In the world of professional bull riding, few names shine as brightly as J.B. Mauney. But behind every great cowboy, there’s often a story of love, loss, and resilience. Today, we’re diving into the life of Lexie Wiggly, J.B. Mauney’s ex-wife, and exploring her journey from rodeo queen to independent entrepreneur.

The Rodeo World’s Power Couple: Lexie Wiggly and J.B. Mauney

Lexie’s Background and Entry into the Rodeo Scene

Born Alexandra Mercer on June 15, 1989, Lexie Wiggly grew up with rodeo in her blood. Hailing from Stephenville, Texas, the heart of cowboy country, Lexie was destined for a life intertwined with Western culture. Her journey into the spotlight began when she was crowned Miss Rodeo Texas in 2009, a title that would set the stage for her future in the rodeo world.

Lexie’s early years were marked by a passion for barrel racing and a deep love for the Western lifestyle. She attended Texas A&M University, where she honed her skills both in and out of the arena. 

Her natural charisma and knowledge of the sport soon caught the attention of RideTV, where she would later become a commentator, sharing her insights with rodeo fans across the nation.

J.B. Mauney’s Rise to Bull Riding Stardom

James Burton “J.B.” Mauney, born on January 9, 1987, in Charlotte, North Carolina, was destined for greatness in the world of bull riding. Standing at 5’10” and weighing in at 140 lbs, Mauney may not have been the biggest rider, but his heart and determination were unmatched.

Mauney’s journey in bull riding began at the tender age of three when he started riding sheep. By 13, he was already tackling his first bull. His natural talent and fearless attitude quickly set him apart from his peers. 

In 2006, at just 19 years old, J.B. joined the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) circuit and immediately made waves by winning the Rookie of the Year award.

Key Achievements of J.B. Mauney:

• PBR World Champion (2013, 2015)
• PBR World Finals event winner (2009, 2013)
• PBR Rookie of the Year (2006)
• Over $7.6 million in career earnings

Mauney’s career took off like a rocket, with his fearless riding style and ability to conquer even the most formidable bulls earning him the nickname “The Dragonslayer.” 

His prowess in the arena was unmatched, and he quickly became a fan favorite, sponsored by major brands like Monster Energy, Wrangler, and Resistol.

Their Whirlwind Romance and Marriage

Lexie and J.B.’s paths crossed in the vibrant rodeo scene, and sparks flew instantly. Their romance was the stuff of rodeo legend a beautiful rodeo queen and a rising bull riding star. 

The couple tied the knot on August 17, 2012, in a ceremony that brought together the crème de la crème of the Western sports world.

Their wedding was a celebration of love and rodeo culture, with guests including fellow riders, rodeo royalty, and industry icons like Ty Murray and Flint Rasmussen. 

The event, held at the picturesque Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma, was featured in Western Lifestyle Magazine, cementing their status as rodeo’s power couple.

Key Facts about Their Marriage:

1. Wedding Date: August 17, 2012
2. Venue: Lazy E Arena, Guthrie, Oklahoma
3. Guests: Over 500 attendees from the rodeo world
4. Honeymoon: Two-week trip to Hawaii

Behind the Scenes: The Challenges of a Rodeo Relationship

Life on the Road and Its Impact on Their Marriage

The glamour of rodeo life often masks the grueling reality of constant travel and time apart. Lexie and J.B.’s relationship was put to the test as they navigated the demands of J.B.’s competitive schedule and Lexie’s commitments as a rodeo personality.

Typical PBR Season Schedule:

• 26-30 events per year
• Travel to multiple states and countries
• Weeks away from home at a time

This relentless pace took its toll on their relationship, as it does for many couples in the rodeo world. The struggle to find quality time together amidst the chaos of competition and appearances became a constant challenge.

Balancing Career Ambitions and Family Life

As J.B.’s star continued to rise in the PBR, Lexie found herself at a crossroads. She was building her own brand and career, commentating for RideTV and developing her jewelry line, Lexie’s Lasso. 

The couple welcomed their daughter, Bella Mauney, into the world, adding the joys and challenges of parenthood to their already hectic lives.

