Austin Kress aka Stoney McBlaze Returns to the American Autoflower Cup as Judge

In every cannabis community, there are a few personalities who command a room the moment they walk in. Austin Kress - known to millions as Stoney McBlaze - is one of those rare figures who can make a crowd laugh, think, and pay attention all at once. Behind the jokes was real cultivation insight, an informed voice on terpenes and genetics, and a sincere passion for the future of autoflowers.

This year, Austin returns to the 2026 American Autoflower Cup not just as entertainment, but as an official judge - a natural evolution of his role and a continuation of a partnership that reflects the spirit of the Cup: community-driven, creator-powered, and rooted in genuine love for the plant.

Why Austin Kress is a perfect fit for the judging panel

Austin may be known for comedy, but his cannabis knowledge is anything but a punchline. His understanding of terpene profiles, smoke quality, structure, and phenotype behavior made an impression during last year’s event - especially in the judges’ house, where his sharp palate and grounded insights became part of the internal conversations shaping the Cup.

This combination of humor and expertise creates a bridge between serious growers and the creative community that drives so much of modern cannabis culture. Austin speaks both languages fluently. He knows what makes a strain special, but he also understands how to translate that to an audience that ranges from home growers to industry veterans.

As the Cup continues to grow in visibility, bringing creators like Austin deeper into the process helps expand its reach and maintain its authenticity. His presence ensures that the event stays accessible, fun, and rooted in the story of the growers who make autoflowers what they are today.

A judge with a creator’s lens

Last year, Austin took the stage alongside another renowned stand-up comedian with a cannabis twist, Mike Glazer, creating one of the most memorable comedic moments of the 2025 edition.

Both long-time friends, Austin and Mike shared jokes, energy, and effortless chemistry with our judge Maxwell Pharms, whose smile in every photo captured the exact vibe of the night. Anyone who saw the three of them together could feel the connection instantly - pure joy, real culture, and authentic cannabis community spirit. These smiles said everything.

A new chapter with familiar faces

Having comedia Stoney McBlaze return as both a judge and an expanded creative partner reflects the direction the American Autoflower Cup is headed: committed, culturally relevant, and shaped by real community voices. 

His evolution from comedian to judge is not just a role change - it’s a symbol of the growing connection between creators and cultivators. We are proud to welcome Austin back, this time with a seat at the judging table and a place in the story of autoflower excellence. 

Join us in January! Limited tickets on Eventbrite!