In an exhilarating blend of adrenaline, bravery, and astonishing talent, the PBR London Classic at Budweiser Gardens captivated spectators with its unparalleled display of showmanship and bull riding brilliance on May 31 for a thrilling Professional Bull Riders event. While the heart of the show revolved around the exhilarating bull riding, it was the captivating showmanship that truly set the evening apart. Reminiscent of a WWE touring event, the spectacle featured flashy displays, fiery performances, pyrotechnics, and the finest bulls and riders in North America.
Taking center stage was the 2022 PBR World Champion, Daylon Swearingen, hailing from Piffard, New York. Swearingen’s natural talent for the sport was on full display as he delivered a flawless performance, going 2-for-2 and concluding with an astounding 90-point ride. Defending his title as the Cup Series’ London Classic event champion, Swearingen’s triumph launched him to an impressive No. 7 position in the 2023 PBR Canada Championship race.
Swearingen, also a pivotal member of the Carolina Cowboys in the PBR Team Series, showcased his skills in Canada as he continued his comeback from a groin injury. In Round 1, he made an impact by conquering International Gangster from CJ Bucking Bulls, earning 83 points. In the championship round, Swearingen’s strategic decision to face off against the formidable Langham Kid from Two Bit Bucking Bulls paid off tremendously. The crowd inside the venue erupted in uproarious cheer as Swearingen skillfully rode the powerful animal, ultimately scoring a monumental 91.5 points and securing his victory.
With this outstanding performance, Swearingen garnered 125 national points, propelling him from an unranked position to an impressive No. 7 in the intense 2023 PBR Canada Championship battle. He now trails the current leader, Jared Parsonage from Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, by a mere 166 points. Should Swearingen maintain his exceptional form and secure the 2023 title, he would join the ranks of the elite few who have achieved multiple championship victories in Canada’s PBR history.
The PBR Canada Sup Series will continue its thrilling journey in Regina, Saskatchewan, at the Brandt Centre for the PBR Regina Classic on Wednesday, June 21, starting at 7 p.m. CST. Stay connected to PBRCanada.com and follow the tour on Facebook (@PBRCanada), Twitter (@PBRCanada), and Instagram (@PBRCanada) for the latest results, news, and stats.
Professional Bull Riders
Budweiser Gardens
London, ON
May 31, 2023
All photos by Brent Groh
