The stakes couldn't be higher at this year's American Rodeo, where a staggering $2 million prize pool awaits the champions. With all three regional finals now complete, the stage is set for an unforgettable Championship weekend. From each regional, five contestants have earned their spot, joining the top five from last year's PRCA/WPRA world standings. The challenge? Beat the world's best and claim your share of that life-changing prize money.

The West Regional Finals, held in Las Vegas, was the final gateway to Arlington. In the tie-down roping event, the competition was fierce, with only five ropers punching their tickets to the championship. Ten-time NFR qualifier Cory Solomon emerged as the man to beat, securing the event win and positioning himself as a serious threat for the $2 million jackpot.

At 36 years old, this Texas cowboy is proving that experience and skill are a powerful combination. With a career spanning two decades, Solomon remains at the top of his game. After a recent round win at the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo, he shared his confidence on social media: "I haven't felt this good in years." Currently sitting in the top 35 of the 2026 standings, Solomon is hungry to return to the NFR stage—his last appearance was in 2023—and Vegas has been good to him, including this year's American Rodeo.

Consistency was Solomon's secret weapon at the West Regional Finals. He opened with a solid 8.18-second run, good for second place, then followed it up with another second-place finish at 8.13 seconds. That steady performance put him atop the aggregate leaderboard heading into the final round. When it mattered most, he delivered a blazing 7.73-second run to claim the event title.

Now, Solomon heads to Globe Life Field in Arlington, where he'll compete as a contender with a $2 million opportunity on the line. But the road won't be easy. He'll face 14 other talented contenders and five of the best PRCA cowboys in the world. Joining him from the West Regional Finals are California talent K.C. Miller, three-time world champion Tuf Cooper, two-time NFR qualifier Dylan Hancock, and college standout Lane Webb. Together, they'll form a powerhouse group vying for the 2026 American Rodeo title on May 22nd.