MECHANICSVILLE, Maryland – The 2025 Pro Motocross season delivered yet another thrilling chapter at Budds Creek, and Haiden Deegan once again proved why he is one of the sport’s brightest stars. Despite an early setback and a penalty in Moto 1, Deegan regrouped, dominated Moto 2, and ultimately secured the overall victory on a dramatic day filled with red flags, penalties, and rider comebacks.
A Rollercoaster Start
The weekend began with high intensity, as Deegan appeared to have Moto 1 locked down after crossing the finish line first. However, his celebrations were quickly muted when officials penalized him for a costly mistake. Deegan had jumped and passed a rider under a red cross flag, which resulted in a five-point penalty and the loss of one finishing position. That decision elevated Cole Davies into the Moto 1 win, while Deegan was pushed back to second.
While the penalty was a disappointment, Deegan’s competitive spirit remained unshaken. His response? To come out even stronger in the second moto.
Moto 2: Redemption Ride
As the gate dropped for Moto 2, Deegan wasted no time establishing himself at the front. He quickly powered past Nate Thrasher, securing the early lead. However, the race was briefly interrupted by the second red flag of the day, adding to the tension and unpredictability.
During the staggered restart, Deegan once again showed maturity and control well beyond his years. He calmly defended his lead and pushed the pace, leaving little doubt about his determination. Lap after lap, he extended his advantage and carried it all the way to the checkered flag. With a Moto 2 victory and a second-place finish in Moto 1, Deegan earned the overall win for the weekend.
“I told my mechanic, ‘watch this,’” Deegan said afterward. “I’m going to sprint; I’m going to kick their ass. And that’s what I did.”
Shimoda Battles for Second Overall
Behind Deegan, Jo Shimoda delivered an impressive weekend of his own. Shimoda’s performance in Moto 1 was hampered by the same penalty that bit Deegan, costing him valuable points and dropping him from second to third in that race. But he rebounded strongly in Moto 2, pushing hard and ultimately finishing runner-up.
His combined results of third and second earned him second overall on the day. More importantly, Shimoda left Budds Creek with confidence and momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
“Hopefully I can keep this momentum going with my starts,” Shimoda shared. “I just have to fight for it, but overall I’ve never felt much better.”
Kitchen Finds the Podium
The final podium spot belonged to Levi Kitchen, who strung together a pair of consistent rides. Finishing fourth in Moto 1 and third in Moto 2, Kitchen’s hard work and persistence finally paid off.
“I’ve been trying every weekend,” Kitchen admitted. “I’ve hit the ground a lot and started in the back. The team, I’m really grateful for them. We found a little with the bike and it helped with the starts today.”
Davies’ Highs and Lows
Meanwhile, Moto 1 winner Cole Davies experienced the highs and lows that define motocross. After celebrating a breakthrough victory in the opening race, his day quickly turned around when he struggled in Moto 2, ultimately finishing 17th. That result left him seventh overall despite starting the day on top.
A Day to Remember
Budds Creek lived up to its reputation as one of the most challenging and unpredictable circuits on the calendar. For Deegan, the weekend was a perfect showcase of resilience, speed, and determination. Overcoming penalties, red flags, and fierce competition, he left Maryland not only with the overall win but also with a powerful statement about his championship-caliber form.
With Shimoda and Kitchen showing strong performances and Davies reminding everyone of the sport’s unpredictability, the 2025 season continues to deliver drama and excitement. Fans now turn their attention to the next round, wondering if Deegan’s Budds Creek dominance is just the start of an even bigger run.