When the votes were counted, one truck stood out from the crowd.

Alfalfa Cruiser Takes People’s Choice

Jason Flores earned the People’s Choice award with his truck known as “Alfalfa Cruiser,” a 2018 Peterbilt 389 paired with 2018 XL double flatbeds. The award is decided by fellow participants and attendees, making it one of the most talked-about wins of the show.

The combination of detail, presentation, and overall presence helped it rise above a packed field of competitors.

Big Rig Build Off Draws Top Builders

Another highlight of the event was the Big Rig Build Off, where top builders go head-to-head under time pressure to create a standout show truck.

This year’s title went to Randy Menkel of Never Satisfied Builds and J and L Contracting with a 1985 Peterbilt 359. The competition also featured returning competitor Luke Rethwisch of Rethwisch Transport and James Stegall of Stegall’s Truck Shop.

Best of Show Standouts

Several trucks across limited mileage categories made a strong impression:

Limited Mileage Bobtail with Miles

• Best of Show: Darryl Beger with “Mint Condition,” a 2019 Peterbilt 389
• Second: Bryant Mann with “Ribbon Runner,” a 1998 Peterbilt 379
• Third: Josh and Jayson Loyer with “Tax Exempt,” a 1989 Mack Superliner

Limited Mileage Bobtail with No Miles

• Best of Show: CJ Nairn with a 2025 Kenworth W900L
• Second: Jared Nelson with “Curb Appeal,” a 2022 Peterbilt 389
• Third: Eddie Homfeld with “Crown Jewel,” a 2024 Peterbilt 389

Limited Mileage Combo

• Best of Show: Chad and Brad Sand with “Asphalt Outlaw,” a 2016 Peterbilt 389 and 2018 Mac trailer
• Second: Jason Flores with “Alfalfa Cruiser,” a 2018 Peterbilt 389 and 2018 XL double flatbeds
• Third: Jerry Mies with “Mooving Violation,” a 2007 Peterbilt 379 and 2022 Walker

Working Trucks That Still Shine

The working truck categories continue to prove that daily-use equipment can compete at a high level.

Working Truck Bobtail

• Best of Show: Phillip Couch with “New Testament,” a 1999 Freightliner Classic XL
• Second: Austin Badders with “Fine Wine,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Third: Ashton Kaley with a 1995 Kenworth W900

Working Truck Combo

• Best of Show: Blake Ray with a 2020 Peterbilt 389 and 2026 Mac trailer
• Second: Tucker Jacob with a 2024 Peterbilt 389 and a 2024 Eby
• Third: John Treadway with “Teal Appeal,” a 1998 Peterbilt 379 and 2017 Great Dane

Antique Iron Still Turns Heads

Classic trucks had a strong showing across multiple categories, highlighting the continued appreciation for older equipment kept in top condition.

Antique Original Bobtail

• First: Ethan Tipton with “Wildcard,” a 1972 Brockway 457
• Second: Thomas Menges with “Sweet, Smooth & Sassy,” a 1986 Mack Superliner
• Third: Earl Chapman with “Pearl,” a 1966 Peterbilt 352

Antique Custom Bobtail

• First: Jaden Warner with a 1988 Peterbilt 362
• Second: Brian Sweet with a 1979 Kenworth W900A
• Third: Casey Field with “Curley,” a 1969 Peterbilt 359

Additional Category Winners

Several other categories highlighted everything from paint and lighting to interiors and new equipment:

• New Truck: Douglas Prier with a 2026 Kenworth W900
• Wrecker: Jacob Ripley with “Wreckless Behavior,” a 2025 Kenworth W900B
• Troy “The Legend” Huddleston Award: Tyler LaMontagne with “Nelly Bell,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Rockwood Running Late Award: Paul Brookhart with “Pendleton,” a 2001 Peterbilt 379
• Bette Garber Memorial Award: Austin Badders with “Sexual Chocolate,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Bennett Louisville Invite Winner: Tucker Jacob with a 2024 Peterbilt 389 and 2024 Eby

What This Year’s Show Delivered

From fully restored classics to modern working trucks built for both function and presentation, this year’s PKY Championship showed how much pride goes into every detail. Whether it’s chrome, paint, fabrication, or upkeep, the level of effort behind each entry was on full display.

With nearly 200 trucks competing, earning a spot at the top in any category says a lot about the build and the people behind it.

The post 2026 PKY Truck Beauty Championship Winners Revealed as Alfalfa Cruiser Earns People’s Choice appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The show runs March 26 through 28 in Louisville, Kentucky, and the Build Off is set to be one of its biggest attractions once again.

“The Big Rig Build-Off is one of the most exciting events at MATS because it represents the very best of trucking innovation and artistry,” said Toby Young, MATS President. “We’re thrilled to welcome back this fan-favorite competition and showcase the passion and dedication of these outstanding builders.”

Four Builders, One Grand Prize

Just like delivery drivers take pride in a clean ride and a well-organized vehicle, these builders pour everything into designing machines that blend beauty and performance. The 2026 lineup features four well-known names in the custom truck world.

Luke Rethwisch, Rethwisch Transport LLC – The reigning Big Rig Build Off champion from Tomah, Wisconsin, Rethwisch continues his family’s tradition of truck building. His builds combine classic design with today’s technology, proving that skill and pride never go out of style.

