He is the winningest man in BBQ. Myron Mixon's net worth in 2026 is about $2.5 million. He earned this through competitive BBQ, TV shows, cookbooks, restaurants, and branded products. Known as the "Winningest Man in Barbecue," this pitmaster has spent his entire life around smoke and fire. He earned this title by winning championships and maintaining a strong record in BBQ competitions.
Who is Myron Mixon?
Myron Mixon is a world-famous American pitmaster, TV personality, author, and restaurant owner. Born on May 31, 1962, in Vienna, Georgia, he learned BBQ from his father and took it to the world stage. He has won more than 200 grand championships, 5 world titles, and built a legendary career spanning decades.
Myron Mixon: Biography at a Glance
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Myron Mixon |
| Date of Birth | May 31, 1962 |
| Age (2026) | 63 Years |
| Birthplace | Vienna, Georgia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Pitmaster, TV Personality, Author, Restaurateur |
| Famous For | "Winningest Man in Barbecue" |
| BBQ Team | Jack's Old South Competition Bar-B-Que Team |
| Wife | Faye Mixon |
| Net Worth (2026) | ~$2.5 Million |
| Halls of Fame | BBQ Hall of Fame, Georgia BBQ Hall of Fame |
Early Life and Family Background
Childhood and the Start of BBQ
Myron Mixon was born in Vienna, Georgia, a small Southern town where BBQ was not just food but a way of life. He grew up in an environment where slow-cooked meats and wood smoke were part of everyday living, shaping his passion for the craft from an early age.
Father Jack Mixon's Influence
Myron's greatest teacher was his father, Jack Mixon, who ran a local BBQ business. Jack taught him whole-hog cooking, fire management, and wood-smoking methods. These skills later became the foundation of Myron's competitive career. He even named his BBQ team "Jack's Old South" as a tribute to his father.
One interesting fact — Myron originally entered his first competition to promote his parents' handmade BBQ sauce. He went there to market a product and came back as a champion. He never stopped after that.
First Competition in 1996
In 1996, Myron entered his first BBQ competition in Augusta, Georgia. The result: 1st place in whole hog, 1st place in pork ribs, and 3rd place in pork shoulder. It was a debut that clearly signaled something big was coming.
BBQ Competition Career
200+ Grand Championships and 1,800+ Trophies
Throughout his career, Myron Mixon has won over 200 grand championships, along with more than 1,800 BBQ trophies, 30 state championships, 8 Team of the Year awards, and 11 national championships. These numbers are extraordinary by any standard in any sport.
5 World BBQ Championships
Myron has claimed the World BBQ Champion title five times across different categories — pork, brisket, and whole hog — proving his mastery in every area of competitive BBQ.
Memphis in May — His Biggest Stage
Memphis in May is one of the most prestigious BBQ competitions in the world. Myron has won the Grand Champion title there five times — in 2001, 2004, 2007, 2016, and 2021. This achievement alone is enough to secure his place as a BBQ legend.
BBQ Hall of Fame
Myron has been inducted into both the BBQ Hall of Fame and the Georgia BBQ Hall of Fame. These honors recognize not just his wins, but his overall contribution to the BBQ world.
Signature BBQ Style
The Hot and Fast Method
Myron Mixon is widely recognized for his "Hot and Fast" BBQ technique. Traditional BBQ relies on a "low and slow" approach — cooking at low temperatures for many hours. Myron flipped that idea by using higher temperatures to cook meat faster while still keeping it juicy and flavorful.
This technique became revolutionary in competitive BBQ, especially under strict time limits. While other pitmasters struggled, Myron consistently delivered perfectly cooked pork shoulders and ribs on time.
Jack's Old South Team
Myron's competition team, "Jack's Old South," has competed in tournaments around the world and consistently ranked at the top. The team name remains a permanent tribute to his late father, Jack Mixon — a reminder of where it all began.
Television Career
BBQ Pitmasters
BBQ Pitmasters gave Myron his national spotlight. In the first season on TLC, he competed as a contestant. By the second season, he became a judge — evaluating other pitmasters and sharing his expertise with millions of viewers. The show dramatically expanded his audience and confirmed his authority in the BBQ world.
