Man Hater, the legendary bucking bull, died after suffering a catastrophic leg injury during the PBR event in Little Rock. The two-time world champion leaves behind one of the most dominant careers in bull riding history.
The bull riding world is mourning the loss of one of the most dominant animal athletes the sport has ever seen.
Man Hater, a two-time world champion bucking bull and one of the most feared draws in the arena, suffered a severe leg injury during competition at a PBR event Saturday night in Little Rock, Arkansas.
According to the PBR officials, the injury occurred during Man Hater’s out when the bull took a misstep around the six second mark of the ride. The injury affected his back leg and immediately raised a lot of concern among those around the arena.
Fans described the moment as somber and quiet. He was quickly loaded and transported to veterinary specialists at Oklahoma State University, where doctors conducted further evaluation.
After examining the injury, veterinarians determined that the damage was too severe to repair, and the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize the bull.
“We’re heartbroken to share the devastating passing of Man Hater,” the PBR said in a statement. “A once-in-a-generation bull, Man Hater was respected by every rider and loved by everyone who knew him.”
A Bull That Defined an Era
Man Hater had become one of the most recognizable bulls in professional bull riding in his recent seasons.
He captured the PBR World Champion bull titles in 2024 and 2025, becoming the first bull in several years to win back-to-back championships. At the time of his passing, he was leading the 2026 world standings too, positioning himself as a favorite pick for a potential third consecutive title.
His dominance inside the arena was reflected in remarkable statistics.
He had 73 career outs. Man Hater allowed only 11 qualified rides, maintaining his 85 percent buck-off rate. He also recorded the highest individual bull score in PBR history at 49.50 points. This is unheard of. He will undeniably go down in history as one of the most powerful bucking bulls the sport has ever seen.
One of the most memorable rides and historic moments came when Man Hater paired with Cássio Dias for a huge 98.25-point ride, the second highest combined score in PBR history.
Among bull riders, Man Hater commanded a rare level of respect.
On a recent PBR broadcast, they talked about the Bull of the Year title this year. World champion rider Cooper Davis described the bull’s impact on the sport.
“Man Hater is the guy,” Davis said. “That’s who everybody looks to and expects to be the champion at the end of the year.”
For many guys that climb in the chute, the opportunity to face Man Hater represented the ultimate challenge in their career.
A Legacy Beyond the Arena
Man Hater’s story was also deeply tied to the people who cared for him.
The bull was originally owned and hauled by longtime stock contractor Gene Owen. After Owen’s passing, responsibility for the champion bull was entrusted to JW and LeAnn Hart, who continued hauling him while honoring Owen’s vision for the bull’s future.
LeAnn Hart shared an emotional message following his passing, describing the pride and presence Man Hater carried even on the ranch. But something was different after the injury.
"If he could’ve talked, I think he would’ve called him “friend.” In that moment, he wasn’t just a 2x World Champion; he was a soul looking for comfort from the man who knew him best."
She explained how that big powerful bull leaned into JW Hart at the fence. He had done his job well, and did not owe anyone anything. Veterinarians ultimately determined the injury had shattered the leg beyond repair leaving a difficult but necessary decision. Putting him to rest was the only humane option for the champion.
Leanne continued saying, "Gene Owen always believed this bull had a third title in him. Tonight, that vision came true. It just wasn’t on this side of Heaven. There is no greater victory than being healed, being whole, and being back with the cowboy who knew exactly what he was worth. Rest easy, King of the Hill."
Remembering a Legend
In bull riding, the guys on their back are only half the story. The bulls themselves are elite competitors whose ability and personality define the sport.
Few have done that better than Man Hater.
With two world championships, record-setting scores and a reputation that commanded respect from the sport’s best riders, he leaves behind a legacy that will remain part of professional bull riding history forever.
Many bulls become memorable, but others change the sport completeley. Man Hater did both. He is now reunited with Gene, and will be forever remembered as one of the greats.
Everyone at Rodeo Roundtable sends our deepest condolences to the Harts, all of Gene’s family, and everyone who knew and loved this incredible animal athlete.
Rest in Peace Man Hater, your work here is done.