Why is Kyle Busch called rowdy? Origin behind NASCAR driver's nickname explored

NASCAR Cup Series Grant Park 220
Kyle Busch during the NASCAR Cup Series Grant Park 220 on July 02, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Kyle Busch's nickname gained popularity during his early NASCAR Truck Series racing career. Many NASCAR drivers have developed an image and a brand for themselves over the years, prompting fans to assign them nicknames that reflect their reputations.

Busch, who has a wide fan following, is popularly known as Kyle 'Rowdy' Busch amongst his fans.

The American racing driver has won several awards over his career. He has inspired the careers of numerous young racing drivers due to his passion for racing and his never-say-die mentality. His fans admire him, and they are excited to watch him compete on the racing circuits.

In terms of the creation of the nickname, it is widely assumed that 'Rowdy' was given the nickname during his early Truck Series racing days with Billy Ballew Motorsports.

Busch recently discussed the origins of his nickname. The name 'Rowdy' was indeed given to him by Billy Ballew Motorsports at the beginning of his Truck Series racing career.

“I used to run his first truck, which was No. 15, and when Billy wanted to run a second truck in a few races, he asked me what number I’d want to run. So, I told him to just reverse the 15 and make it 51. All his trucks were already painted black, and we put Rowdy Busch over the (door), and that’s sort of where it came from,” he said during an interview.

The 'Rowdy' nickname initially appeared during his Truck Series days, and he feels it has stayed since then. Another reason his name has stayed with him is his daring driving abilities during racing events.


Kyle Busch finishes in top five of the inaugural Chicago Street Race

Kyle Busch
Kyle Busch

When Kyle Busch was windshield-deep in the Turn 6 tire barrier on the second lap of the race, it looked highly unlikely that he would finish fifth in Chicago, but luck was on his side.

Busch was competing in the race when, on lap 2, his rear tires locked up and he went for a long side into the tire barrier on a wet track. Turn 6 is a left-hander at the end of a fast straightaway.

Busch's car sustained just a little damage. After being extricated from the tire barriers, Busch didn't stop. His Richard Childress Racing team only came down the pit road after the race resumed in order to repair some hood pins.

Due to the collision, Busch was forced to finish last and was buried deep in the field for most of the day. The situation for Busch and his team changed when NASCAR officials decided to shorten the race's distance due to darkness following the second stage. Busch took the chequered flag in fifth place.

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Edited by Akshay Saraswat
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