Haiden Deegan announced himself as a force in the 450SMX class Saturday, sweeping both motos in brutal, muddy conditions at Historic Crew Stadium to capture his first premier-class victory in the Monster Energy SMX World Championship Playoffs.
Deegan was in complete control throughout the opening round, winning both motos by more than 17 seconds over Ken Roczen. Roczen finished second overall with a 2-2 score, while Jorge Prado secured third with a 3-4 finish. Prado leaves Columbus with the 450SMX points lead, holding a two-point advantage over Deegan. Cooper Webb sits third, four points behind Prado. Hunter Lawrence, the top seed entering the playoffs, endured a difficult afternoon in the mud and finished 15th overall after multiple crashes.
In the 250SMX class, Levi Kitchen earned the overall victory with a 2-2 finish. Daxton Bennick finished second after going 1-3, while Ryder DiFrancesco rounded out the podium with a 3-4 score.
The SMX Playoffs continue September 19 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Los Angeles.