What Happened to Lexie Wiggly? J. B. Mauney’s ex-wife

In the high-stakes world of professional bull riding, few names shine as brightly as J.B. Mauney. But behind every great rider, there’s often an equally remarkable partner. For years, that person was Lexie Wiggly. This article delves into the captivating journey of Lexie Wiggly, from her days as J.B. Mauney’s wife to her current life as an independent woman forging her own path.

The Rodeo World’s Power Couple: Lexie Wiggly and J.B. Mauney

Lexie’s Background and Entry into the Rodeo Scene

Lexie Wiggly, born Alexandra Mercer on June 15, 1989, in Stephenville, Texas, was destined for the rodeo life. Growing up in the heart of cowboy country, Lexie developed a passion for horses and the rodeo circuit from a young age. Her father, a local rancher, introduced her to the world of barrel racing when she was just six years old.

By her teens, Lexie had become a force to be reckoned with in junior rodeo competitions. Her natural grace and fierce determination caught the eye of many, earning her the title of Miss Rodeo Texas in 2009. This prestigious win catapulted her into the national spotlight and set the stage for her future in the rodeo world.

J.B. Mauney’s Rise to Bull Riding Stardom

While Lexie was making waves in the rodeo queen circuit, J.B. Mauney was climbing the ranks of professional bull riding. Born on January 9, 1987, in Charlotte, North Carolina, J.B. started riding sheep at the tender age of three. By 18, he had turned pro and was quickly becoming one of the most exciting prospects in the sport.

J.B.’s career highlights include:

• 2 PBR World Championships (2013, 2015)
• 7-time PBR World Finals event winner
• Holds the record for most 90-point rides in PBR history (74)
• First rider to reach $7 million in career earnings

Their Whirlwind Romance and Marriage

Lexie and J.B.’s paths crossed at a Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event in 2009. The attraction was immediate and intense. Despite their busy schedules, they managed to nurture a relationship that blossomed into a full-fledged romance.

“When I met J.B., it was like two worlds colliding. We both lived and breathed rodeo, but in such different ways. It was exciting and terrifying all at once,” Lexie once shared in a 2012 interview with Rodeo Life magazine.

Their engagement in 2011 sent ripples through the rodeo community. The wedding, held on August 17, 2012, was a star-studded affair, bringing together the biggest names in professional bull riding and rodeo royalty.

Key Facts about Their Marriage:

• Wedding Date: August 17, 2012
• Venue: Lazy E Arena, Guthrie, Oklahoma
• Guests: Over 500 attendees from the rodeo world
• Honeymoon: Two-week trip to Hawaii

Behind the Scenes: The Challenges of a Rodeo Relationship

Life on the Road and Its Impact on Their Marriage

The glitz and glamour of rodeo life often mask the harsh realities of constant travel and time apart. For Lexie and J.B., this became their new normal. J.B.’s competition schedule meant he was on the road for up to 300 days a year, while Lexie balanced her own appearances and commitments.

A typical year in their marriage looked something like this:

Month	J.B.’s Schedule	Lexie’s Activities
January	PBR season opener	Rodeo queen appearances
February-April	PBR events across the US	Managing their ranch, charity work
May-August	Major rodeos and PBR events	Barrel racing competitions, brand partnerships
September-November	PBR World Finals preparation	Supporting J.B., managing business interests
December	Off-season training	Holiday events, family time

This relentless schedule took its toll. The couple often went weeks without seeing each other, relying on phone calls and text messages to stay connected.

Balancing Career Ambitions and Family Life

In 2014, Lexie and J.B. welcomed their daughter, Bella. This joyous occasion brought new challenges to their already complex lives. Lexie found herself torn between her roles as a mother, a supportive wife, and a woman with her own ambitions.

Lexie’s career pursuits during this time included:

• Launching a line of Western-inspired jewelry
• Hosting a popular rodeo lifestyle podcast
• Continuing her work as a motivational speaker for young rodeo athletes

Meanwhile, J.B.’s career was reaching new heights. He clinched his second PBR World Championship in 2015, further cementing his status as one of the greatest bull riders of all time.

