If you haven’t experienced the excitement and thrills of giant trucks competing, now is your chance! Monster Jam is coming to Gas South Arena September 12-13, 2026. Grab your family,  friends and ear plugs to come ready for a day filled with entertainment and amazing monster truck feats!

In honor of the upcoming show, we talked with Armando Castro from Whittier, CA, driver of El Toro Loco to find out what it’s like to be a part of Monster Jam! 

At what age did you decide you wanted to drive for Monster Jam?

I knew at the age of about six years old. Crazy to say but that’s when I got to see Monster Jam for the very first time. I’ve wanted to pursue being a driver one day ever since. I debuted in 2017 and I’ve been competing for nine years.

Why did you want to become a monster truck driver?

I fell in love with the truck, the tricks, the big air and most importantly, the connection the drivers had with the fans. From being able to meet them at Pit Party to getting to follow some of these drivers year after year to their driving style, I saw them as role models. I just loved that, and I wanted to be able to do it myself and give back to my fans one day. You can say I am living my dream. 

What training path did you take?

I went through Monster Jam University, where I was taught by the best of the best. These machines aren’t easy to drive or maneuver. They tend to have a mind of their own sometimes, but that’s what makes it exciting — the unexpected moments, the jaw-dropping acts we get to do. I went through weeks and weeks of training and learned everything about driving.

What has been your scariest moment as a driver?

I would say there’s been more nervous moments than scary moments. The stunt I just did for Monster Jam World Finals in Salt Lake City is one of them. I got the opportunity to jump over 5 El Toro Loco Monster Jam trucks. It was only scary because of the elevation, and not having much run up room to pick up speed played a factor. I wasn’t sure if I would clear the 5 trucks, and we just did by a hair. 

Don’t miss out on the fun! Get your tickets today at MonsterJam.com and cheer on El Toro Loco as he battles it out on the dirt track.