Smoked (Destination America)
Myron also served as a judge on Smoked, where he evaluated contestants' barbecue techniques. His honest feedback and deep knowledge helped viewers understand the standards of professional-level BBQ.
BBQ Pit Wars and BBQ Rules
Myron appeared on BBQ Pit Wars, showcasing high-level regional competition. He also served as the executive producer and host of BBQ Rules — a show built entirely around his own techniques and philosophy.
Books and Cookbooks
Smokin' with Myron Mixon — New York Times Bestseller
Myron's first book, Smokin' with Myron Mixon: Recipes Made Simple, was published in 2011 by Random House and became a New York Times Bestseller. It features competition-winning recipes, smoking tips, and championship techniques that any BBQ lover can follow at home.
Everyday Barbecue (2013)
Published in 2013, Everyday Barbecue was written for home cooks. It focuses on simple methods, practical tips, and approachable recipes that make professional-style BBQ achievable for everyone.
Myron Mixon's BBQ Rules (2016)
This book lays out Myron's complete philosophy — from meat selection to seasoning and smoking. It serves as a full guide for both competitive pitmasters and backyard grillers, drawing on decades of experience.
BBQ&A with Myron Mixon (2019) and Keto BBQ (2021)
BBQ&A with Myron Mixon answers the most common questions fans and aspiring pitmasters have asked over the years. Keto BBQ was written for health-conscious readers who want to enjoy great BBQ without compromising their diet. Both books expanded his reach and added to his income streams.
Business Ventures
Myron Mixon Smokers
Myron launched his own line of smokers — Myron Mixon Smokers — designed for serious BBQ enthusiasts, competition pitmasters, and backyard cooks who want professional results. The smokers are built for durability, even heat distribution, and versatility. His reputation helped the brand grow into a trusted name in BBQ equipment.
BBQ Cooking School — Unadilla, Georgia
Myron runs a BBQ cooking school in Unadilla, Georgia, where he teaches in-person classes. Since 1995, over 25,000 students have attended the school. The three-day program covers whole hog, pork shoulder, brisket, turkey, and homemade sausage — taught exactly the way his father once taught him.
Sauces, Rubs, and Branded Products
Myron offers a full product line of BBQ sauces and rubs available in retail stores across the USA. These products provide a consistent source of income and are used by millions of BBQ fans nationwide.
Myron Mixon Restaurants
Pitmaster BBQ — Multiple Locations
Myron opened multiple Pitmaster BBQ locations in Old Town Alexandria (VA), Miami (FL), and Hoboken (NJ). These casual dining spots serve competition-level BBQ including pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and wings. He also opened a 2,500-square-foot fast-casual location in Dunn Loring, Virginia, positioned near a Metro station to maximize foot traffic.
Myron Mixon BBQ Co. — Gatlinburg, Tennessee (2025)
On May 28, 2025, he opened Myron Mixon BBQ Co. in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in partnership with Kennedy Concepts. Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, the restaurant offers championship-level smoked meats, house-made sides, signature sauces, and a full bar.
Signature menu items include Jack's Peach BBQ Baked Beans, Baby Back Mac and Cheese, and Dry Rubbed Wings. The restaurant holds a strong Google rating and has quickly become one of Gatlinburg's popular dining spots.
