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  • Speed Promotions Series Officially Cancelled – What’s Next for Big Tire No Prep Racing?

    Sometimes in racing, the news we don’t want to hear ends up being the news we all knew was coming. Unfortunately, that’s the case with the Speed Promotions Series. It’s now official: the entire series, including the all-32 big tire championship and the highly anticipated small tire $100,000-to-win Galot race, has been cancelled. For fans of no prep racing, this one stings. Not only are the final two championship events called off, but one of the biggest payout races of the year is gone too. Many of us had been looking forward to seeing some of the best in the game line up for that Galot event, including names tied to Street Outlaws  and NPK competition. Photo by Youtube @stoutlawsnopreptalk Why the Series Fell Apart At the end of the day, the issue boiled down to one thing—car count. Over the past couple of years, the number of entries for these races dropped drastically. At one point, events were pulling more than 30 cars, with overflow entries creating some of the most exciting qualifying rounds around. But fast-forward to the most recent events, and the field shrank to just a dozen cars. With that kind of turnout, the writing was on the wall. Fewer cars means fewer fans in the stands, and with no television show backing the series anymore, the financial math just didn’t make sense. Anyone who’s ever been involved in putting on races knows just how expensive it is. From track prep to safety crews to payouts, costs pile up quickly. Without strong car counts and packed stands, the series simply couldn’t survive. Photo by Youtube @stoutlawsnopreptalk Remembering the Good Times It’s tough news for fans who love seeing steel-bodied big tire cars run blistering numbers in no prep conditions. Just a few years ago, at an NPK event in Palm Beach, the scene was electric—over 40 cars showed up to race their way into the main show. The atmosphere, the rivalries, and the sheer horsepower on display made it unforgettable. That’s the kind of racing fans wanted to see more of, but keeping that energy alive proved to be harder than expected once the TV backing was gone. Speed Promotions tried to keep it alive, but the momentum just wasn’t there. What Could Be Next So, where does this leave the racers and fans? That’s the big question. A lot of people are already speculating that many of these cars could end up racing in IHRA’s growing Pro Mod scene, which has been gaining attention lately. There’s also hope that another promoter or series might step up and find a way to keep big tire no prep racing alive at the level fans expect. The passion is still there—it’s just a matter of finding the right format, payout structure, and fan base to support it. Photo by Justin Swanstrom As for the cancelled Galot race, that’s probably the hardest pill to swallow. With $100,000 on the line for small tire cars, it promised to be one of the wildest races of the season. Big names were lined up to compete, including former Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings  driver Justin Swanstrom, who had already paid multiple entry fees. Fans were buzzing about the potential matchups, and losing that kind of marquee event is a real blow. The Bottom Line It hurts to see this series come to an end. Speed Promotions had the right idea, but without car count, fan turnout, or TV coverage, the numbers just didn’t add up. Still, if there’s one thing we’ve learned from the world of street and no prep racing, it’s that the scene never stays quiet for long. Racers and fans alike have too much passion to let it fade away completely. Whether it’s IHRA, a new series, or something unexpected, the future of no prep racing isn’t done—it’s just heading in a new direction. For now, we can only look ahead and see where the racers go next. One thing’s for sure: we’ll be keeping you updated every step of the way here at Street Outlaws Talks .

