Since when have they been "pro's". Being a sponsored rider and being a professional rider are two completely different things. If you're a sponsored rider, but still work a day job to earn money to be able to live, you're sponsored. If your sole income is due to riding, you're a professional. As far as I'm aware, none of Dengs team are full professional riders. Same as Ali, Stan, etc. are all sponsored riders, but not professionals. In my opinion.