Round 9 of the 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is famously dubbed “Freaky Friday,” a name that fittingly reflects the night’s unpredictable nature where championship races intensified. With the final round approaching, pivotal performances in various events are poised to shape the outcome of the coveted gold buckles.
In Bareback Riding, Cooper Cooke celebrated his second round win at the finals, scoring 86.75 points on Beutler & Son Rodeo’s No Whiskey’s Redlicious Meats. Waylon Bourgeois and Rocker Steiner tied for second place, a crucial feat for the average standings. While Steiner holds the lead in the world standings and is projected to secure his championship if he finishes strong in Round 10, Jess Pope now leads the average, closely followed by Sam Petersen. Rocker Steiner’s quest for the gold buckle remains contingent on his performance in the next round.
In Steer Wrestling, Tucker Allen maintained a commanding lead in the average despite not needing a round win, finishing sixth with a time of 4.0 seconds. He is on track to claim his first World Championship. Justin Shaffer won Round 9 with a standout time of 3.6 seconds, furthering the competitive atmosphere among the top contenders.
Team Roping saw Lightning Aguilera and Kaden Profili clinching victory with a fast time of 3.4 seconds, marking their third go-round win of the finals. However, Kolton Schmidt and Jonathan Torres continue to lead both the average and the world standings, showcasing their impressive rise from the lower ranks to the top. With only one round left, the team roping competition promises to remain a hotbed of excitement.
In Saddle Bronc Riding, Stetson Wright marked his third round win with an impressive 89.75 points aboard R. Watson’s Mad Skills. Although Zeke Thurston faced disappointment with his first no score in six NFR qualifications, Statler Wright is in a strong position to capture his first world championship if he finishes well in Round 10.
Tie-Down Roping was highlighted by Haven Meged’s first round win of the finals at 7.0 seconds. As the 2019 World Champion, Meged’s performance contrasts with Riley Webb, who has solidified his advantage in both the average and world standings. Webb is on the cusp of his third consecutive world title.
In Barrel Racing, Carlee Otero amazed the crowd with a remarkable run of 13.20 seconds, narrowly missing the record set by Hailey Kinsel. Otero, along with her horse Regina, has secured three round wins this year, further adding to the tension surrounding Kassie Mowry, who leads both the average and world standings, aiming for her second consecutive championship.
The Bull Riding event brought uncertainty with Ky Hamilton’s knee injury, although he remains tied for the average lead. Stetson Wright recorded a no-score but holds the lead in the world standings, aiming for both bull riding and all-around titles. Qynn Andersen celebrated his first NFR go-round win with an 87-point ride on Sutton Rodeos’ Mr. Gold.
After nine thrilling rounds, the competition remains fiercely contested across the board. As “Freaky Friday” delivered unexpected plot twists, the anticipation builds for the final round in Las Vegas, where champions will be determined. Fans and participants alike are eagerly awaiting the resolution of these gripping races as the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo approaches its climax.