Bubba’s Boneless Ribs was one of the most talked-about success stories from Shark Tank. Founded by former NFL star Al “Bubba” Baker, the company introduced a revolutionary way to enjoy ribs, without the mess of bones. After securing a deal with Daymond John, the business seemed to be on an upward trajectory. However, recent events have raised questions about the company’s fate, its worth today, and the legal battle that ensued between Baker and John.
Who is Al “Bubba” Baker?
Al “Bubba” Baker played 13 seasons in the NFL, primarily as a defensive lineman for the Detroit Lions. Post-retirement, his passion for barbecue led him to develop a patented method to remove bones from ribs while keeping the meat intact. His daughter, Brittani Baker, helped him bring this vision to life, leading to the creation of Bubba’s Q Boneless Ribs.
Bubba’s Boneless Ribs Shark Tank Pitch
Bubba Baker and his daughter appeared on Shark Tank in 2013, seeking $300,000 for a 15% equity stake in their company. The pitch impressed the Sharks, particularly Daymond John, who saw significant potential in the product.
Product Pitch on Shark Tank (Quick Info Card)
| Product | A de-boned baby back rib steak brand |
| Episode | Season 05 Episode 11 |
| Company name | Bubba’s Boneless Ribs |
| Founder | Al “Bubba” Baker |
| Asked for | $300,000 for 15% equity |
| Final deal | $300,000 for 30% equity |
| Shark | Daymond John |
| Location | Northeast Ohio |
John ultimately offered $300,000 for 30% equity, citing his expertise in branding and distribution. Baker accepted the deal, and it seemed like a perfect partnership. “This is a game-changer,” John remarked during the episode.
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What Happened to Bubba’s Boneless Ribs After Shark Tank?
Following Shark Tank, Bubba’s Boneless Ribs saw a meteoric rise. Sales skyrocketed from $154,000 before the show to over $16 million. The company landed deals with major fast-food chains and retailers, including Walmart and QVC.
However, behind the scenes, tensions began to surface between Baker and John. Baker later claimed that John’s team took over operations and sidelined him from major business decisions.
Key accomplishments
| Year | Accomplishment |
| 2010 | Cleveland Magazine’s, Silver Spoon Award, winner of “Best Ribs” and “Best Barbecue Restaurant” in 2010. |
| 2013 | The company was featured in Shark Tank USA and secured a deal. |
The Legal Dispute and Business Decline
In 2023, the controversy between Baker and John escalated into a legal battle. Baker accused John of unfair business practices, while John responded by filing a restraining order against Baker, alleging defamation.
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The dispute led to a decline in Bubba’s Boneless Ribs operations. Reports suggest that the business is no longer as active as it once was, with many of its retail partnerships falling through. The company’s website and social media presence have also diminished, fueling speculation about its closure.
How Much Was Bubba’s Boneless Ribs Worth?
At its peak, Bubba’s Boneless Ribs was valued in the multi-million dollar range, thanks to its massive retail success. However, with the ongoing legal issues and dwindling sales, its current net worth is uncertain. Estimates suggest that its value has significantly dropped, and its future remains uncertain.
Daymond John’s Earnings from the Deal
Daymond John’s investment initially appeared to be highly profitable. Given the company’s success, John likely made substantial returns, especially during the peak years when sales were soaring. However, due to legal disputes and business setbacks, his total earnings from the venture remain unclear.
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Reviews and Public Perception of Bubba’s Boneless Ribs
Customer reviews for Bubba’s Boneless Ribs have been mixed. While many praised the innovation and convenience, others criticized pricing and inconsistent product quality. Some customers reported issues with taste and packaging, which may have contributed to declining sales.
What Went Wrong for Bubba’s Boneless Ribs?
The downfall of Bubba’s Boneless Ribs appears to stem from a combination of legal disputes, business disagreements, and operational challenges. While the company had a groundbreaking product and strong early sales, the fallout between Baker and John overshadowed its success.
For entrepreneurs, Bubba’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of business partnerships, even those that start with the best intentions.