  • Justin Swanstrom’s Latest Ride: The 48/40 Camaro & Beyond

    Well, y’all, buckle up—because the Swanstrom racing empire just got even more monsterous. If you thought Justin Swanstrom was already unstoppable, think again. Not only did he drop jaws all year winning six of the seven No Time Shootout finals he entered, but he just dropped into 48/40—and the results are looking insane. Photo by Heather Johnson 48/40 Camaro: The New Beast on the Block Justin just scooped up a sleek new Camaro, decked out with a 48/40 engine package and, yep—that signature nitrous setup. If you know Swanstrom, you know “really fast” is an understatement. This ride isn’t just a hot rod—it’s the latest weapon in his lineup, and I have zero doubt it’s gonna break necks out on the strip. Swanstrom’s Car Kingdom: It’s Huge Let’s be real: Justin’s garage looks like Fast and Furious meets the Army of Drag. I mean, seriously— how many race cars does this dude have?  Off the top of my head: Moneybag  – his Camaro ProMod that just ramped up from 98% to 128% overdrive. That’s right—he’s pushing that thing harder than ever. Outdated  – a screwed-blown Hemi Mustang with serious pedigree. Built for Speed Promotions (even if it never really raced there), and still one of my personal favorites. Prenup  – his sharp, all-steel, all-glass Lexus-based brute. I can’t wait to see how this one burns up the quarter at all-steel, all-glass events. And just so you know: this is your  Street Outlaws Talks style of excitement—not any other brand’s promo. Then of course—with Todd Fain  teaming up—you’ve got Sir Vincent , now moving into Pro275 territory. That car’s stepping into weight-rule, overdrive territory. Class racing’s about to get real interesting. With Todd’s build game plus Justin’s driving, that Pro275 class is in for a show. Photo by Justin Swanstrom Promod Corvette & Swanfest But hold on—there’s more. Justin’s got a fresh Promod Corvette nearly ready to let loose. Promod Corvette coming soon to an event near you—brace yourselves. And what’s Swanstrom without a legend-sized event? Swanfest  is hitting tracks this October. Expect massive payouts, No Time and all-steel/all-glass showdowns, and, of course, a packed house. The stakes are high—and so is the adrenaline. Why This Matters—And Why You’re Loving It Street Outlaws Talks  isn’t just reporting; we’re celebrating real passion. We get how Justin’s build numbers and wins are more than stats—they’re a story of hustle. Authentic Excitement —No over-the-top hype just for track attention. This is genuine, unfiltered racing fandom, powered by your voice. Big Names, Bigger Builds —Justin, Todd, Moneybag, Outdated, Prenup, Sir Vincent—these are more than cars; they’re icons in the making. Photo by Justin Swanstrom Final Lap Thoughts Justin Swanstrom’s racing operation has never been bigger or more exciting. From winning No Time finals to launching into the 48/40 world, building a Promod Corvette, and gearing up for Swanfest—he’s doing it all and doing it his  way. And here on Street Outlaws Talks , we’ll be right here, tracking it all—ride by ride, win by win. Because when a legend like Swanstrom keeps stacking track records and builds, you bet we’re pulling up a seat and leaning in. Stay tuned, stay revved, and let’s watch this beast run.

  • How Old Is Justin Swanstrom Today? The Truth Behind His Rise in Street Outlaws

    Here’s the short answer up top: Justin Swanstrom is 29 years old. He was born on February 23, 1996, and turned 29 on February 23, 2025. That date lines up cleanly with multiple public breadcrumbs—birthday shout-outs from 2021 and 2025 and a 2021 “30 Under 30” profile that pegged him at 25 at the time. Photo by Heather Johnson If you follow No Prep Kings or the broader Street Outlaws universe, you’ve probably watched Swanstrom’s racing career grow in real time. He came up fast, both literally and figuratively, with that blend of raw speed, showmanship, and relentless content creation that keeps fans feeling like they’re riding shotgun. In 2021, Drag Illustrated featured him in its “30 Under 30,” calling out the way he cultivated a fanbase across YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram while stacking competitive results on track—context that matches the timeline of a driver born in 1996 and hitting his mid-20s right as his public profile exploded. Public posts help pin the age precisely. On February 23, 2021, a racing outlet wished him a happy 25th birthday. Four years later to the day, fans and family were again posting “29th birthday” messages. Those two bookends—25 in 2021, 29 in 2025—are exactly what you’d expect for someone born on February 23, 1996. Even outside the racing bubble, a Florida public directory lists a “Justin Douglas Swanstrom” as born in February 1996, which lines up with the same conclusion. Take the signals together and it’s a simple bit of calendar math to confirm: as of today (August 20, 2025), he’s 29. Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography Of course, ages aren’t just trivia for driver cards—they frame a career arc. At 29, Swanstrom sits in that sweet spot where experience and fearlessness overlap. He’s got enough laps to be dangerous and enough time ahead to keep reinventing himself. That’s especially true given how he’s mixed racing with media. Swanstrom understood early that modern motorsports isn’t only decided by win lights; it’s shaped by how you bring fans along for the ride. His weekly vlogs, shop walk-throughs, behind-the-scenes looks at fresh parts and new combos—those have been a constant, and they’re part of why fans feel invested in the man behind the wheel, not just the ET on the slip. The 2021 profile highlighted that approach and, if anything, he’s doubled down since. Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography Age also helps put his recent moves in perspective. In February 2025, Swanstrom publicly confirmed that his Street Outlaws/Speed Promotions Racing contract wouldn’t be renewed. For a driver nearing 30 with a strong independent brand, a change like that is less an ending and more a reset button. The reporting at the time captured that tone—confident, determined, focused on writing the next chapter on his own terms. That’s exactly the posture you’d expect from a competitor who already knows how to build momentum with or without a TV banner. Another reason fans ask “how old is he?” is that Swanstrom’s path isn’t the stereotypical single-lane climb. Before he became a fixture in No Prep Kings, he mixed grudge racing roots with a quick study approach to new combinations (remember the shift into ProCharger power), and he’s been open about the trial-and-error that comes with trying to go quicker and faster on camera. That willingness to let people see the ugly in-between—broken parts, late nights, the budget math of big-power drag racing—resonates with younger fans and seasoned racers alike. It’s also why his 29 feels like a midpoint, not a peak.