Lexie’s role evolved from rodeo queen to supportive wife and mother, all while trying to maintain her own identity in the shadow of J.B.’s growing fame. 

This balancing act is a common struggle for many women in the rodeo world, as highlighted in a 2015 feature in Women’s Rodeo World magazine.

J.B., known for his unwavering focus in the arena, found himself learning to balance his competitive drive with his new role as a father. 

He often spoke about the motivation Bella provided, saying, “Every time I nod my head, I’m doing it for her future.”

The Pressure of Public Scrutiny in the Rodeo Community

Living life in the public eye brought its own set of challenges. 

• Every ride, every win, and every loss was scrutinized by fans and media alike. 
• The pressure to maintain a perfect image while dealing with the realities of a high-stress lifestyle began to wear on both Lexie and J.B.

Social media amplified this scrutiny, with fans following their every move on platforms like Instagram, where Lexie’s @LexieMercerOfficial account gave glimpses into their life together. The constant need to present a united front while dealing with private struggles became an additional burden on their relationship.

The Unraveling: What Led to Their Separation?

Rumors and Speculation in the Rodeo Circuit

As with any high-profile couple, rumors began to circulate about trouble in paradise.

The tight-knit rodeo community buzzed with speculation about the state of Lexie and J.B.’s marriage. Whispers of long-distance strain and the pressures of fame began to surface at events and on rodeo message boards.

Official Statements and Public Reactions

In January 2019, the rodeo world was shocked when Lexie and J.B. announced their separation. The news spread quickly through the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) and Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) circuits, eliciting a range of reactions from fans and fellow competitors.

Public Statement Excerpt: “We have decided to part ways but remain committed to co-parenting our daughter and supporting each other’s individual journeys.”

The announcement was met with an outpouring of support from the rodeo community, but also sparked intense discussion about the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the high-pressure world of professional rodeo.

The Emotional Toll on Both Lexie and J.B.

The end of their marriage was undoubtedly a difficult time for both Lexie and J.B. Friends close to the couple reported that they both struggled with the decision but ultimately felt it was the best choice for their family.

Lexie later shared in an interview with Western Lifestyle Magazine, “Breaking up is never easy, especially when you’re in the public eye. But sometimes, you have to make tough choices for your own well-being and that of your child.”

J.B., known for his stoic demeanor, rarely spoke publicly about the emotional impact of the divorce. However, those close to him noted that he threw himself into his training with renewed intensity, channeling his emotions into his performances in the arena.

Lexie’s Life After the Split

Redefining Her Identity Outside of J.B.’s Shadow

Post-divorce, Lexie faced the challenge of redefining herself outside of her role as J.B. Mauney’s wife. She threw herself into her work, expanding her presence as a rodeo commentator and growing her jewelry brand, Lexie’s Lasso.

Lexie’s Post-Divorce Achievements:

• Launched “Resilience Collection” jewelry line
• Started “Saddle Up with Lexie“ podcast
• Published book: “Bucking the Odds: Finding Strength in the Arena of Life“

Her journey of self-discovery and reinvention resonated with many women in the Western community, and she quickly became a role model for resilience and personal growth.

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Career Moves and Personal Growth

Lexie’s career flourished as she embraced new opportunities. She expanded her role with RideTV, becoming a regular host and commentator for major rodeo events. Her unique perspective as both a former rodeo queen and ex-wife of a champion bull rider gave her insights that viewers appreciated.

In 2022, Lexie launched her motivational speaking career, sharing her story of resilience and reinvention at rodeo events and women’s empowerment conferences across the country. Her talks often focused on finding strength in adversity and building a personal brand in the competitive world of Western sports.

Co-Parenting Their Daughter, Bella

Despite their separation, Lexie and J.B. remained committed to co-parenting their daughter, Bella. They worked out a custody arrangement that allowed Bella to maintain strong relationships with both parents, despite J.B.’s demanding travel schedule.

Lexie often shared glimpses of their co-parenting journey on social media, showcasing a united front at Bella’s school events and rodeo competitions. This approach earned them praise from fans and fellow rodeo parents alike, setting an example for handling divorce in the public eye.

