MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The sweet smell of smoked meat filled the air at Tom Lee Park as Rescue Smokers from Sycamore, Georgia, were named the 2025 Grand Champion of SmokeSlam, the premier barbecue competition that wrapped up its festivities Saturday, May 17.
Led by pitmaster Robby Royal, the seasoned team took top honors after clinching first place in Pulled Pork and a strong fourth place in Ribs, solidifying their dominance among the 76 teams vying for a share of the $150,000 prize pool.
“Rescue-style baby, yeah!” Royal shouted, hoisting his trophy triumphantly as he exited the winners’ stage. “This is the same crew we had last year, we brought it back,” he said. “I’ve been doing this style of BBQ since 2002 … to have the opportunity to get this grand championship in 2025 after messing up last year, it’s the greatest feeling in the world.”
SmokeSlam kicked off May 15, drawing barbecue enthusiasts, families and food lovers from across the country. While the spotlight competitions in Whole Hog, Ribs and Pulled Pork were announced during the May 17 ceremony, Friday, May 16, featured additional creative contests ranging from Duck and Bacon to Cocktails and Dessert.
Also honored was the World Junior BBQ League Grand Champion, Totally Bodacious BBQ, who walked away with a $5,000 prize after standout performances across multiple categories including Pork, Brisket, Ribs and Chicken.
Attendee Chateaur Shipp, enjoying the festivities with family, said, “I really enjoyed the BBQ fest, it’s a great way to fellowship with people I hadn’t met before, and the food was good. It was my first time attending one, and I didn’t know what to expect, but overall I’m pleased with my experience today.”
Festival vibes were kept high thanks to DJ Superman of Hot 107.1, who provided the soundtrack for a weekend of smoky, saucy celebration.
2025 SmokeSlam Key Winners
Grand Champion: Rescue Smokers
Pulled Pork
- Rescue Smokers
- Poker Porkers
- Swine Life BBQ
Ribs
- Fireside Smokers
- Rebel Roaster Review
- Ole Booger Bear’s BBQ
- Rescue Smokers
Whole Hog
- Fireman John’s BBQ
- Grind City Smokers
- Swineantology
Seafood: I Only Smoke When I Drink Poultry: Sicilian Smoker’s Wings: BBQ Team Dry Rub: Sweet Cheeks BBQ Duck: Smokin’ On The River Bacon: Hotty Totty BBQ Dream Team Beef: Smoked N Spiced Cocktail: Robinson Smokehouse Dessert: Hotty Totty BBQ Dream Team Best Booth: Sweet Cheeks BBQ Best T-Shirt: Smokestack Lightning
World Junior BBQ League
Grand Champion: Totally Bodacious BBQ Brisket: LG BBQ Ribs: Totally Bodacious BBQ Chicken: Totally Bodacious BBQ Pork: Totally Bodacious BBQ
As the smoke clears and grills cool down, Rescue Smokers head back to Georgia with hardware in hand and fire in their bellies — ready for the next challenge on the barbecue circuit.