Myron Mixon Net Worth – Complete Income Breakdown
Complete Income Breakdown
| Income Source | Estimated Contribution (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| BBQ Competition Winnings | $50,000 – $100,000 | Early career prize money from competitions |
| Television Appearances | $800,000 – $1,000,000 | Earnings from BBQ shows as judge and competitor |
| Cookbooks & Royalties | $400,000 – $800,000 | Income from published BBQ cookbooks |
| BBQ Products (Sauces, Rubs, Smokers) | $400,000 – $800,000 | Revenue from branded product sales |
| Restaurants & Business Ventures | $300,000 – $800,000 | Restaurant ownership and licensing income |
| BBQ Cooking School & Events | $200,000 – $500,000 | Paid classes, seminars, and demonstrations |
| Speaking Engagements & Appearances | $100,000 – $300,000 | Guest events and promotional work |
Estimated Yearly Net Worth & Earnings (1996–2026)
| Year | Approx. Earnings (USD) | Estimated Net Worth at Year End (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | $0 | $0 |
| 1997–2000 | $5,000 – $10,000 /yr | ~$20,000 |
| 2001 | ~$20,000 | ~$40,000 |
| 2002–2005 | $25,000 – $50,000 /yr | ~$150,000 |
| 2006–2009 | $60,000 – $100,000 /yr | ~$350,000 |
| 2010–2012 | $120,000 – $200,000 /yr | ~$750,000 |
| 2013–2016 | $200,000 – $350,000 /yr | ~$1,400,000 |
| 2017–2019 | $300,000 – $450,000 /yr | ~$1,900,000 |
| 2020–2022 | $350,000 – $500,000 /yr | ~$2,200,000 |
| 2023–2024 | $400,000 – $600,000 /yr | ~$2,400,000 |
| 2025 | $500,000 – $700,000 | ~$2,450,000 |
| 2026 | $600,000 – $800,000 | ~$2,500,000 |
Political Career — Mayor of Unadilla
Myron Mixon also serves as the Mayor of Unadilla, Georgia. This role reflects his deep connection to the community that shaped him. Notably, he has publicly stated that he donates his mayoral salary back to the city or local causes — demonstrating a community-first mindset that goes beyond BBQ.
Personal Life
Myron Mixon is married to Faye Mixon. He keeps his personal life largely out of the public eye — avoiding social media drama and unnecessary spotlight. He has often credited Faye and his children for keeping him grounded through competitions, business challenges, and demanding travel schedules.
Legacy and Impact
Myron Mixon is more than a champion — he represents a movement in competitive BBQ. His "Hot and Fast" technique redefined competition standards. His cookbooks brought professional-level methods into millions of home kitchens. His television appearances helped make BBQ mainstream entertainment, and his cooking school has inspired thousands of aspiring pitmasters.
He is a member of both the BBQ Hall of Fame and the Georgia BBQ Hall of Fame — recognized not only for winning championships, but for elevating the entire BBQ industry.
Quick Facts
- Born: May 31, 1962, Vienna, Georgia
- Championships: 200+ grand championships, 1,800+ trophies, 5 world titles
- Memphis in May Wins: 2001, 2004, 2007, 2016, 2021
- Books: 5 cookbooks including a New York Times Bestseller
- TV Shows: BBQ Pitmasters, Smoked, BBQ Pit Wars, BBQ Rules
- Latest Restaurant: Myron Mixon BBQ Co., Gatlinburg TN (May 2025)
- Mayor of: Unadilla, Georgia
- Hall of Fame: BBQ Hall of Fame & Georgia BBQ Hall of Fame
FAQs
What is Myron Mixon's net worth in 2026?
Approximately $2.5 million — earned through competitions, television shows, restaurants, cookbooks, and branded products.
How many championships has he won?
Over 200 grand championships, 1,800+ total trophies, 30 state championships, 11 national championships, and 5 world titles.
Does Myron Mixon still own restaurants?
Yes. Pitmaster BBQ operates in multiple locations, and his newest restaurant, Myron Mixon BBQ Co., opened in Gatlinburg, Tennessee in May 2025.
Is Myron Mixon married?
Yes, his wife's name is Faye Mixon. He maintains a private family life but has credited her support throughout his career.
Where is Myron Mixon the Mayor?
He serves as the Mayor of Unadilla, Georgia, and publicly donates his mayoral salary to community causes.
Conclusion
From a small town in Vienna, Georgia, to becoming the "Winningest Man in Barbecue," Myron Mixon's journey reflects dedication, skill, and authenticity. With over 200 championships, 5 world titles, a New York Times bestselling cookbook, multiple restaurants, and a successful cooking school, he has built a lasting legacy in the BBQ industry. His 2025 Gatlinburg restaurant and continued community service show that he remains at the top of his game.




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