal. Earlier that year, in the 15/15 Bucking Battle in , Leme rode him for 97.75 points. Additionally, in a 2021 PBR event, Dalton Kasel covered Woopaa for 96.75 points on a 47.25-point bull score. In comparison to other elite bulls, Woopaa's metrics closely rivaled those of Ridin' Solo, another top performer; the two tied for the 2022 YETI World Champion Bull title with a top-six-out average of 46.29 points before Ridin' Solo narrowly prevailed in the finals.

Cultural Impact

Woopaa's media presence has extended his fame beyond the arena, cultivating a dedicated online following through official channels. The bull's dedicated website, woopaa.rocks, serves as a central hub for fans, featuring career highlights, retirement updates, and merchandise sales. On Instagram, under the handle @woopaa__official, Woopaa boasts over 31,000 followers, sharing posts about his legacy, family ranch life, and interactions with riders, which has fostered a sense of personal connection among enthusiasts. YouTube channels, including PBR's official platform, host highlight reels of his iconic performances, such as "The Best of Woopaa" and "YETI Presents: Woopaa," amassing millions of views and introducing new audiences to bull riding's excitement. In 2023, Woopaa inspired a children's titled Woopaa!: World Champion , written by Joy Gallegos and illustrated by Bob Adams, which chronicles his journey in an engaging narrative aimed at young readers. The earned the Gold Medallion Award in the Young Readers Division from the Medallion Awards for , highlighting its role in educating children about the sport's athleticism and animal stars. Additionally, Bob Adams was named 2023 Illustrator of the Year by the same organization, recognizing his vibrant depictions that blend whimsy with the intensity of culture. Merchandise tied to Woopaa has further engaged fans, with items like T-shirts, hoodies, keychains, belt buckles, and canvas prints available through his official shop, often promoting community involvement in events. These products, including the children's book, have helped popularize the sport by making Woopaa a relatable for families and newcomers, emphasizing themes of perseverance and between riders and bulls. His public persona has amplified bull riding's appeal, drawing casual viewers into the PBR fold through accessible, celebratory branding. Woopaa's broader cultural legacy includes his pivotal influence on riders like , whose world titles in 2020 and 2021 were cemented by record-breaking rides on the bull, elevating Leme's career and reshaping competitive narratives in PBR. Retrospectives in 2024 and 2025, such as PBR articles comparing Woopaa-Leme matchups to contemporary rivalries and social media tributes marking historic rides, continue to reference him as a benchmark for excellence. Since his 2023 retirement, no significant new developments have emerged, allowing his story to endure as a of the sport's timeless drama.

References

  1. https://pbr.com/news/2023/03/from-the-vault-woopaas-extraordinary-career/
  2. https://www.woopaa.rocks/about
  3. https://www.thecowboychannel.com/record-breaking-pbr-bull-woopaa-to-be-retired
  4. https://issuu.com/humps-horns/docs/january_2021_digital/s/11536440
  5. https://pbr.com/news/2021/08/woopaa-bucking-in-memory-and-celebration-of-larry-barker-s-lifelong-friend/
  6. https://www.thecowboychannel.com/stock-contractor-laramie-wilson-explains-how-woopaa-got-his-name
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  18. https://pbr.com/news/2022/05/bucking-bull-qualifiers-for-2022-pbr-world-finals-announced-as-fierce-world-champion-bull-race-unfolds/
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  20. https://pbr.com/news/2023/03/riders-reflect-on-woopaas-legendary-career-keep-eyes-toward-the-future/
  21. https://www.instagram.com/p/CqB7u9tpC-P/
  22. https://www.facebook.com/hookinwranch/posts/d44f8e59/1325357232721459/
  23. https://www.tiktok.com/@katieperschbacher/video/7549918621196176671
  24. https://www.pbr.com/media/kd5jf4ct/2024_mediaguide_bull_riding_basics_32224.pdf
  25. https://pbr.com/news/2020/04/inside-abbi-with-jay-daugherty/
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  28. https://www.thesalemnewsonline.com/news/local_news/article_7d8b88d6-9909-11ee-a194-ab2b4f819dfe.html
  29. https://www.woopaa.rocks/
  30. https://www.instagram.com/woopaa__official/?hl=en
  31. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkBRNvNtLu4
  32. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv7OJTGEgEM
  33. https://www.willrogersmedallionaward.net/news-release
  34. https://www.woopaa.rocks/shop
  35. https://pbr.com/news/2024/10/dias-vs-man-hater-leme-vs-woopaa-a-look-at-two-of-the-greatest-rider-bovine/
  36. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHWOWTHJLbf/
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