World Champion Bareback Rider Dean Thompson is Cancer Free

SAN ANGELO, TX — A world champion rodeo cowboy has beat cancer.

Earlier this year, Dean Thompson was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, a fast moving and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. On Thursday, it was announced that Thompson is cancer free. 

In an Instagram story, Thompson rang the ball.

Thompson’s diagnoses came after an injury at the Cave Creek Rodeo in Arizona, where scans revealed a mass that a later biopsy confirmed.

According to Cowboy Plus, Thompson's recovery came after 40 chemotherapy treatments, six lumbar punctures and months of treatment.

Thompson's wife, Chezney, said in a post:

"After months of chemo, transfusions, countless tears, and even more prayers... THE SCANS CAME BACK CLEAN! Deano, I'm so proud of you and all you've overcome. God had a plan through every step of this journey. He knew there was growth waiting for us in it.

"To our incredible community – thank you will never be enough. You didn't just check in... you showed up. We will never forget that kindness and support we've had since day one.

"NO MO CHEMO"

Doctors have given Thompson less than a 10% chance of the cancer returning.

In 2024, Thompson was the No. 1-ranked bareback rider in the world. He placed fifth in the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo’s Cinch Chute-out in 2025 and second in 2024.