UWS news of the week – December 19, 2025

CHRIS JOSLIN
  • Like every week, Urban Worlds Series brings you the latest news of the urban sports scene.

Chris Joslin, 2025 SOTY.

Chris Joslin earned Thrasher Magazine’s 2025 Skater of the Year title, an award that highlights his massive influence on skateboarding over the past year. His standout season was marked by bold, high-risk skating, such as stomping a groundbreaking 360 flip down the iconic El Toro gap and raising the bar with a first-ever backside big flip at Wallenberg, all captured in his hard-hitting video part “G-Ma.” Through relentless consistency, originality, and perseverance—especially while overcoming serious challenges—Joslin left a lasting impression on the skate world, securing this major honor and confirming his place among the most impactful street skaters of 2025.

The largest skatepark in Latin America, in Cuiabá, Brazil.

The Skatepark at Parque Novo Mato Grosso in Cuiabá, Brazil has been completed and officially opened as the largest skatepark in Latin America, marking a milestone for skateboarding in the region. The expansive complex covers more than 8,000 m² and features multiple areas built to Olympic-standard specifications, including separate sections for Park and Street, a Pump Track, spaces for beginners, and additional recreational facilities that support both training and large competitions. Its inauguration in December 2025 was highlighted by major national events such as the Brazilian Skate Championships and the MT Skate Pro, drawing hundreds of athletes and positioning Cuiabá as a new hub for skateboarding culture and elite sport in the continent.

Guifré Obradors “Welcome to NATIVE” part.

Guifré Obradors’, bronze medalist at Extreme Barcelona 2025, “Welcome to NATIVE” video part marks a major milestone in his skateboarding career as he officially joins the NATIVE team, spotlighting his raw street style and technical skill on film. The edit showcases Obradors ripping through a variety of urban spots with creativity and commitment, highlighting his smooth flow, inventive lines, and fearless approach to challenging terrain. Shot with high-energy and authenticity, “Welcome to NATIVE” not only celebrates his addition to the team but also underlines why he’s one of the most exciting Spanish street skaters rising through the ranks today.

NBD! Mikey Taylor becomes first pro skateboarder to serve as mayor.

Mikey Taylor, once a professional skateboarder and now a successful entrepreneur, has made history as the first pro skater to take on the role of mayor, assuming office in his hometown of Thousand Oaks, California after years of experience in both business and public service. After an accomplished skateboarding career, Taylor launched ventures such as the real estate company Commune Capital and co-founded Saint Archer Brewing Co., before turning his focus to local politics. He first earned a seat on the city council and later stepped into the mayoral position, bringing the same determination, creativity, and community-minded approach that characterized his life on the board. His leadership style combines innovative problem-solving with hands-on civic engagement, reflecting the resilience and vision he honed throughout his skateboarding and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Must watch: FRACTURE – ‘ON AND ON’.

“Fracture are back with another banging mixed video. ‘On and On’ was filmed in Cologne, Cardiff & Brussels. Needless to say, this is another instant classic in their already stacked back catalogue. Essential viewing, people! The video features clips of Felix Prangenberg, Linda Grabner, Jakob Wasserrab, Kilian Reichmeyer, Mattes Torn, Anton Arens, Sebastian Dreher, Marc Lorra, David Schaller, Florian Först, Adrian Warnken & Mads Zameit. “We just finished this one and already started filming for the next one. I guess that’s kinda where that title came from pretty last minute.” – Fracture Video by Felix Prangenberg

Additional filming by Grant Castelluzzo, Archie Kenward, Rich Forne, David Schaller, Anton Arens, and Marc Lorra