Tennessee Mascot Diagnosed with Cancer | College of Veterinary Medicine

Smokey X, a Bluetick Coonhound, looks at the camea during the game between the Georgia State Panthers and the Tennessee Volunteers in Neyland Stadium on August 31, 2019. Photo by Steven Bridges/University of Tennessee

Smokey X during the game between the Georgia State Panthers and the Tennessee Volunteers in Neyland Stadium on August 31, 2019. Photo by Steven Bridges/University of Tennessee

Beloved Retired Mascot Smokey X Faces Health Challenges with Courage and Spirit

Smokey X, a Bluetick Coonhound, rests on a couch with an orange blanket — Photo courtesy the Hudson family.

Updated: November 8, 2025: From the Hudson family, “Smokey X is doing well to be an almost 14-year-old boy! We are still in shock about his diagnosis, but we are extremely grateful to the UT Vet School for their amazing care of our precious Tennie! Minus age-related issues, his diet and mannerisms, etc., have remained unchanged, and for that, we are also very thankful!”

If you’d like to share messages of support, visit tiny.utk.edu/SmokeyX.

Smokey X poses in his custom-made vest. His tenure as mascot for the Tennessee Volunteers began during the 2013 football season. Photo by Kellie Crye Ward, UT Knoxville.

October 29, 2025 The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s, cherished retired live mascot, Smokey X, has been diagnosed with cancer. The nearly 14-year-old Bluetick Coonhound made his debut as a loyal ambassador for the Vols in the 2013 football season. At his recent biannual appointment at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, which included routine diagnostic imaging, a small mass was discovered on Smokey X’s kidney. Diagnostic sampling of the mass revealed it was a renal carcinoma (cancer of the kidney).

In true Smokey fashion, he demonstrated his unwavering loyalty to the Vols even during his CT scan. As he emerged from anesthesia to the notes of “Rocky Top,” Smokey rose to his feet, a testament to his indomitable spirit and love for the Volunteers.

The oncology service at the veterinary college has examined Smokey X to determine the best palliative care plan to provide pain relief and comfort during this challenging time. While it is difficult to predict exactly how much time he has, the goal is to help him enjoy each day with the best quality of life. At home, Smokey X continues to enjoy his time interacting with his two boys, including Smokey XI, and munching on his favorite salmon treats.

Paul Plummer, dean of the veterinary college, says it is both an honor and a privilege to care for Smokey X. “He has brought so much joy and pride to our university community over the years, and we are committed to providing him with the highest level of care and compassion. Our veterinary team is dedicated to ensuring that he remains comfortable and surrounded by love as he continues his journey.”

Smokey X has been an exceptional representative of the University, embodying the spirit and pride of the Vols. The Hudson family expresses their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers from the Big Orange Nation.

We will share updates on Smokey’s journey on this site. If you’d like to share messages of support, visit tiny.utk.edu/SmokeyX.