Since its opening in 1994, Ramrod has been an integral, if seemingly seedy part of South Florida. It has always been the kind of bar where no one cares who you are or what you are into, as long as you don’t care about those things in others. It is also the long-running home of the South Florida leather community. Since 1995, the bar has hosted the Mr. Ramrod contest, where participants present themselves in front of a panel of judges in hopes that they will be given the bar’s title. Most winners have gone on to compete in International Mr. Leather, with two Mr Ramrods winning the international title and seven others ranking in the top 10. Sunday, October 12th saw this year’s competition. Four contestants presented themselves to the panel of judges: Mack Mackenzie, Pup Lucky, Asher, and Dr Jessie. The event was hosted by friend of the network Elimination, who said about the contest:
“We had a wonderful class of 4 humans willing to share of themselves in front of the South Florida Community. Each brought something special to the stage and we are forever thankful of their vulnerability, authenticity, and presence.”
The contestants included people from various parts of the community, from a Doctor to a non-binary leather pup and a local singer. Ramrod’s General Manager, Chad Bush said:
“The Family of Ramrod is very Happy to announce that Dr. Jesse Nicholson is our new 2026 Mr. Ramrod. We had an amazing array of contestants covering many aspects of our diverse LGBTQIAS community. Although they were all worthy of taking the title, we are so happy to have Dr. Jesse representing Ramrod this year.”
As queer spaces across the country continue to close, it is important to maintain spaces where the most marginalized members of our community, including transgender individuals, people of color, and even the leather community, are able to come together. Dr. Jesse, the new Mr. Ramrod, told Queer News Tonight:
“I am so honored and humbled to be chosen as Mr. Ramrod 2026. I appreciate the camaraderie and support all of the contestants had for each other throughout the entire contest….Leather is about celebrating who we are — unapologetically and with pride — and I hope to welcome more people into that experience of connection and belonging.”