J.B., for his part, made a concerted effort to be present for Bella despite his grueling competition schedule. He was often seen bringing her into the arena after successful rides, sharing his victories with his biggest fan.

J.B. Mauney’s Journey Post-Divorce

Focusing on His Bull Riding Career

Following the divorce, J.B. Mauney threw himself into his bull riding career with renewed vigor. He continued to dominate the PBR circuit, adding to his impressive list of accomplishments.

J.B.’s Post-Divorce Career Highlights:

• Won his second PBR World Championship in 2015
• Broke the record for most 90-point rides in PBR history
• Surpassed $7 million in career earnings

His success in the arena seemed to be fueled by the personal challenges he faced, with many fans noting an even more intense determination in his rides.

New Relationships and Second Marriage

In 2016, J.B. found love again with Samantha Lyne, a barrel racer and daughter of five-time PRCA world champion cowboy, Phil Lyne. The couple married in 2017, blending their families and continuing the rodeo legacy.

J.B. and Samantha welcomed their son, Jagger Briggs Mauney, in January 2019, expanding their family and giving Bella a half-sibling. The new chapter in J.B.’s personal life seemed to bring him a sense of balance and happiness that was reflected in his continued success in the arena.

Balancing Fatherhood with Professional Commitments

As J.B.’s family grew, he faced the ongoing challenge of balancing his professional career with his role as a father. He often spoke in interviews about the difficulty of being away from his children during the long rodeo season but emphasized the importance of setting an example of hard work and perseverance.

J.B.’s commitment to fatherhood was evident in his efforts to include his children in his rodeo life whenever possible, often bringing them to events and sharing moments from the arena on social media.

Lexie Wiggly Today: Charting Her Own Course

Current Pursuits and Passions

As of 2024, Lexie has established herself as a multi-faceted entrepreneur and influencer in the Western lifestyle space. Her jewelry brand, Lexie’s Lasso, has expanded to include clothing and accessories, becoming a favorite among rodeo fans and Western fashion enthusiasts.

Lexie’s Current Ventures:

• Lexie’s Lasso (jewelry and lifestyle brand)
• “Saddle Up with Lexie” podcast
• Motivational speaking engagements
• Western lifestyle blog

Her podcast, “Saddle Up with Lexie,” has gained a devoted following, featuring interviews with rodeo stars, discussions on Western fashion, and advice for navigating life’s challenges.

Social Media Presence and Public Image

Lexie’s Instagram account, @LexieMercerOfficial, boasts over 500,000 followers, where she shares glimpses of her life as a single mother, entrepreneur, and rodeo personality. Her authenticity and willingness to discuss both the highs and lows of her journey have endeared her to fans.

She has also become an advocate for mental health awareness in the rodeo community, using her platform to discuss the unique pressures faced by those in the Western sports world.

Lessons Learned and Personal Reflections

In recent interviews, Lexie has opened up about the lessons she’s learned through her experiences in the rodeo world and her personal life.

Quote from Lexie: “My time as a rodeo queen and my marriage to J.B. were incredible chapters in my life. But it’s the challenges I’ve faced and overcome that have truly shaped who I am today. I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about getting back on the horse it’s about charting your own course and finding strength in your own story.”

Her upcoming book, “From Queen to Conqueror: Reinventing Yourself After Rodeo,” set to be released in late 2024, promises to delve deeper into her journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

The Rodeo Community’s Response

How Fans and Fellow Riders Reacted to the Split

The rodeo community’s reaction to Lexie and J.B.’s divorce was a mix of shock, sadness, and support. Many fans expressed their disappointment at the end of what they saw as a rodeo fairy tale, while others rallied around both Lexie and J.B. individually.

Fellow riders and rodeo personalities publicly offered their support, recognizing the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the high-pressure world of professional rodeo.

The Impact on Sponsorships and Partnerships

The divorce initially caused some uncertainty regarding sponsorships and partnerships for both Lexie and J.B. However, their professional handling of the situation and continued success in their respective fields helped maintain their marketability.