James Stegall, Stegall’s Truck Shop – Working out of Perryville, Missouri, Stegall is recognized for his clean, detailed craftsmanship. After earning praise for his award-winning “Afternoon Delight” at a previous MATS show, he’s back to compete with another high-standard build that shows what patience and precision can do.

Randy Menkel, Never Satisfied Builds/J&L Contracting LLC – As Project Manager at Never Satisfied Builds, Menkel leads a team known for transforming heavy haul trucks into stunning showpieces. Their flawless fabrication and attention to perfection have earned them a reputation for pushing boundaries, and this competition is another chance to prove it.

Andrew Ditz, Stickerbilt Customs LLC – Founder of Stickerbilt Customs and a former builder with Chrome Shop Mafia, Ditz is all about hidden precision and sleek design. Every detail matters, and it shows in his reputation for spotless finishes and craftsmanship that goes beyond what’s visible.

Where to See the Builds

If you’re heading to MATS, the PKY Truck Beauty Championship Lot in front of the West Wing is where you’ll want to be. Attendees can check out each truck up close, meet the builders, and see the kind of care and pride that goes into each machine.

Just like the perfect route plan or a spotless vehicle makes a difference in last-mile work, these custom rigs reflect the same dedication to doing things right.

A panel of expert judges will evaluate each truck on creativity, attention to detail, and overall execution. The winner will be revealed at the PKY Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 28, at 10 a.m.

Whether you’re hauling freight or delivering packages, something is inspiring about watching people who take their craft seriously. These builders remind every driver, long haul or last mile, that pride in your ride always shows.

Image Source: MATS

Other Source: Overdrive

The post Big Rigs, Big Competition: 2026 MATS Build Off Brings Custom Truck Builders Head to Head appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The 2025 Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) is gearing up for an exciting showdown, as five of the most skilled and creative custom truck builders compete for a massive $25,000 cash prize in the prestigious Big Rig Build-Off. Returning after another successful year, the event will feature jaw-dropping craftsmanship and innovative designs, all vying to impress the judges and attendees alike.

Last year, Davis Brothers Designs stole the show with their stunning 2024 Peterbilt 389, capturing the top honor in the 2024 competition. Brothers Brian and Tom Davis will return this year in an effort to defend their title with a brand-new custom creation.

The Big Rig Build-Off is a highlight of the PKY Truck Beauty Championship, which takes place during MATS from March 27-29 in Louisville, Kentucky. Builders will be judged on their creativity, attention to detail, and the overall quality of their designs.

Meet the Five Featured Builders

1. Luke Rethwisch, Rethwisch Transport

Luke Rethwisch might be one of the youngest builders in this year’s competition, but he’s already making waves. Growing up in a trucking family, Luke started honing his craft at the age of six, polishing and competing alongside his parents, Bill and Sayra, who launched Rethwisch Transport in 2009. His entry for the Build-Off is set to be his personal work truck, which he’ll drive when he turns 18.

2. Randy Manning, Randy M Manning LLC

A MATS regular with over 25 years of experience, Randy Manning has made a name for himself in both trucking and custom truck building. Based in Winchester, Virginia, Randy’s passion for trucks began in childhood, following in the footsteps of his father, who started trucking in the 1970s. Specializing in transforming semi-trucks into dump trucks and revitalizing old dump trucks with paint jobs, chrome, and modern lights, Randy’s builds are a testament to his innovative spirit.

3. Billy Warner Jr. and Cody Warner, William R. Warner Jr. Trucking

Operating from Circleville, West Virginia, William R. Warner Jr. Trucking is synonymous with trucking excellence across industries. Founder Bill Warner built his business from the ground up, starting with a single dump truck he purchased at 18. Over the course of three decades, his fleet has expanded to include more than 10 working trucks and several stunning show trucks. With a particular love for classic models, the Warners have previously showcased a 1981 and a 1987 Peterbilt 359 at national truck events. Billy Warner Jr. and Cody Warner are continuing that tradition in the 2025 Build-Off.

4. Brian and Thomas Davis, Davis Brothers Designs

The defending champions are back! Davis Brothers Designs, a full-service custom truck operation headquartered in Owensville, Indiana, is owned by Brian and Tom Davis. Initially grain farmers, the brothers founded RK Transport Inc., a trucking company serving the agricultural industry. Their trucks, often characterized by custom paint, chrome details, standout lighting, and massive audio systems, wowed last year’s judges. The Davises hope to replicate their 2024 glory this year.

5. Jordan Henderson, JSH Trucking

JSH Trucking, founded in the 1990s by Johnny Henderson, began as a one-man operation with a single cabover truck. Today, the business has grown to include multiple locations and a diverse team of employees. Expanding into new ventures, JSH now also runs a 24/7 towing and repair service. Jordan Henderson, Johnny’s son, continues his father’s legacy by building award-winning custom trucks. His skill and dedication will undoubtedly make him a strong contender in this year’s competition.

A Celebration of Talent and Creativity

The 2025 Big Rig Build-Off promises to be a thrilling event, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship and ingenuity of some of the best custom truck builders in the industry. With $25,000 on the line and reputations at stake, the competition will undoubtedly push these builders to produce their most impressive work yet.

Source: Overdrive

Image: Overdrive

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