The Pressure of Public Scrutiny in the Rodeo Community

Being in the public eye added another layer of complexity to their relationship. Every appearance, every social media post, and every performance was scrutinized by fans and critics alike.

Common Challenges Faced by Rodeo Couples:

• Constant travel and time apart
• Financial pressures of an unpredictable career
• Balancing individual ambitions with relationship needs
• Dealing with injuries and the physical toll of the sport
• Managing public expectations and media attention

For Lexie and J.B., these challenges began to wear on their relationship. Despite their best efforts to present a united front, cracks began to show.

The Unraveling: What Led to Their Separation?

Rumors and Speculation in the Rodeo Circuit

By late 2018, whispers of trouble in paradise began to circulate. Keen-eyed fans noticed that Lexie’s appearances at J.B.’s events had become less frequent. Social media posts together became rare, and when they did appear, they lacked the warmth of earlier years.

The rodeo community, tight-knit as it is, became a hotbed of speculation. Theories ranged from the strain of J.B.’s grueling schedule to supposed infidelities on both sides. However, both Lexie and J.B. maintained a dignified silence in the face of these rumors.

Official Statements and Public Reactions

In January 2019, Lexie and J.B. released a joint statement announcing their separation. The statement, posted on both their social media accounts, read:

“After much consideration and prayer, we have decided to end our marriage. We remain committed to co-parenting our daughter and ask for privacy during this difficult time. We are grateful for the love and support of our rodeo family and fans.”

The announcement sent shockwaves through the rodeo world. Fans and fellow athletes alike expressed their surprise and sadness at the news.

Public Reactions:

• Overwhelming support from fans on social media
• Messages of encouragement from fellow rodeo athletes
• Speculation in rodeo news outlets about the cause of the split
• Concerns about how this would affect J.B.’s performance in the upcoming season

The Emotional Toll on Both Lexie and J.B.

While both Lexie and J.B. maintained a brave face publicly, friends close to the couple reported that the separation took a heavy emotional toll. Lexie temporarily stepped back from her public appearances, focusing on her daughter and her personal healing.

J.B., known for his stoic demeanor, showed rare vulnerability in a post-event interview in March 2019:

“It’s been tough, I won’t lie. But I’m trying to focus on what’s important – my riding and my little girl. Lexie and I are doing our best to make this transition as smooth as possible for Bella.”

Lexie’s Life After the Split

Redefining Her Identity Outside of J.B.’s Shadow

The months following the separation were a period of intense self-reflection for Lexie. Having been “J.B. Mauney’s wife” for so long, she now faced the challenge of redefining herself both personally and professionally.

Lexie took several steps to reclaim her identity:

1. Reverted to using her maiden name, Alexandra Mercer, professionally
2. Enrolled in business courses at Texas A&M University
3. Expanded her motivational speaking engagements to include topics on resilience and personal growth
4. Launched a lifestyle blog focused on single motherhood and personal empowerment

Career Moves and Personal Growth

Lexie’s career took an unexpected but exciting turn in late 2019 when she was offered a position as a commentator for RideTV, a network dedicated to equestrian sports and Western lifestyle. This role allowed her to leverage her rodeo expertise while developing new skills in broadcasting.

Lexie’s Professional Achievements Post-Separation:

• Became a regular commentator for RideTV’s rodeo coverage
• Expanded her jewelry line to include a “Resilience Collection”
• Published her first book, “Bucking the Odds: Finding Strength in the Arena of Life” in 2021
• Launched a successful YouTube channel focusing on Western lifestyle and personal development

Co-Parenting Their Daughter, Bella

Despite the challenges of their separation, both Lexie and J.B. remained committed to co-parenting their daughter, Bella. They established a flexible custody arrangement that allowed Bella to spend time with both parents, even with J.B.’s demanding travel schedule.

Lexie spoke candidly about co-parenting in a 2020 interview with Western Lifestyle Magazine:

“It hasn’t always been easy, but J.B. and I are united in our love for Bella. We’ve learned to communicate better and put her needs first. Seeing her happy and thriving is our greatest accomplishment.”

J.B. Mauney’s Journey Post-Divorce

Focusing on His Bull Riding Career

In the wake of the separation, J.B. threw himself into his bull riding career with renewed vigor. Despite speculation that the personal turmoil would affect his performance, J.B. proved his resilience by having one of his strongest seasons in 2019.