  • The Real Story of What Happened to Daddy Dave from Street Outlaws

    Here’s the short version up top: Daddy Dave (David Comstock) is still racing. He’s had two widely reported wrecks—the big one in 2015 and another in 2021—but he rebuilt, returned, unveiled a new Audi S5 No Prep Kings car, and even snagged an NPK Invitational win. He’s been teasing and posting 2025 appearances, so rumors that he “left” are off base. Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography If you’ve followed Street Outlaws since the early seasons, you already know Dave’s story is equal parts speed and stubbornness. The moment that cemented his “nine lives” reputation came on August 1, 2015, at Amarillo Dragway. Driving the nitrous Chevy II Nova known as “Goliath,” Dave lost control just past the hit and flipped violently. It was ugly. His wife, Cassi, updated fans from the hospital: serious concussion, a bruised lung, and plenty of bumps and bruises—but he was alive and stable. News outlets carried those details at the time, and they match what fans saw in the aftermath. What came next is classic Comstock: rebuild, don’t mope. The original car’s wreckage became the seed for “Goliath 2.0,” a cleaner, meaner Chevy II that showed up not long after. Hot Rod’s look at the new build captured how the twisted remains of the first Goliath lingered behind his shop while the replacement came together—a reminder of the crash and the motivation to keep going. Photo by Daddy Dave Fast forward to the No Prep Kings era and the second major scare. In late June 2021 at South Georgia Motorsports Park, Dave suffered another high-speed crash during NPK competition. Coverage from the drag racing press at the time walked through the “putting the pieces back together” phase yet again—same grit, same work ethic. By October, video and articles showed Goliath back on track and looking fresh, proving the turnaround wasn’t just talk. Then came a curveball: Dave unveiled a totally different animal for NPK—a Pro-Mod-style Audi S5 built with the FuelTech crew and Tynan Race Cars. Revealed at SEMA in November 2022, the Audi signaled he wasn’t just returning—he was raising the stakes with a 3,000-plus horsepower package purpose-built for sketchy surfaces. If you’ve seen his test-hit videos since, you know the thing leaves like it’s been slapped. Did the new combo pan out? In 2023, Dave finally notched his first NPK Invitational event win at Beech Bend Raceway Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky—one of those milestones he’d chased for years. The win mattered because it answered the “can he still hang at the sharp end” question with a loud yes. So where is he now? Despite the occasional YouTube rumor mill declaring retirements, feuds, or worse, Dave’s own channels tell a different story. He’s been posting about schedules and appearances for 2025 and engaging with fans about where they’ll see him next. That public forward-looking chatter is a strong indicator he’s not done; he’s planning. Photo by Daddy Dave One more thing fans often ask is whether those wrecks changed his approach. From the outside, you can see the evolution: safety and setup have come to the foreground. The Audi build leans into modern EFI and data, serious suspension hardware, and a package that can be tuned precisely as track temps swing and rubber comes and goes. He’s been featured talking about shock tech—four-way adjustable MOD-series pieces that help manage both the violent hit and the mid-track bumps that can turn a pass into a highlight reel for all the wrong reasons. That focus tracks with a guy who’s been upside down and came back wiser. If you strip away the noise, the through-line is simple. In 2015, Dave flipped a beloved car and got hurt, then built another. In 2021, he crashed again, rebuilt again, and soon after leveled up to an S5 that fits NPK’s escalating arms race. By 2023, he stood in the winner’s circle at an Invitational. And as of mid-2025, he’s teasing the next round. Whatever “happened” to Daddy Dave is the same thing that’s always happened: he takes punches most racers never see, then shows up at the next tree looking like trouble. That’s why people still crowd the fence when his lanes go hot. Daddy Dave hasn’t disappeared—he’s adapted. The headlines you remember (the 2015 Amarillo crash, the 2021 NPK wreck) are only the middle of the story. The latest chapters include an Audi S5 built for no-prep brutality, a long-earned Invitational win, and an active slate of appearances rolling into 2025. If you’re wondering “what happened to Daddy Dave,” the best answer is: he kept going. And he’s still going.

