In the Season 5 finale of Ink Master: Rivals , was crowned the winner, defeating runners-up James "Cleen Rock One" Steinke and Erik Siuda . The episode concluded a season centered on rivalries between contestants, with Jason returning from Season 3 to claim the $100,000 prize and a feature in Inked Magazine . The Master Canvas Challenge
For the final challenge, the three finalists were tasked with creating a 35-hour master canvas back piece in a style of their choice. : Tattooed a Japanese-inspired back piece. [S5E16] Ink Finale
: The season featured established rivals, such as Jason Clay Dunn vs. Joshua Hibbard and Cleen Rock One vs. Tim Lees. In the Season 5 finale of Ink Master:
: Created a large-scale piece that was highly regarded for its technical skill, though critics and fans often noted it deviated slightly from the specific challenge requirements or "look" the judges expected. : Tattooed a Japanese-inspired back piece
The judges' final decision was split. One judge favored Jason because he "hit the mark" on the specific finale challenge, while another preferred Cleen due to his superior and consistent performance throughout the entire season. Ultimately, Jason’s Japanese-inspired piece was deemed the stronger entry for the finale itself, leading to his victory.
: A major turning point occurred earlier in the season when Joshua Hibbard , a top contender, was disqualified for breaking competition rules regarding contraband (marijuana).