Sponsorship Changes:

• Lexie: Gained new partnerships with Western fashion brands
• J.B.: Maintained major sponsorships like Monster Energy and Wrangler

Changing Perceptions of Rodeo Relationships

The high-profile nature of Lexie and J.B.’s split sparked discussions within the rodeo community about the unique pressures faced by couples in the sport. It led to increased awareness of the need for support systems and resources for rodeo families dealing with the strains of life on the road.

The Professional Bull Riders organization responded by implementing a family support program, offering counseling services and resources for riders and their families.

Looking Ahead: Lexie’s Future Plans

Professional Aspirations

Lexie continues to expand her brand and influence in the Western lifestyle space. She has hinted at collaborations with major Western wear brands and is exploring opportunities in television production.

Upcoming Projects:

• Expansion of Lexie’s Lasso into home decor
• Development of a Western lifestyle app
• Potential reality TV show focusing on rodeo life

Personal Goals and Potential New Relationships

While Lexie has been private about her personal life since her divorce, she has expressed openness to finding love again. In interviews, she emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-love before entering into a new relationship.

Her focus remains on raising her daughter, Bella, and continuing to build her brand and career. Lexie often speaks about the importance of setting an example of independence and resilience for her daughter.

Her Role in the Rodeo World Moving Forward

Lexie’s unique perspective as a former rodeo queen, ex-wife of a champion bull rider, and successful entrepreneur positions her as an influential voice in the rodeo world. She continues to be involved in major rodeo events as a commentator and brand ambassador.

Her advocacy for women in Western sports and her efforts to bring attention to the mental health challenges faced by rodeo athletes have earned her respect beyond her achievements in the arena.

J.B. Mauney’s Continued Legacy and Recent Developments

The End of an Era: J.B.’s Retirement from Bull Riding

J.B. Mauney’s illustrious career as a bull rider came to an unexpected end on September 6, 2023. During the Lewiston, Idaho Round-Up Division 2 Xtreme Bulls event, Mauney was bucked off a bull named Arctic Assassin, resulting in a broken neck. This injury, which required surgical intervention with rods, a plate, and screws, marked the conclusion of his competitive bull riding journey.

The decision to retire was not an easy one for Mauney, who had built his life around the sport. However, the severity of the injury and the potential risks of continuing to ride left him with little choice.

In interviews following his retirement announcement, Mauney cited his family, particularly his wife Samantha and young son Jagger, as the primary reason for his decision.

“I’ve had a great career,“ Mauney reflected in a PBR press release. “But now it’s time to focus on being a dad and a husband. I can’t risk leaving my kids without a father.“

Transition to Coaching: The Oklahoma Wildcatters

Despite hanging up his riding gear, J.B. Mauney’s involvement in the world of professional bull riding is far from over.

In a exciting development for fans, Mauney was announced as the head coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters, a new franchise in the PBR Team Series for the 2024 season.

This transition allows Mauney to share his wealth of experience and knowledge with the next generation of bull riders. His grit, determination, and fearless attitude that earned him the nickname “The Dragonslayer” are qualities he now aims to instill in his team.

Mauney’s coaching style is described as motivational yet demanding. He’s known for pushing his riders to their limits while maintaining a strong focus on safety and strategy. This new role has allowed Mauney to stay connected to the sport he loves while prioritizing his health and family.

Life on the Ranch

When not coaching, Mauney spends his time on his ranch, XV Ranch, near Stephenville, Texas. The family moved there in early 2022, embracing the ranching lifestyle fulltime. On any given day, you might find Mauney fixing fences, wrangling cattle, or loading bulls into chutes.

Interestingly, Arctic Assassin, the bull that ended Mauney’s riding career, now resides on his ranch. In a twist of fate that speaks to Mauney’s character, he harbors no ill will towards the animal. “That’s just part of bull riding,” he’s been quoted as saying. “Sometimes you win, sometimes the bull wins.”