  • Murder Nova Leads the Championship in Speed Promotions Outlaw 32

    The 2025 season of the Speed Promotions Outlaw 32 Series  has been nothing short of wild, and this past weekend in Spokane only added to the drama. With a small but fierce field of big-tire cars, the action was intense, and the championship standings are starting to take shape. At the front of it all is none other than Sean “Murder Nova” Ellington , who now sits at the top of the leaderboard. Photo by Cory Vandersanden Sean picked up his second win of the season  this weekend, adding to an already strong performance throughout the year. His car continues to prove itself as one of the most consistent machines in no prep racing. On a surface where grip is unpredictable and conditions change run after run, consistency is often the deciding factor, and Sean has mastered that balance. His dedication to testing and preparation is paying off in a big way. Current Championship Standings After Spokane, the points battle  is heating up: 1. Murder Nova – 155 points 2. Scott Taylor – 150 points 3. Chris Rankin – Close behind 4. Ryan Martin 5. Nate Sailor 6. Kye Kelley 7. Paige Coffin 8. Dean K.S. & Dave Mendes (tied) 10. Jeff Lutz It’s important to note that several racers have been hit with bad luck recently. Dean K.S. and Jeff Lutz both suffered crashes, with Jeff’s incident preventing him from racing this weekend despite the car being in solid condition otherwise. Mike Bowman also had a rough outing the weekend prior with another crash, while Cole Pez and Disco both went down in separate accidents—Disco in particular crashing during qualifying. Thankfully, he’s in good spirits and already planning his comeback. Photo by Megan Taylor Big Tire Field Shrinking? Only 12 big-tire cars  made the trip to Spokane, marking one of the lowest car counts so far this season. Distance and recent crashes have definitely taken a toll on participation. Some fans and racers are even starting to wonder if this could be the last big-tire season for large-scale no prep series like Speed Promotions or even NPK. Small-tire racing seems to be on the rise, but the future of big-tire competition is less certain. Ryan Martin and Kye Kelley Struggling on No Prep While Ryan Martin and Kye Kelley are still among the fastest in the field, their setups seem more suited for prepped surfaces. Ryan’s new Liberty transmission and ProCharger combination may be unmatched on a prep track, but when it comes to no prep, Murder Nova seems to have the edge. Kye’s car, meanwhile, is lightning-quick at promod events but struggles to put that same performance down when the surface isn’t treated. Photo by Murder Nova What’s Next? With Sean leading the pack, Scott Taylor right on his heels, and Chris Rankin still very much in the hunt, this points chase is far from over. A single round can flip the standings upside down, and with so many cars battling mechanical issues and crashes, survival is becoming just as important as speed. For now, Murder Nova is the man to beat . His program is dialed in, his car is working perfectly on no prep surfaces, and he’s proving why he’s one of the best in the game. But with plenty of racing left this season, the championship fight is only going to get more intense from here. Stay tuned to Street Outlaws Talks  for more updates, news, and behind-the-scenes coverage from the world of no prep racing.

  • Disco Dean’s Crash Aftermath at Spokane – What’s Next for His Car?

