The ATVMX community is saddened by the news of the passing of ATVMX Legend and Champion, Joe Byrd, 53. On Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Union City, Tennessee, Joe, passed away surrounded by his family after recently being diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer.

Widely known and deeply respected throughout the sport, Joe embodied everything that defined a true champion — passion, grit, humility, and an unrelenting drive to be better every time he lined up at the gate. For those who watched him race, Joe wasn’t just fast — he was fearless, precise and impossibly smooth.

Over the course of his career, Joe rose to the highest levels of professional competition in the AMA Pro ATV Motocross National Championship Series, establishing himself as one of the sport’s elite riders. His work ethic was legendary, and his results spoke for themselves. He reached the pinnacle of the sport as a two-time AMA Pro ATV Motocross National Champion, earning the coveted ATVA National No. 1 Plate in 2006 and 2007.

With more than 35 professional class victories, he delivered unforgettable performances across the country. Fans still talk about the day he swept both motos at Birch Creek for a 1–1 overall, the commanding overall win and Holeshot Award at RedBud, and his double-moto sweep at Oak Hill, Texas. At Loretta Lynn Ranch, he captured the prestigious ITP Tires Grand Slam Championship, adding yet another highlight to an already storied career.

Even as the years went on, Joe’s competitive fire never faded. He proved time and again that heart and determination never age — posting the fastest qualifying time at Budds Creek Raceway in 2012 and, most recently, setting the fastest lap in the 2024 Legends Race. No matter the era, no matter the track, Joe remained a force.

What made Joe truly special wasn’t only the trophies or the number one plates. It was the way he carried himself — the respect he showed competitors, the encouragement he gave younger riders, and the quiet professionalism that made everyone around him better. He represented the sport with integrity and class, and he inspired countless riders to chase their own dreams.

A celebration of life will be conducted 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Edmaiston Mosley Funeral Home. Pastor Ronnie Coleman will officiate. Visitation will be on Saturday at Edmaiston Mosley Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial to Hometown Walk of Hope, 902 Perkins Street, Union City, TN  38261.

He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and eternally honored in the world of ATV racing. Godspeed, Joe.