What happened between Big Chief and Shawn on street outlaws?

Justin “Big Chief” Shearer and Shawn “Murder Nova” Ellington were once the dynamic duo of Discovery Channel’s Street Outlaws, captivating fans with their camaraderie and shared passion for street racing. Their partnership, rooted in a mutual love for high-speed competition, became a cornerstone of the show’s appeal. However, over time, their paths began to diverge, leading to a professional split that left many fans wondering what happened between these two racing icons.

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A Formidable Partnership

Big Chief and Murder Nova’s collaboration began in the early 2000s, long before Street Outlaws premiered in 2013. Together, they built and tuned some of the fastest street racing cars, including the OG Murder Nova and The Crow. Their synergy was evident both on and off the track, with Big Chief’s drag racing expertise complementing Shawn’s mechanical skills. Their joint venture, Midwest Street Cars Automotive, became a hub for their racing activities and a symbol of their partnership.​

Signs of Separation

In recent years, fans noticed subtle changes that hinted at a shift in their relationship. The duo stopped posting pictures together on social media and began attending races separately—Big Chief at No Prep Kings events and Shawn at Pro Mod races. Additionally, Shawn’s social media posts no longer featured the Midwest Street Cars Automotive watermark, instead showcasing a new venture: 187 Customs, a shop he opened with his friend Phantom.​

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Diverging Passions

The split wasn’t due to personal animosity but rather differing professional interests. Big Chief has always been deeply immersed in the world of drag racing, with a focus on performance and competition. Shawn, on the other hand, developed a passion for restoring old cars, finding fulfillment in the craftsmanship and creativity involved. These differing passions led them to pursue separate paths that aligned more closely with their individual goals.

Big Chief’s Departure from Street Outlaws

Big Chief’s absence from Street Outlaws became more pronounced over time. In a YouTube video from April 2022, he explained that he chose to step away from the show to focus on his family and his business, Midwest Street Cars. He expressed contentment with his decision, stating, “I’m loving every single minute of it!” Big Chief also mentioned his desire to maintain the integrity of street racing, resisting changes in racing rules that he felt compromised the sport’s authenticity.

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Continued Friendship

Despite their professional separation, Big Chief and Murder Nova have emphasized that their friendship remains intact. They acknowledge that while their careers have taken different directions, their bond, forged over years of collaboration and shared experiences, endures. Fans can take comfort in knowing that the respect and camaraderie between these two racing legends continue off-screen.​

The story of Big Chief and Murder Nova is one of evolution and personal growth. Their decision to pursue separate professional paths reflects a mutual understanding and respect for each other’s passions. While their on-screen partnership may have ended, their individual journeys continue to inspire fans, reminding us that change, when embraced with integrity, can lead to new and fulfilling opportunities.