Think You’ve Got What It Takes? Join Us for WBC 2028!
We’re getting closer to announcing our next host country and official dates for the 2028 World Butchers’ Challenge (WBC) and once that’s locked in, entries will be opening not long after.
If you’ve been following us for years, cheering from the sidelines, or daydreaming about taking your knives to the world stage, this is your chance. WBC isn’t just a competition, it’s a movement. It’s where six of the best butchers in a nation come together, transform whole carcasses into world-class displays in three and a half hours, and prove that craft, creativity, and stamina are alive and kicking in butchery.
How the Team Competition Works
Each national team is made up of six butchers, typically covering roles like:
Breaking & Boning/Trimming (the power players),
Value-Adding & Display (the artists), and
Finishing & Garnishing (the detail kings and queens).
Together, they turn a side of beef, a side of pork, a whole lamb, and five chickens into a mind-blowing display of value-added cuts.
Important note: Team entries are ideally submitted through a nationally recognised institution or body - such as a butchers’ guild, trade association, or training provider - to make sure each country is putting forward its very best talent with proper backing.
What About the Young Guns? WCYB & BA Explained
Alongside the big event runs the World Champion Young Butcher and World Champion Butcher Apprentice competitions. These are solo categories, where contestants get two hours and thirty minutes to create a themed display from a beef rump, side of lamb, loin of pork, and two chickens.It’s a fast, furious, and i ncredibly inspiring part of the WBC weekend - a true showcase of the next generation. And yes, the entry process is just as straightforward: individual applications, confirmation by the set deadline, and proof of training if you’re an apprentice.
Captains’ Group – Be Part of the Inner Circle
We also have an ongoing Captains’ Group, a working group made up of national team captains from past and current competitions. This group gets early updates, direct access to the organisers, and is a key voice in shaping the competition. If you’re serious about entering and want to keep up to date with the latest news before entries even open, get in touch with us now to find out how you can be included in this group. It’s the best way to stay connected and ensure your country is ready to go when the gates open.
Why Join?
Because it’s not just a contest. It’s late nights in the shop perfecting displays, it’s the roar of the crowd when you place your last garnish, and it’s walking away with not just medals but lifelong friends, mentors, and bragging rights that you’re part of the best of the best. So, sharpen your knives, rally your crew, and keep your eyes peeled - WBC 2028 is coming, and entries will be opening before you know it.
Ready to Throw Your Hat in?
We’ll be releasing a full entry pack with everything you need early next year. In the meantime, check out the teams who battled it out in Paris 2025, get inspired, and start picturing yourself in that line-up.
Register your team’s interest now by emailing ashley@wbccouncil.com - whether you’re a new potential competitor or captain let us know and we’ll add you to our updates list and make sure you’re first to hear when entries open.