We’ve all seen the annual silhouettes unveiled by AUSX Open organisers, driving speculation and frenzy as fans work to guess which riders are set to participate in the world-class international event at Marvel Stadium for 2025. The Lawrences have since been confirmed, but can we expect a Haiden Deegan showdown come November 22? It’s not being ruled out.

Front and centre, sitting between each Lawrence brother on the revealing digital artwork strikingly resembles the 19-year-old American superstar, who – if confirmed – would touch down in Australia for the very first time in his professional career.

There’s no secret in saying the land Down Under is somewhat ‘enemy territory’ for Deegan, especially at this given moment when it seems the rivalry between he and US-based phenom Jett has finally begun, with the duo expected to clash as soon as next year’s AMA Pro Motocross when Dangerboy is tipped to be transferring into the premier class.

A precursor to this could arrive at this year’s AUSX Open, although a glaring question would be: What machinery does he arrive with? Would he make a switch to the 450 and go head-to-head with the Lawrences to get some runs under his belt on the big bike? Or would he stick to the 250, competing on what he knows best in these latter stages of his career in the category?

Image: Octopi Media.

It’s a tantalising proposition, and if the organisers of the event can pull off the first-time 450 match-up, there is no doubt that all eyes – globally – would be on the Southern Hemisphere showdown in what would have to be its biggest edition yet.

There was the controversy around last year’s event, with the narrative gaining traction that the Lawrences had essentially blocked Deegan’s entry into the race, fuelled by a social media post from Haiden, which read, ‘AUSX Open prep or at least it was.’

Safe to say this took off like wildfire, and ever the kings of controversy, the Deegans have subtly orchestrated a rivalry with the Australian internationals pretty much ever since. Last Saturday’s Southwick National and the aftermath of it only solidifies that there is no love lost between these two powerhouse parties.

From a business perspective, however, this would be a win-win-win for all involved, which is something that all would understand beyond any bad blood. It’s a win for promoters, who’ll see a massive uptick in ticket sales and sponsorship. It’s also a win for both the Lawrences and Deegans, who, however their compensation is set up, could benefit greatly financially. Lastly, it’s great for the fans, as this is the race we all want to see. Yes, already.

Image: Supplied.

With both Jett and Haiden having claimed the majority of overalls in their respective divisions in Pro Motocross this year (all five to Lawrence in 450MX, plus four for Haiden in his 250MX defence), and with their dominance over the field in Massachusetts, commentary has since switched to a desire to see these two face-off.

Post-race taunts from the younger Lawrence, which are thought to be directed at Deegan’s recent social media antics, appear to get under the skin of the American talent. He’s since been active in comments sections across multiple platforms, firing back at the 21-year-old and joining the conversation.

All of this generates intrigue as to when the worlds will finally collide, which, if it can be achieved, could occur for the very first time inside Marvel Stadium on November 22, with the motorcycle world undoubtedly tuning in.

As mentioned, Deegan will be stepping into enemy territory – and although he is the most followed racer digitally and has fans globally – it’d be a folly to expect that the crowd would be in favour of the number 38. That’s something that both he and the family will not only be aware of, but accustomed to, as father Brian Deegan was always the adversary to wunderkind Travis Pastrana during their competitive FMX careers. They’re used to playing the villain and don’t seem to mind it at all.

Image: Octopi Media.

For the Lawrence camp, it’ll be a story about ending any momentum before it begins, with both Jett and Hunter intent on sending a message that they hold the top spot in the sport – especially on home turf – and that this could be the status quo for the next decade.

This does hinge on what bike Deegan – if he is indeed part of the roster – decides to compete on. If it’s a 250, then it’ll be neat to have him part of the show, and no doubt the agitation would creep in, in some form or another. If, instead, he does make a big bike debut of sorts, then strap in and hold on, because this is what the sport has been waiting for, for a very long time. And a result may ultimately fast-track his 450SX career altogether.