    This past weekend at the Speed Promotions event in Spokane, fans witnessed a scary moment when Disco Dean was involved in a pretty bad crash during the “Beat the Champs” qualifier against Chevy Reeves. Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography Both drivers were already out of the throttle before the finish line, but Disco’s car got loose and crossed into the other lane. Thankfully, he avoided Reeves and the situation didn’t end in a major collision. Still, Disco’s car slammed into the wall and took some heavy damage. The good news is that Disco Dean walked away without injury. In fact, he was seen signing autographs shortly after the crash, showing exactly why so many fans respect him both on and off the track. Later that night, he even went live on Facebook while he and his crew started disassembling the car to assess the damage. Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography From what we’ve seen, the car is definitely repairable. It’ll likely need a front half, possibly some back half work, and of course new body panels and a front end. While I’m no chassis builder, the main structure appears fixable, which means it’s just a matter of time before Disco gets this machine back in fighting shape. It’s tough to see this happen, especially because the car had been dialed in perfectly. At recent IHRA Pro Mod events, Disco was running in the low 3.70s in tough conditions, proving just how fast and consistent the setup was. The potential was there for a big season, and fans were excited to watch it unfold. But as we’ve said before—whether it was Cole Pez’s incident last week or countless other crashes over the years—these no-prep cars are always on the edge. Sometimes it’s not a question of if  something will happen, but when . Spokane was a tricky surface this weekend, and Disco was unfortunately the one caught out. Photo by Disco Dean Stinky Pinky The silver lining? He’s okay, the car will live to fight another day, and we all know Disco has the determination to come back stronger. If anything, we can probably expect an even sharper, faster car once the rebuild is complete. Looking ahead, Speed Promotions is still battling with a low car count in the big tire classes. Only about 11 cars were expected to compete in the Outlaw 32 Championship on Sunday, which raises some concerns for the future of the series. But for now, the focus is on Disco’s recovery and rebuild, and fans will be keeping a close eye on when that car makes its comeback. At Street Outlaws Talks , we’ll be watching closely and bringing you updates every step of the way. For now, we’re just grateful Disco walked away safe from what could’ve been a much worse outcome.

  • Nate Sayler’s Nova Back in Action at Spokane

    The drag racing world never slows down, and neither does Nate Sayler. After the recent fire that sidelined the legendary Gucci Nova , fans were left wondering when we’d see Nate back on the strip. While the Gucci Nova is in the shop being rebuilt, Nate isn’t sitting around—he’s bringing out another Nova to keep the racing going, this time at the Speed Promotions event in Spokane, Washington . Photo by Nate Sayler Racing The Gucci Nova Update A couple of weeks ago, the Gucci Nova was involved in a serious fire. While it looked bad, word is the car wasn’t a total loss. Damage photos haven’t been released, but insiders say the car is completely fixable  and already in the works of being brought back better than ever. Anyone who saw it in person—especially back when it had the twin turbo Hemi setup—knows just how stunning that car really is. It’s one of those builds that makes you stop and stare. The Return of the Big-Tire Nova While the Gucci Nova is being rebuilt, Nate isn’t staying out of competition. He pulled his Nova back out, this time sitting on big tires  instead of small. Along with the tire change, the car now sports a fresh nitrous system —something it wasn’t allowed to run in past seasons. The setup is similar to what the Gucci Nova was using, meaning Nate has plenty of power at his fingertips heading into Spokane. Photo by Nate Sayler Racing Big Tire vs. Small Tire – A Changing Scene One thing worth noting is the shift happening in the no prep world. Big tire counts are shrinking , and it’s starting to feel like the class could be in trouble. Some recent Speed Promotions events struggled to pull more than 18 big tire cars. Compare that to the small tire class, which saw an impressive 64 entries  not long ago. The momentum is clearly leaning toward small tire and even no-time classes like 275s. Still, there’s nothing quite like big tire racing. The speed, the sound, and the sheer aggression these cars bring is unmatched. And Nate’s Nova is exactly the kind of car that can remind people why this class matters. Photo by Nate Sayler Racing What to Expect at Spokane Nate’s Nova was already a serious contender under last season’s weight rules, but now those restrictions are gone. On top of that, with nitrous finally allowed, this car is set up to be faster than ever . Spokane’s event should give us a real taste of what this Nova can do, and if Nate has his way, fans are in for some serious passes down the track. It’s shaping up to be a solid weekend of racing in Washington. While the future of big tire may be uncertain, drivers like Nate Sayler prove that there’s still plenty of fire left in the class. All eyes will be on Spokane to see who comes out on top.