J.B.’s 2019 Season Highlights:

• Won 3 PBR premier series events
• Finished 3rd in the world standings
• Set a new record for most 90-point rides in a single season (8)

New Relationships and Second Marriage

While J.B. initially kept his personal life private following the separation, he found love again with Samantha Lyne, a barrel racer and model. The couple’s relationship became public in early 2020, and they married in a small ceremony on September 19, 2020.

J.B. and Samantha welcomed their first child together, a son named Jagger, in January 2022. This new chapter in J.B.’s life seemed to bring him a sense of peace and stability.

Balancing Fatherhood with Professional Commitments

Becoming a father again while still competing at the highest level of bull riding presented new challenges for J.B. He spoke about this balancing act in a 2022 interview with PBR.com:

“Having Jagger has given me a whole new perspective. I want to be the best dad I can be, while still chasing my goals in the arena. It’s a juggling act, but it’s worth every second.”

J.B.’s commitment to fatherhood is evident in his actions. He’s often seen FaceTiming with his children before events and has been known to fly home immediately after competitions to spend time with his family. This dedication to both his career and his family has earned him renewed respect from fans and fellow riders alike.

Lexie Wiggly Today: Charting Her Own Course

Current Pursuits and Passions

As of 2024, Lexie has firmly established herself as a multifaceted entrepreneur and influencer in the Western lifestyle space. Her days are filled with a variety of pursuits that showcase her diverse talents and interests.

Lexie’s Current Professional Endeavors:

1. Television Host: Continues her role as a commentator for RideTV, now also hosting her own segment called “Rodeo Rundown with Lexie”
2. Author: Following the success of her first book, Lexie is currently working on her second, tentatively titled “From Queen to Conqueror: Reinventing Yourself After Rodeo”
3. Public Speaker: Regularly gives keynote speeches at women’s empowerment conferences and rodeo events
4. Entrepreneur: Has expanded her jewelry line into a full lifestyle brand, “Lexie’s Lasso,” which includes Western-inspired clothing and home decor
5. Podcast Host: Launched “Saddle Up with Lexie,” a weekly podcast featuring interviews with influential figures in the Western and rodeo world

Social Media Presence and Public Image

Lexie has embraced social media as a platform to connect with fans and share her journey. Her Instagram account, @LexieMercerOfficial, boasts over 500,000 followers and offers a mix of professional updates, lifestyle tips, and glimpses into her personal life.

Her social media strategy focuses on authenticity and empowerment. A typical week of posts might include:

• Monday: Motivational quote and weekly goals
• Tuesday: Behind-the-scenes look at her RideTV segment
• Wednesday: Workout routine or healthy recipe
• Thursday: #TBT to her rodeo queen days
• Friday: New product launch or collaboration announcement
• Saturday: Family time with Bella
• Sunday: Reflection on the week and inspiration for the week ahead

This consistent and varied content has helped Lexie maintain a strong connection with her audience and attract new followers interested in Western lifestyle and personal development.

Lessons Learned and Personal Reflections

Lexie’s journey from rodeo queen to divorced single mother to successful entrepreneur has been filled with valuable lessons. In a recent interview with Women’s Rodeo World magazine, she shared some of her most important takeaways:

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of self-worth. For so long, I defined myself through my relationships and titles. Now, I know that my value comes from within. It’s been a challenging journey, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

She also emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability:

“Life in the rodeo world teaches you to roll with the punches. That skill has been invaluable in my personal life too. When things don’t go as planned, you dust yourself off and keep moving forward.”

The Rodeo Community’s Response

How Fans and Fellow Riders Reacted to the Split

The separation of Lexie and J.B. was initially met with shock and sadness from the rodeo community. Many fans had seen them as the ultimate rodeo power couple and were disappointed to see their relationship end.

However, as both Lexie and J.B. navigated their split with grace and continued to support each other publicly, the community rallied around them. Fellow riders and rodeo personalities praised their maturity and commitment to co-parenting.

