If stewart had jetts Honda or ET3 it would be over quick JS7 would smoke him if you ask james he only liked maybe one of his bikes it was the beginning of the 4-stroke era true story ..Jett would not stand a chance with James 2 stroke skills and 4 stroke skill no way .You fanboys…Read More
James Stewart vs. Jett Lawrence: A Debate Fans Can’t Stop Talking About
The motocross community is buzzing again, this time over a heated hypothetical matchup between the legendary James “Bubba” Stewart and today’s rising superstar Jett Lawrence. The conversation isn’t new, but it’s one that seems to grow louder every season as Jett continues to dominate modern Supercross and motocross circuits. The question remains: could Jett Lawrence hang with James Stewart in his prime? Many fans argue the answer is a resounding no.
Supporters of Stewart are quick to point out that “JS7” was a once-in-a-lifetime talent, someone who changed the sport forever. His blistering speed, unmatched aggression, and revolutionary riding style left competitors stunned. He was a rider who redefined what was possible on both 2-strokes and 4-strokes, making him nearly untouchable during his peak years. When discussing Stewart’s legacy, fans often bring up one major point—if Stewart had today’s machinery, such as Honda’s current CRF lineup ridden by Jett Lawrence or Eli Tomac’s star Yamaha, the races wouldn’t even be close. They believe Stewart’s natural ability paired with modern bikes would create a level of dominance few riders could dream of matching.
A key part of this debate revolves around Stewart’s relationship with his bikes. It’s been said, even by Stewart himself, that he only truly “loved” one of his machines throughout his career. This was at the dawn of the 4-stroke era, a time when the sport was undergoing massive change. Stewart had to adapt, transitioning from the razor-sharp 2-stroke bikes that matched his aggressive, whip-fast style, to heavier and more complex 4-strokes. Despite the adjustment period, Stewart still managed to deliver jaw-dropping performances. Fans argue that his ability to win—even when not fully comfortable with his equipment—proves just how superior his raw talent was.
On the other side, Jett Lawrence’s supporters counter that motocross is always evolving, and comparing riders across eras is never straightforward. Jett, still in the early stages of what could become a legendary career, has already achieved more at his age than many could have imagined. His consistency, calm under pressure, and smooth, almost effortless riding style have drawn comparisons to legends like Ricky Carmichael and Ryan Dungey. Where Stewart often rode on the razor’s edge, sometimes crashing spectacularly, Jett’s approach is measured and calculated. His ability to maintain control while still being incredibly fast is a skill that belongs to the modern generation of riders.
Still, Stewart’s fan base isn’t swayed. They argue that motocross is not just about control and precision—it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Stewart wasn’t just winning races; he was rewriting the rulebook of motocross technique. His famous “Bubba Scrub” didn’t just give him an advantage, it transformed the way every rider after him approached jumps. Without Stewart’s innovations, they argue, riders like Jett might not even be riding the way they do today.
Then comes the equipment factor. If Stewart had access to the finely tuned, highly advanced bikes of today, many believe his natural gifts would have been unleashed even further. Back when Stewart raced, bikes were heavier, less forgiving, and required riders to manhandle them with precision. Yet Stewart still dominated. In contrast, Jett benefits from years of advancements in technology, from improved suspension to lighter frames and refined 4-stroke engines. Critics of Jett claim that while he’s undoubtedly talented, he hasn’t faced the same mechanical challenges Stewart did.
What makes this debate fascinating is that both riders represent different eras of motocross greatness. Stewart was the explosive showman, dazzling crowds with speed and style that made jaws drop. Jett is the modern prodigy, combining technical brilliance with maturity beyond his years. While Stewart’s career was at times plagued by injuries and the risks of his all-or-nothing approach, Jett’s career so far is marked by calculated dominance and the promise of longevity.
If the two had ever lined up together in their prime, the racing world would have stopped in its tracks. Fans imagine Stewart flying through the air on a perfectly executed scrub, while Jett counters with flawless rhythm sections and consistency over 20 laps. It’s a dream matchup that may never happen, but it fuels endless conversations online and at the track.
At the heart of the debate lies respect. Even Stewart himself has acknowledged the talent of the new generation, recognizing the evolution of the sport. Likewise, Jett Lawrence has shown reverence to the legends who came before him, understanding that his path has been paved by riders like Stewart who pushed motocross into new territory.
For now, the arguments will continue, with “fanboys” on both sides defending their favorite with passion. Some say James Stewart would have smoked Jett Lawrence, especially if given today’s bikes. Others argue that Jett’s poise and precision give him the edge in the modern era. The truth is, both riders are icons in their own right, and motocross is richer for having witnessed their brilliance.
One thing is certain—James Stewart’s legacy remains untouchable in the hearts of many, while Jett Lawrence is writing his own story in real time. Whether or not Jett could match Stewart is a question that will never be answered definitively. But that’s part of what makes the debate so thrilling.
