We were lucky enough to be joined by Ken Roczen on the show this week He gives his thoughts on if Deegan’s antics will work in the 450 class, the MXGP’s, why he doesn’t race outdoors and more!
This week’s episode of our show was an absolute treat for motocross fans across the world as we were lucky enough to be joined by none other than Ken Roczen — a rider whose name is synonymous with resilience, style, and straight talk. From his take on Haiden Deegan’s rising star power to his unfiltered view on the state of the MXGPs, why he doesn’t line up for the AMA Pro Motocross outdoor series, and much more, Roczen brought the fire and the honesty we’ve come to expect from one of the sport’s most outspoken and respected figures.
Roczen Talks Deegan — Will the Antics Work in the 450s?
We dove right in with the topic that’s on everyone’s minds: Haiden Deegan. Love him or hate him, Deegan has brought a spark — and sometimes a storm — to the 250 class. But what happens when he moves up to the stacked 450 class?
Ken didn’t shy away: “You can get away with a lot in the 250s — bumping, showing a little attitude. But in the 450s, man, you’re dealing with grown men. Guys like Eli [Tomac], [Chase] Sexton, myself — we’ve been through the wars. If Deegan tries to play the same games up there, he’s gonna get checked real fast.”
That said, Roczen was also quick to praise Deegan’s raw talent and media savvy, noting that “he’s doing a hell of a job marketing himself and pushing the sport into new spaces,” but warned that “success in the 450s is more about grit and grind than hype and headlines.”
The MXGP Scene: Why Europe Still Matters
Roczen, who started his professional career in the MXGPs before transitioning to the AMA series, shared some fascinating insight into the global landscape of motocross.
“I still watch the MXGPs all the time. Those guys are gnarly,” he said. “It’s a different kind of racing — more technical, more brutal terrain sometimes, and the European tracks really teach you discipline and throttle control.”
When asked about riders like Jorge Prado and Tim Gajser, Roczen didn’t hold back his admiration: “Those guys could come over here and be right in the mix. Prado especially — that guy’s so smooth and calculated, he reminds me of a younger Cairoli with even more explosiveness.”
Why Roczen Doesn’t Race Outdoors — A Personal Decision
Perhaps the biggest question fans have asked over the last few years: Why doesn’t Ken Roczen race the Pro Motocross outdoor series anymore?
“I get it — people want to see me out there, banging bars in the heat,” Roczen said. “But honestly, after everything I’ve been through physically — the injuries, the infections, the surgeries — I had to be real with myself about sustainability.”
Roczen went on to explain that his decision to focus on Supercross, select international events, and enjoying time with his family wasn’t about fear or laziness, but about longevity and quality of life. “I’ve given so much to this sport. I want to keep riding and performing at a high level for as long as I can — but that means racing smarter, not harder.”
What’s Next for Ken Roczen?
While Roczen remains laser-focused on his Supercross performance, he teased some big things on the horizon. “I love doing things differently,” he said. “Whether it’s WSX [World Supercross], select off-season races, or even getting involved in rider development, I’m not going anywhere.”
He also dropped hints about potential projects outside racing — from brand collaborations to mentorship opportunities. “I want to help shape the future of the sport, not just with how I ride, but with how I give back.”
Tune In to the Full Conversation
From the opening lap to the final flag, this conversation with Ken Roczen was everything fans could hope for — real, insightful, and loaded with behind-the-scenes perspective. He’s not just a champion on the track; he’s a voice that matters in the sport’s evolution.
Hit the link below to listen to the full episode. You don’t want to miss this one.
Whether you’re a lifelong Roczen fan or just curious about the state of modern motocross, this interview delivers the goods.
— END —
