“Could’ve Had”: JB Mauney and Luke Branquinho Reminisce About Baby Names With a Playful Reveal

Let’s begin with the rodeo trio’s introduction: JB Mauney was a former professional rodeo cowboy who was an expert bull rider. In the PBR’s premier Built Ford Tough Series (BFTS), he is one of just two bull riders to stay aboard Bushwacker for the entire eight seconds. Second, Luke Branquinho grew up in Los Alamos, California, on a family ranch owned by seven generations. Branquinho began wrestling steers at the age of eleven and grew up roping, but he ended his career in 2022 after a series of injuries that kept him out of the game for many seasons.

Richmond “Richie” Champion, the last member of the clan and a professional who specializes in bareback bronc riding, is still at PRCA. Right now, everyone is having fun. The group was recently seen together in Mauney’s talk show remembering a special moment that they shared online.

JB Mauney chats with riding legends

Richie Champion joined Mauney and Luke Branquinho for a chat, which was posted on Instagram by @tetonridge. The clip was captioned, “JB and Luke are still confused why Richie Champion didn’t use their baby name suggestions.” Champion’s wife Paige and their baby were acknowledged at the outset, and Mauney offered advice joined by Luke along the lines of, “You should’ve named him(Champion’s son) Luke, or Richmond, you could’ve had a Nick he already has one JB.” Champion cut it short with a “nah.”

The discussion took an epic twist when the legends joined forces, creating a humorous and enjoyable episode. Earlier, the legends provided live commentary while witnessing a daring display. Mauney and Branquinho engaged in a lengthy discussion on American rodeo, sharing personal stories and experiences from their journeys. This ranged from JB Mauney’s history of injuries to his professional career.

Mauney was notorious for selecting the weakest bull in draws, particularly in the last round of most competitions. Around thirteen matches between him and three-time world champion bull Bushwacker are widely recognized. “If you want to be the best, you have to ride the best,” was Mauney’s mantra. While he was the top of his class, Branquinho was no less champion either.

Luke Branquinho’s career highlights

Five-time gold buckle winner Branquinho made a big impression as the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s 2000 Rookie of the Year in Steer Wrestling and Overall. Following his retirement in 2022 due to a series of ailments, Branquinho made a smooth transition into television commentary. His renowned Branquinho Booty Shake, a fan favorite, never failed to bring the house down during a winning run.

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Throughout his remarkable career, Branquinho won the NFR average in 2008, 2011, and 2014. He also established other records. Branquinho is a two-time National Circuit Finals Rodeo titlist and an eight-time California Circuit steer wrestling champion. His legend lives on even after he hangs up his boots.

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