Richmond Champion is a professional rodeo cowboy, outdoorsman, and dedicated family man who calls Montana home.
As a brand ambassador for Montana Knife Company, Richmond embodies the authentic Western spirit and connection to the outdoors that MKC values.
He’s well-known for his achievements in professional bareback riding competitions, as well as his love of fly fishing, hunting, and living life on his own terms.
Life On The Move
Richmond spent his childhood on the move. Born in California, his family relocated frequently due to his father’s career in the hotel business.
Some of his most formative years were spent in Alaska, where he developed a love for the outdoors. Richmond recalls fishing for salmon on the Kenai River and going hunting with his father. “I remember going on moose hunts with my dad when I was really little, just on an afternoon, sitting under a tree, having some Top Ramen while it’s raining — really good memories,” he recalls.
When his family moved to Texas, Richmond’s outdoor pursuits took a dramatic turn. After attending the Mesquite Rodeo, he was immediately captivated and explored the horseback-riding world from age nine until sixteen, diving into cowboy-mounted shooting and eventually bull riding.
Following an injury during his early bull-riding days, Richmond discovered his true calling in bareback riding. “It was immediate. Like, this is the best thing ever. I loved it,” he shares.
This passion led him to receive a full scholarship to Tarleton State University, launching his professional career.
From the Rodeo Circuit to the Montana Mountains
Richmond’s professional career took off in 2014 when he competed in The American Rodeo, becoming the first bareback rider to earn $1 million at a single rodeo at just 21 years old. This life-changing achievement catapulted him into rodeo stardom.
He built a home in Stephenville, Texas, but his life took another turn when he met his now-wife Paige, an Olympic figure skater. Their mutual love of the outdoors led them to Montana, where Richmond now balances his professional rodeo career with family life and outdoor pursuits like fishing, hunting, and skiing.
Evolution of a Modern Cowboy
Richmond represents professional rodeo’s evolution, bridging the traditional cowboy lifestyle with modern training methods. His approach to training transformed around 2016–2017, largely influenced by his wife Paige’s athletic background.
He began working with professional trainers who developed sport-specific regimens for rodeo athletes, something virtually unheard of a decade ago. This scientific approach has transformed how Richmond prepares for competitions, especially the National Finals Rodeo.
Richmond has witnessed a dramatic shift in rodeo culture during his career. “The sport has never been as good as it is now,” he says. This evolution coincides with increased prize money and professional standards, allowing cowboys like Richmond to extend their careers through proper training and recovery.
Why MKC?
Richmond connected with Montana Knife Company through rodeo contractor Wade Sankey. After appearing on Josh’s podcast just before the National Finals Rodeo in 2023, Richmond visited the MKC facility and immediately connected with the brand and its founder.
“You don’t have to ask him to know what he’s about,” Richmond says of Josh. “You can see the values that he instills just within his team.”
This authentic approach to business resonates deeply with Richmond, who has always prioritized relationships over transactions. “The brands I wear on my shirt… not one of them has ever felt like a business deal. It’s always been a friendship or relationship first,” he explains.
Richmond’s favorite MKC knives include the Mini-Speedgoat 2.0, which serves as his “daily driver” for general use, the Stockyard knife designed specifically for cattle work, and the Westslope, which accompanies him on fishing expeditions.
What’s Next?
When not competing in rodeos across the country, Richmond can be found on Montana’s rivers with a fly rod in hand. “Fly fishing has been my new addiction,” he admits. During a season off due to a spinal fusion in 2022, he even tried his hand at guiding, spending 20 days on the water.
As Richmond continues his professional rodeo career, he’s also focused on passing his values to his son Forrest, who, at just a year and a half, has already traveled to numerous rodeos. Richmond hopes to instill in him the discipline required for success, along with loyalty, honesty, and especially empathy.
Whether he’s competing at the highest levels of professional rodeo or enjoying a quiet day on Montana’s waters, Richmond Champion embodies the authentic spirit, craftsmanship, and American values Montana Knife Company stands for.
Connect With Richmond Champion
Want to keep up with Richmond’s outdoor pursuits? Follow him on:
Instagram: @richmondchampion
Facebook: Richmond Champion
And check out his profiles:
