10 Most Controversial Motocross Riders Of All Time
7. Mike Alessi
Mike Alessi was one of the most hyped, and winning-est, amateur riders in history. However, Alessi has struggled to bring his same amateur success to pro competition. He has been close, taking numerous wins and podiums on the AMA national series, but has always been overshadowed and suffered various injury set-backs. In recent years though, it has not been his riding which has caught the peoples attention. In the 2014 Supercross in Atlanta he was fined $4000 and put on probation for the remainder of the season after a horrendous move on Broc Tickle, a move tickle was lucky to walk away from. In the previous year the Alessi family were at the centre of the lasergate scandal. On July 20, at the Washougal national, brother, and team member Jeff was caught shining a laser into the eyes of Alessis series rival Ryan Villopoto moments before the start of the race. Both his brother, and father Tony, were banned from attending the remainder of the series events. Another controversial move was Alessis introduction to pro racing. With the usual modesty of the Alessi family, they entered the pro ranks donned in Believe the Hype t-shirts, and came to cause a stir. Alessi rode well, but instantly made enemies by making aggressive and unnecessary moves on riders like Shaun Hamblin.
