Bull riding runs in the family for John and Paolo. The two sat down at Amerant Bank Arena to talk about their unique bond, a Hall of Famer coaching his reigning world champion son.
For John, having his father in his corner feels natural.
"I feel like nothing's changed in a way, because he's taught me everything ever since I was a little kid. So, I feel like it's the best feeling in the world, having him as my coach. You know, we're family still, so it's just. It's nice to be in that environment, and I love it. I love every bit of it," John said.
Paolo said finding the words to describe his pride is nearly impossible.
"It's hard to explain in words how proud I am. It's just amazing. I never see anybody with that drive and want to and just love for the sport. That's, I'm really proud for that," Paolo said.
When asked to describe his son in one word, Paolo said one word was not enough.
"Best I've ever seen. That's the couple because one doesn't do it justice. Greatness," Paolo said.
Paolo said he knew John was special from the very beginning.
"When you born everything can sat on. He turns into," Paolo said.
For John, the love of bull riding traces directly back to his father.
"I think just because of him. I watch him all my life. I wanted to be nothing else than the bull rider and just. Just the feeling of it. It's the best feeling in the world. I love being a bull rider. I love every moment that comes with bull riding and it's just, I don't know, it's unexplainable," John said.
When it comes to style, Paolo said the edge goes to him.
"I never dressed for nobody. Always dressed for myself. And I guess because of that, you know, I always kind of look different from everybody. But I like to have old Western look, you know, I just I love America. That's that's the deal. And I just, I think I born in the wrong time," Paolo said.
As for who is the better rider, the two were not ready to settle the debate.
"I was both of us. Let's just say," John said.
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