  • Monza’s Split Bumper Camaro Nears Completion with Huge Weight Loss

    When you think of the Street Outlaws OGs , few cars stand out more than Jerry “Monza” Johnston’s iconic split bumper Camaro. It’s been a staple of the show since the very beginning back in 2012, starting life as a nitrous car before evolving through twin turbos, and now, it’s gearing up for its next chapter with a ProCharged Hemi setup. Over the past few months, Monza’s Camaro has been undergoing some major changes, and it’s finally nearing completion. One of the biggest talking points isn’t just the new combination under the hood—it’s the drastic weight loss this car has achieved. Photo by Tim Moore From Heavy Hitter to Lean Machine At one point, Monza’s Camaro tipped the scales at well over 3,000 pounds. Even the last time we saw it with the twin-turbo 41X setup, it was still around 2,900 pounds. But thanks to a fresh front half, new front end, lightweight doors, and other updates, the car is now sitting at 2,341 pounds without a driver . Once race-ready with fuel and driver, the Camaro is expected to weigh in around 2,600–2,650 pounds . That’s a massive drop of more than 250 pounds compared to its last outing. For a steel-roof, steel-quarter-panel car, those are serious Pro Mod-level numbers. Photo by Team Monza 405 Power to Match the Weight The new setup features a ProCharged Hemi with an F4X-136 unit , a motor that actually came from Scott Taylor. Fans know that combo has already proven itself to be wickedly fast in Scott’s car, and now with Monza’s lighter chassis, the potential is huge. At roughly 2,650 pounds with driver , this Camaro is sitting right at the IHRA Pro Mod minimum weight for a ProCharged combo. That means Monza’s ride could potentially line up against full-blown Pro Mods—and hold its own. Photo by Team Monza 405 Where Will We See It Race? That’s the big question. Big tire no-prep racing has slowed down a bit with the growing shift toward small tire events. But with the weight savings and power of this setup, Monza’s car could easily be competitive in either class. On big tires, it’s going to be a monster. On small tires, it might just shock a lot of people. No matter where it lines up, one thing is clear—this split bumper Camaro is back, leaner than ever, and ready to make some serious noise in 2025. Fans of Street Outlaws have been waiting for this comeback, and it looks like Monza is about to deliver in a big way.

  • James “Doc” Love’s Terrifying Crash: A Cold Nebraska Night That Shook Street Outlaws

    The world of Street Outlaws thrives on speed, adrenaline, and rivalries that can span years. But every so often, the high-octane energy that fans love takes a sharp turn into reality—and last weekend in Nebraska, it did exactly that. James “Doc” Love, one of the show’s original heavy hitters, suffered one of the worst crashes of his career. What started as a night of jokes, competitive banter, and a much-anticipated rematch ended in flashing lights, urgent voices, and the sobering reminder of just how dangerous street racing can be. Photo by James Love The Build-Up: More Than Just Another Race Before the engines ever fired, the tension was already brewing. Doc had been given a rematch—one the fans were itching to see—after a previous coin-flip dispute that stirred plenty of drama. Even the pre-race coin flip was a battle of wills. Both sides wanted the call, and what should have been a quick formality turned into a playful yet tense standoff. Doc, Big Chief, and the rest of the crew laughed and jawed at each other, but underneath the humor was a razor-sharp competitive edge. For Doc, this wasn’t just about lining up against another fast car. Earlier in the night, he had lost to Lutz, and that loss stung. Beating Chief in the rematch would’ve been the perfect redemption. With his team dialed in—Chief helping with tuning and Jeffrey on deck—Doc felt ready. But the conditions told a different story. Nebraska’s cold nights made the road unpredictable. Grip was at a premium, and everyone knew the surface was sketchy. Still, with America’s List  looming, every driver was pushing harder than ever. Photo by James Love The Crash That Stopped Everyone Cold When the light dropped, Doc’s Monte Carlo shot off the line. But within seconds, something went wrong. The car drifted out of shape and careened off the road—fast. The shift in atmosphere was instant. Moments earlier, the pits were filled with chatter and jokes. Now, it was nothing but shouts and urgency. “Yo, that was a bad one. We need you. He’s out. He’s not okay,” someone yelled. Veteran racers know wrecks are part of the game, but seeing a friend motionless in the car is something nobody ever gets used to. Thankfully, Doc was conscious when medics arrived, though clearly dazed. They asked him simple questions—his name, where he was, what car he drove—and hearing him answer “1970 Monte Carlo” was a small relief to everyone watching. Still, the crash was bad. Paramedics worked carefully to get him out, and he was quickly taken to the hospital for evaluation. Big Chief’s Guilt and the Reality Check For Big Chief, watching Doc’s wreck hit especially hard. He admitted feeling responsible for keeping the crew in Nebraska to race, even with the cold and unpredictable surface. “I can’t help but feel a bit responsible… look what happened. We lost another OG car and somebody’s been in Doc’s shoes,” he said. Chief knows firsthand what it’s like to be in that position. The pain from the wreck, the frustration from losing a race, and the gratitude for simply walking away alive—it’s a cocktail of emotions that every veteran racer understands. Photo by James Love The Aftermath: More Than Bent Metal Physically, Doc was shaken and bruised but alive. Mentally, this crash will take longer to recover from. Getting back behind the wheel after a wreck of that magnitude isn’t just about replacing parts—it’s about rebuilding confidence. In the pits, the mood shifted. Crew members double-checked everything. Racers second-guessed whether to make their next pass. It wasn’t fear exactly—it was respect for how quickly things can go wrong. Fans flooded social media with messages of support, from prayers to debates over what went wrong. Longtime viewers noted how rare it is to see Doc in a situation like this, while newer fans were struck by just how real and dangerous the racing on Street Outlaws  can be. What’s Next for Doc? The Monte Carlo took heavy damage, and rebuilding it will take time, money, and determination. Whether Doc returns in the same car or with a new setup, history tells us one thing—he won’t stay away for long. This incident might also influence how the crew approaches future races. From lane choice to weather calls, they now have a stark reminder that horsepower isn’t the only factor that matters. Track conditions, surface prep, and knowing when to lift could be the difference between a win and a wreck. A Reminder of the Fine Line We Walk Street racing has always been about walking the edge—pushing just far enough to win, but not so far that you lose control. On that cold Nebraska night, Doc came closer to the edge than anyone wanted to see. In true Street Outlaws fashion, this will become another chapter in the show’s long history of resilience. The crash may have paused Doc’s season, but it hasn’t ended his story. And when he does return, you can bet the fans—and his fellow racers—will be there to see it.

