Riders must grip the bull rope with only one hand. Touching the bull or themselves with their free hand results in immediate disqualification.

Both the rider and the bull are judged. A perfect ride isn't just about staying on; it’s about how much "rank" (difficulty) the bull shows and how well the rider controls the chaos.

Organizations like Professional Bull Riders (PBR) have turned the sport into a global spectacle, complete with a Team Series that features regional teams competing against one another.