Notable Reactions:

• Ty Murray, rodeo legend: “J.B. and Lexie are showing us all how to handle tough times with class. They’re putting their daughter first, and that’s what really matters.”
• Flint Rasmussen, PBR entertainer: “The rodeo world is a family. We support our own through good times and bad. J.B. and Lexie will always be part of this family.”

The Impact on Sponsorships and Partnerships

Initially, there were concerns about how the split might affect J.B. and Lexie’s sponsorship deals. However, both proved their individual marketability:

• J.B. maintained his major sponsorships with Wrangler, Monster Energy, and Resistol
• Lexie’s personal brand grew, attracting partnerships with companies like Ariat, Cavender’s, and Justin Boots

In fact, Lexie’s journey resonated with many brands looking to connect with strong, independent women in the Western lifestyle market. Her authenticity and resilience became key selling points for potential partners.

Changing Perceptions of Rodeo Relationships

The high-profile nature of Lexie and J.B.’s split sparked conversations about the unique challenges faced by couples in the rodeo world. It led to increased awareness and support for athletes struggling to balance their personal lives with the demands of the sport.

Several initiatives emerged in the wake of these discussions:

1. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) introduced a family support program, offering counseling services to athletes and their families
2. RideTV produced a documentary series, “Love and Rodeo,” exploring the dynamics of relationships in the rodeo community
3. Rodeo schools began incorporating relationship and life skills workshops into their curricula

Looking Ahead: Lexie’s Future Plans

Professional Aspirations

As Lexie looks to the future, she has several exciting projects on the horizon:

1. Expanding Her Brand: Plans are underway to launch “Lexie’s Lasso” stores in major Western wear markets like Dallas and Nashville
2. Television Development: Lexie is in talks with a major network to develop a reality show focusing on empowering women in the Western lifestyle industry
3. Philanthropy: She’s establishing the Lexie Mercer Foundation, aimed at supporting single mothers in rural communities

Personal Goals and Potential New Relationships

While Lexie has been open about her journey as a single mother, she hasn’t ruled out the possibility of finding love again. In a recent podcast interview, she shared:

“I’m in a great place right now, focused on my daughter and my career. If the right person comes along, that would be wonderful. But I’m not in any rush. I’ve learned to be happy and fulfilled on my own.”

Her immediate personal goals include:

• Completing a half-marathon
• Learning to play the guitar
• Taking Bella on an international trip to experience different cultures

Her Role in the Rodeo World Moving Forward

Lexie remains committed to the rodeo community that has been such a significant part of her life. She continues to use her platform to advocate for the sport and support young athletes.

Future plans in this area include:

• Establishing a mentorship program for aspiring rodeo queens
• Collaborating with rodeo organizations to promote safety and animal welfare
• Using her media presence to bring rodeo to a wider audience

The Lasting Legacy of Lexie and J.B.’s Relationship

Impact on Rodeo Culture

The story of Lexie and J.B. has left an indelible mark on rodeo culture. Their relationship, and subsequent separation, humanized the larger-than-life figures of the rodeo world and sparked important conversations about work-life balance in the sport.

Lessons for Other Couples in the Spotlight

Their journey offers valuable lessons for other high-profile couples, not just in rodeo but in any demanding profession:

1. Communication is key: Both Lexie and J.B. have emphasized the importance of open, honest communication, especially when facing challenges
2. Maintain individual identities: Lexie’s success post-separation highlights the importance of nurturing one’s own passions and interests
3. Prioritize co-parenting: Their commitment to Bella’s well-being has been unwavering, setting a positive example for others
4. Handle public scrutiny with grace: Their dignified approach to their separation earned them respect from fans and peers alike

How Their Story Continues to Resonate in the Rodeo Community

Years after their separation, Lexie and J.B.’s story continues to inspire and influence the rodeo world:

• Young couples in the rodeo circuit often cite them as examples of how to navigate the challenges of the lifestyle
• Their individual successes post-separation serve as motivation for those facing personal setbacks
• The support they received from the rodeo community reinforces the tight-knit nature of the sport

As both Lexie and J.B. continue to evolve in their personal and professional lives, their journey serves as a testament to the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of the rodeo world. Their story is far from over, and the rodeo community watches with interest and support as they write their next chapters.