  • Justin Swanstrom Teases Possible Big-Tire Return in 2026 – Could IHRA Be on the List?

    Justin Swanstrom has been turning heads in the no-time racing scene lately, and it looks like he might be gearing up for an even bigger year ahead. While he’s been dominating on radials for quite some time, the Florida racer has hinted at making a move that could bring him back into the big-tire spotlight. Photo by Justin Swanstrom Since parting ways with the NPK/Speed Promotions Racing Series, Justin has been laser-focused on no-time and Radial vs. The World competition — and it’s paid off. He’s racked up plenty of wins, big checks, and bragging rights, all while converting former big-tire machines into no-time beasts. But now, there’s a new chapter in the works. Justin is currently building a state-of-the-art Pro Mod that’s expected to debut at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod — one of the most prestigious stages for big-tire racing. This event kicks off in December and brings together the absolute best in the sport, making it the perfect proving ground for his new Corvette. Photo by Justin Swanstrom But that’s not the only thing on his radar. Word is, Justin is also considering a run in the IHRA Pro Mod class next season. The IHRA has been making serious waves lately, with a strong schedule of 12 events announced for next year, bigger payouts, and growing car counts at every race. Just last weekend, they hosted a $125,000-to-win Pro Mod event that drew huge attention from fans and racers alike. For those who remember, Justin has dabbled in big-tire Pro Mod competition before — like his run at last year’s Snowbird Nationals with his current No Time Pro Mod, “Moneybag.” While he didn’t qualify then, this new Corvette build looks like it could be a serious threat in any big-tire lineup. Photo by Justin Swanstrom And let’s not forget “Old Fashioned,” his screw-blown Mustang that has always been a fan favorite. Seeing that car on big tires again — or even a new big-tire version — would be a treat for both fans and competitors. Whether it’s the WSOPM stage, IHRA’s growing Pro Mod series, or another surprise appearance, one thing’s for sure: if Justin Swanstrom brings his talent and machinery back to the big-tire world in 2026, it’s going to get exciting fast. At Street Outlaws Talks , we’ll be watching closely to see where this story goes — and if Swanstrom decides to make the jump, we’ll be there to cover every burnout, every pass, and hopefully, a few trips to the winner’s circle.