The Lasting Legacy of Lexie and J.B.’s Relationship

Impact on Rodeo Culture

The story of Lexie Wiggly and J.B. Mauney has become a part of modern rodeo lore. Their relationship and subsequent split highlighted the realities of life in the spotlight for rodeo couples and sparked important conversations about work-life balance in the sport.

Their journey has influenced how the rodeo community views relationships, encouraging more open discussions about the challenges faced by couples in the sport. It has also inspired rodeo organizations to provide more support for families dealing with the unique pressures of the rodeo lifestyle.

Lessons for Other Couples in the Spotlight

Their journey has provided valuable lessons for other high-profile couples in the rodeo world and beyond:

1. Importance of individual identity
2. Challenges of balancing career and family
3. Need for open communication and support systems
4. Ability to co-parent successfully after divorce

Many rodeo couples have cited Lexie and J.B.’s handling of their split as an example of how to navigate difficult personal situations while in the public eye.

How Their Story Continues to Resonate in the Rodeo Community

Lexie and J.B.’s story continues to be a topic of interest and discussion in rodeo circles. Their ability to maintain a cordial relationship for the sake of their daughter and their continued success in their individual pursuits serve as an inspiration to many.

The documentary series “Love and Rodeo,” which featured their story among others, continues to be popular among rodeo fans, serving as a testament to the enduring interest in their journey.

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FAQ’s: Frequently Asked Questions

Who is JB Mauney’s ex-wife? 

JB Mauney’s ex-wife is Lexie Wiggly (now known professionally as Alexandra Mercer). They were married from 2012 to 2015.

Who is Lexie Wiggly married to now?

As of the latest information available, Lexie Wiggly is not currently married. She has been focusing on her career and raising her daughter, Bella.

Who is the 7 million dollar bull rider?

J.B. Mauney is often referred to as the “7 million dollar bull rider” due to his career earnings exceeding $7 million, making him the highest-earning bull rider in the sport’s history.

Who is J.B. Mauney’s sister? 

J.B. Mauney’s sister is Jessi Proctor.

Is there a movie about J.B. Mauney? 

While there isn’t a feature film about J.B. Mauney, his career has been extensively documented in various PBR productions and sports documentaries.

How wealthy is JB Mauney?

J.B. Mauney’s net worth is estimated to be over $6 million, primarily from his bull riding career earnings and sponsorships.

What does JB stand for in JB Mauney’s name?

JB stands for James Burton. J.B. Mauney’s full name is James Burton Mauney.

Where does J.B. Mauney live now? 

As of 2024, J.B. Mauney lives on his ranch, XV Ranch, near Stephenville, Texas. He moved there with his family in early 2022 after living in Mooresville, North Carolina and Cotulla, Texas.

What ended J.B. Mauney’s career? 

J.B. Mauney’s bull riding career ended on September 6, 2023, when he broke his neck after being bucked off a bull named Arctic Assassin at the Lewiston, Idaho Round-Up Division 2 Xtreme Bulls event.

Why did J.B. Mauney retire from bull riding? 

Mauney retired due to the severity of his neck injury and the risks associated with continuing to ride. He cited his family, particularly his wife and young son, as the primary reason for his decision to step away from competitive bull riding.

Will J.B. Mauney return to PBR?

While J.B. Mauney has retired from competitive bull riding, he has returned to the PBR as the head coach of the Oklahoma Wildcatters for the 2024 PBR Camping World Team Series.

What is Lexie Wiggly’s net worth? 

As of February 2022, Lexie Wiggly’s net worth was estimated to be more than $100,000, primarily from her various business ventures and media appearances.

Final Words

Lexie Wiggly and J.B. Mauney were once rodeo’s power couple. She was a rodeo queen, he was a champion bull rider. They got married, had a kid, but the rodeo life wasn’t easy on their relationship. They split up in 2019, shocking fans.

Since then, Lexie’s built her own brand, started a podcast, and become a motivational speaker. J.B. kept riding bulls until a nasty injury in 2023 made him hang up his spurs. Now he’s coaching a bull riding team. They’re both doing their own thing, co-parenting their daughter Bella, and showing that life after divorce can still be pretty darn good.

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