Chris Russell: The Muscle Behind the Madness

Chris Russell is a name synonymous with raw power and fearless skateboarding. Born on November 25, 1996, in Hermosa Beach, California, Russell has carved out a reputation as one of the most aggressive transition skaters of his generation. His approach to skating is loud, fast, and unapologetically gnarly—earning him the nickname "The Muscle."

Early Days: How It All Started

Russell’s journey into skateboarding began like many others—rolling around his hometown streets, inspired by the legends before him. But it was the deep end of the bowl that truly called to him. Growing up in California, he had access to some of the best skateparks in the world, and he wasted no time making them his playground. His natural ability to charge transitions with full commitment quickly set him apart.

Signature Style & Tricks

Chris Russell is known for his powerful, high-speed approach to transition skating. He slaps his deck on the coping harder than most, making every trick feel like a statement. Some of his most noticeable moves include:

• Disasters—Russell’s ability to stomp a disaster with authority is unmatched.

• Frontside & Backside Smith Grinds—executed with deep carves and full control.

• Ollie Drops—his fearless approach to dropping into massive transitions is legendary.

• Layback Grinds—a nod to classic pool skating, but with his own aggressive twist.

Sponsors & Pro Model Decks

Russell’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed by the industry. He’s backed by some of the biggest names in skateboarding, including:

• Creature Skateboards

• OJ Wheels

• Bronson Speed Co.

• Independent Trucks

• MOB Grip

• S-One Helmets

• Skeleton Key MFG

• ET Surf and Skate

• Layback Beer

• Smoker's Choice Papers

• Pizzanista

• Happy Hour Shades

His pro model decks with Creature Skateboards embody his raw, aggressive style, often featuring dark, heavy graphics that match his skating persona.

Video Parts & Career Highlights

Chris Russell has dropped some jaw-dropping video parts over the years, showcasing his relentless energy and commitment to skating. Some of his standout sections include:

• Thrasher’s “Breaks Out” Interview & Part—a deep dive into his life, injuries, and mental resilience.

• OJ Wheels Video Part—a full-throttle performance proving why he’s one of the best transition skaters out there.

• Creature Skateboards Edits—always packed with heavy coping slaps and deep-end destruction.

Beyond video parts, Russell has made waves in competitions, consistently placing in major bowl and vert contests. His fearless approach has earned him podium finishes in events like Red Bull Bowl Rippers and Vans Park Series.

What’s He Up to Now?

Chris Russell is far from slowing down. In 2024, he became a father, marking a new chapter in his life. Despite the shift in responsibilities, he’s still charging full speed ahead, filming new parts, competing, and even exploring rock climbing and jiu-jitsu as new passions. His first Thrasher cover in July 2024 was a testament to his continued dominance in the skate world.

Russell remains one of the most exciting skaters to watch—whether he’s destroying a backyard pool, dropping into a massive vert ramp, or navigating the new challenges of fatherhood. One thing’s for sure: The Muscle isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Chris Russell for OJ Wheels Part

MASHER: Chris “The Muscle” Russell

Cold Call: Chris Russell

Chris Russell | The Nine Club - Episode 326