  • Cole Pesz’s Mustang Banged Up at IRA Pro Mod — But It’ll Be Back

    This past weekend’s IHRA Pro Mod race came with a tough break for fan-favorite racer Cole Pesz. In the opening round, Cole’s beautiful screw-blown Mustang got caught up in a nasty incident that left the car with significant damage — but fortunately, Cole himself walked away with only minor injuries. Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography The trouble started mid-run when the car drifted toward the centerline. Cole had to pedal it, but things got away from him, and the Mustang headed straight for the opposite wall. The impact was hard enough to destroy the rear tires, crumple the door and quarter panel, and almost certainly tweak something in the chassis. It was a serious hit, but the good news is this car is absolutely repairable — and knowing Cole and his crew, it won’t be long before it’s back on track. Fans know this Mustang well. It’s one of the best-looking cars on the Speed Promotions circuit, with its unmistakable Eleanor-inspired style and a screw blower that looks right at home under the hood. Performance-wise, the car has shown incredible potential — back when it first came out, it went a 3.70 on just its second pass. It’s even run in NPK competition, holding its own against some of the best in the game. Photo by Cole Pesz Racing   Lately, though, consistency has been an issue. In the past two Pro Mod races, Cole’s team has struggled to get the car down a well-prepped track under full power. It’s not for lack of speed — last year the car was making solid passes in the 3.60s — but something in the setup, possibly chassis-related, just hasn’t been clicking. They were working through those issues last weekend when the crash happened. Photo by Cole Pesz Racing   The setback is frustrating, no doubt. But this is racing — and in racing, every setback is just a setup for a comeback. Cole’s crew will get the Mustang fixed, figure out the gremlins, and bring it back stronger and more consistent than ever. And when it does return, you can bet it’ll be turning heads just as much for its looks as for its performance. At Street Outlaws Talks, we’ll be keeping a close eye on the rebuild and bringing you the latest updates. Here’s hoping we see Cole’s screw-blown beauty storming down the track again soon — and maybe even returning to that blistering pace it had when it first debuted.

  • IH ProMod Q1 Results: Street Outlaws Drivers Show Strong Early Runs

    The first round of qualifying at the IH ProMod event is in the books, and several familiar Street Outlaws names made a strong first impression. While these results are still unofficial, they give us a good look at who’s got their combinations dialed in for the $125,000-to-win showdown. Photo by Stat Guy Leading the charge was Kallee Mills , who’s been on fire with her new Pro Mod. She stopped the clocks at 3.65 seconds , continuing the momentum she’s shown over the past few races. In fact, Cali has qualified in the top two at the last three Pro Mod events she’s attended — proof that her team has that car figured out and ready to win. Right behind her was Robin Roberts , laying down a clean 3.69  in his brand-new Harts Charger–powered Pro Mod. This combo has been making noise in the pits lately, and for good reason — Roberts has already snagged the No. 1 qualifier spot at the last two events he’s entered with it. The Harts setup is clearly making serious power, maybe even more than the ProCharger and screw blower combinations currently in play. If that continues, we could see the rule makers take a closer look at balancing the field. Photo by Mallory Elizabeth Photography Scott Taylor  also had a solid start with “Cheeto,” putting up a 3.71  on his very first pass of the weekend. Considering it was Q1, that’s a strong sign for what’s to come. Meanwhile, Disco Dean  kept things steady with his NPK-legal Firebird, clocking in at 3.74 . One of the more interesting moments came when Kye Kelley  and Brad Eglian  ran side-by-side. Both drivers had to pedal, with Kai crossing at 3.86  and Brad at 3.96 . Neither has shown their full hand yet, so Q2 should be worth watching closely — especially for Kai, whose car has the potential to run at the front but has been chasing consistency this season. Not everyone got a clean pass in. Larry Larson  didn’t make it down the track in Q1, so we’ll have to wait and see what he brings in the next round. Photo by Kye Kelley Racing It’s also worth noting that Jimmy Taylor  has rolled into this event with a brand-new twin-turbo Pro Mod. He’s already been in the 3.50s  earlier this week, so he’s definitely a driver to keep on your radar as eliminations approach. With multiple Street Outlaws names running strong times right out of the gate — and a mix of blower, turbo, and centrifugal setups — this is shaping up to be a weekend full of drama, strategy, and potentially some surprise rule chatter. The conditions aren’t perfect for every combo, but that’s part of what makes these Pro Mod races so unpredictable. One thing’s certain: if Q1 was any indication, the fight for $125K is going to be intense.

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