The ultimate showdown: Ranking the best competitors from ‘The Challenge’ Season 40
The Challenge has been a staple of reality TV for nearly four decades, showcasing some of the most formidable competitors, strategic masterminds, and jaw-dropping gameplay. As we dive into Season 40, aptly named “Battle of the Eras,” MTV has brought together 10 players from each era—seasons 1-10, 10-20, 20-30, and 20-39—for the ultimate competition.
A nostalgic journey through ‘The Challenge’
Reflecting on the iconic season, it feels like the perfect moment to rank the players from best to… least best. After all, even those at the bottom of this list are incredible competitors. This ranking is a personal opinion, considering various factors such as the number of challenges each person has competed in versus won, their strategy, politicking, daily competitions, eliminations, and overall gameplay.
The top-tier competitors
Johnny Bananas
- 23 Challenges
- 7 Wins
Johnny Bananas is a name synonymous with The Challenge. With 23 challenges under his belt and 7 wins, his legacy is undeniable. His strategic prowess and ability to navigate the social dynamics of the game make him a formidable opponent.
C.T. Tamburello
- 19 Challenges
- 5 Wins
C.T. Tamburello, with his 19 challenges and 5 wins, is another legend of the game. Known for his physical strength and strategic mind, C.T. has consistently proven why he is one of the best.
Jordan Wiseley
- 9 Challenges
- 4 Wins
Jordan Wiseley, despite participating in only 9 challenges, has secured 4 wins. His competitive spirit and determination make him a standout player.
Darrell Taylor
- 14 Challenges
- 4 Wins
Darrell Taylor’s 14 challenges and 4 wins speak volumes about his consistency and skill. His ability to perform under pressure is unmatched.
Laurel Stuckey
- 8 Challenges
- 2 Wins
Laurel Stuckey, with 8 challenges and 2 wins, is a force to be reckoned with. Her physical prowess and strategic gameplay have earned her a spot among the top competitors.
The seasoned strategists
Derrick Kosinski
- 13 Challenges
- 3 Wins
Derrick Kosinski’s 13 challenges and 3 wins highlight his resilience and strategic acumen. He is a player who knows how to navigate the complexities of the game.
Rachel Robinson
- 8 Challenges
- 2 Wins
Rachel Robinson, with 8 challenges and 2 wins, has consistently demonstrated her competitive edge and strategic thinking.
Cara Maria Sorbello
- 15 Challenges
- 2 Wins
Cara Maria Sorbello’s 15 challenges and 2 wins showcase her determination and ability to adapt to various game scenarios.
Jodi Weatherton
- 5 Challenges
- 2 Wins
Jodi Weatherton, despite participating in only 5 challenges, has secured 2 wins, proving her mettle in the game.
Mark Long
- 8 Challenges
- 2 Wins
Mark Long’s 8 challenges and 2 wins highlight his longevity and skill in the game.
The rising stars
Jonna Mannion
- 10 Challenges
- 2 Wins
Jonna Mannion’s 10 challenges and 2 wins indicate her growing prowess in the game. She is a player to watch out for.
Emily Schromm
- 3 Challenges
- 1 Win
Emily Schromm, with 3 challenges and 1 win, has shown that she has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Tori Deal
- 9 Challenges
- 1 Win
Tori Deal’s 9 challenges and 1 win highlight her competitive spirit and strategic gameplay.
Kaycee Clark
- 5 Challenges
- 1 Win
Kaycee Clark, with 5 challenges and 1 win, has quickly made a name for herself in the game.
Brad Fiorenza
- 13 Challenges
- 1 Win
Brad Fiorenza’s 13 challenges and 1 win showcase his experience and ability to compete at a high level.
The underdogs
Nehemiah Clark
- 7 Challenges
- 1 Win
Nehemiah Clark’s 7 challenges and 1 win highlight his potential and determination.
Jenny West
- 2 Challenges
- 1 Win
Jenny West, with only 2 challenges and 1 win, has shown that she can compete with the best.
Aviv Melmed
- 1 Challenge
- 1 Win
Aviv Melmed’s single challenge and win demonstrate her ability to rise to the occasion.
Devin Walker
- 7 Challenges
- 1 Win
Devin Walker’s 7 challenges and 1 win highlight his strategic mind and competitive spirit.
The challengers
Horacio Gutiérrez Jr.
- 2 Challenges
Horacio Gutiérrez Jr. has participated in 2 challenges, showing promise and potential.
Ryan Kehoe
- 7 Challenges
Ryan Kehoe’s 7 challenges highlight his experience and determination.
Olivia Kaiser
- 2 Challenges
Olivia Kaiser, with 2 challenges, has shown that she has the potential to compete at a high level.
Nurys Mateo
- 2 Challenges
Nurys Mateo’s 2 challenges indicate her growing presence in the game.
Theo Campbell
- 3 Challenges
Theo Campbell’s 3 challenges highlight his competitive spirit and potential.
Tony Raines
- 7 Challenges
Tony Raines’ 7 challenges showcase his experience and determination.
KellyAnne Judd
- 7 Challenges
KellyAnne Judd’s 7 challenges highlight her competitive edge and strategic mind.
Katie Cooley
- 11 Challenges
- 1 Win
Katie Cooley’s 11 challenges and 1 win showcase her experience and ability to compete at a high level.
Tina Barta
- 8 Challenges
Tina Barta’s 8 challenges highlight her experience and competitive spirit.
Leroy Garrett
- 13 Challenges
Leroy Garrett’s 13 challenges showcase his determination and potential.
Cory Wharton
- 10 Challenges
Cory Wharton’s 10 challenges highlight his competitive edge and strategic mind.
Michele Fitzgerald
- 4 Challenges
Michele Fitzgerald’s 4 challenges indicate her growing presence in the game.
Paulie Calafiore
- 4 Challenges
Paulie Calafiore’s 4 challenges highlight his competitive spirit and potential.
Derek Chavez
- 5 Challenges
Derek Chavez’s 5 challenges showcase his experience and determination.
Aneesa Ferreira
- 17 Challenges
Aneesa Ferreira’s 17 challenges highlight her longevity and competitive spirit.
Kyland Young
- 2 Challenges
Kyland Young’s 2 challenges indicate his growing presence in the game.
Amanda Garcia
- 7 Challenges
Amanda Garcia’s 7 challenges showcase her experience and competitive edge.
Averey Tressler
- 3 Challenges
Averey Tressler’s 3 challenges highlight her potential and determination.
Brandon Nelson
- 6 Challenges
Brandon Nelson’s 6 challenges showcase his competitive spirit and potential.
Josh Martinez
- 6 Challenges
Josh Martinez’s 6 challenges highlight his determination and strategic mind.
Nia Moore
- 4 Challenges
Nia Moore’s 4 challenges indicate her growing presence in the game.
Final thoughts
As we look forward to the rest of Season 40, it’s clear that The Challenge continues to bring together some of the most talented and competitive individuals in reality TV. Each player, regardless of their ranking, has contributed to the rich history and legacy of the show. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, there’s no denying the excitement and drama that The Challenge consistently delivers.