For three consecutive years, from 2022 to 2024, Belgian freestyle motocross (FMX) star Julien Vanstippen dominated the King of the Whip competition in South Africa.

But last year, that winning streak came to a halt when American rider Wyatt Fontenot captured the title.

Now, as the event prepares to return to Montecasino in Johannesburg on November 7, Vanstippen is headed back with a single-minded focus: reclaiming his crown.

"Winning three years in a row was incredible, but losing the title last year definitely made me hungry to come back stronger," Vanstippen told Eyewitness News.

"I love this event, and I always want to push my limits. I'm coming back with one goal-get that crown again."

Vanstippen arrives in South Africa with significant momentum, having recently claimed his third X Games Best Whip gold medal.

While the international victory proves his skills remain at an elite level, he is quick to acknowledge that contest presents its own set of hurdles-including physical ones.

FMX Athlete and seven-time X Games champion Julien Vanstippen. Picture: Photos by Eric Palmer and Cloud9 Photography.

"Winning my third X Games gold was a huge moment for me, he said.

"It proves that the hard work is paying off and that I'm still progressing. But every competition is different, and nothing is guaranteed. I'm feeling confident; my riding is at a really good place lately despite my struggling with ankle injuries, but I'm ready to give everything in South Africa."

A major highlight of the event is the fierce rivalry between Vanstippen and Fontenote. When the lights go down at Montecasino, the pressure to deliver massive, gravity-defying manoeuvres reaches a peak.

"Wyatt is an incredible rider, and I have a lot of respect for what he does," Vanstippen said.

"We both push the limits of what's possible on a dirt bike, and that's what makes the competition so exciting. When you know someone is capable of throwing something crazy, it pushes you to go even bigger."

Widely regarded as a master of style in the FMX world, Vanstippen places heavy emphasis on execution and technique when launching his bike off the ramps.

FMX Athlete and seven-time X Games champion Julien Vanstippen. Picture: Photos by Eric Palmer and Cloud9 Photography.

"For me, style is everything," he explained. "It's not just about getting the bike completely sideways; it's about how you get there, how much you go upside down and how you bring it back. I always try to make my whip as big, smooth and stylish as possible. I want people to recognise my riding without even seeing who's on the bike."

Beyond his rivalry with Fontenote, Vanstippen faces growing pressure from local South African competitors, including riders like Dallan Goldman, who are eager to keep the trophy on home soil.

Rather than feeling threatened by the rising competition, the Belgian welcomes the challenge.

"It's amazing to see how much the level is growing in South Africa," he noted.

"There are some seriously talented riders there, and they're not afraid to push against the international guys. That's exactly what the sport needs. The more riders pushing the limits, the better the show and the higher the level of competition."

The electric atmosphere of the night-time finale- complete with pyrotechnics and thousands of vocal fans- provides the final burst of energy Vanstippen needs as he prepares to launch off the ramp.

"The atmosphere in South Africa is honestly one of the best in the world," Vanstippen said.

I've been working hard, pushing my riding and trying to take my whip to another level. I'm not coming all the way to South Africa just to participate. I want that title back, and I'll do everything I can to make it happen."

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