Skip Bayless and FS1’s “Undisputed” are back, and his new debate crew is around already.
Bayless kicked off the first episode of “Undisputed” in two months by introducing the members of his “dream team,” which includes three former NFL stars in Richard Sherman, Keyshawn Johnson, and Michael Irvin.
“This is the greatest morning of my career!” Bayless said. “This is about to be the greatest show I’ve ever been a part of.”
DON’T MISS: Shannon Sharpe's departure has put Fox, Skip Bayless in a bind
The trio serve as the replacements for Shannon Sharpe, who left “Undisputed” after the conclusion of the 2023 NBA Finals in mid-June. Sharpe made two massive announcements last week -- joining Stephen A. Smith as a bi-weekly debate partner on ESPN’s “First Take” and bringing his podcast “Club Shay Shay” over to Colin Cowherd’s media company The Volume.
There had been several reports about the members of Bayless’ new broadcasting crew, but Bayless first announced it on social media last week. Johnson’s role was also reportedly at risk due to his layoff from ESPN, but he reached a buyout with his former employer last week that has allowed him to join Fox (FOXA) -).
RICHARD SHERMAN! KEYSHAWN JOHNSON! MICHAEL IRVIN! NEW DREAM TEAM ON THE NEW UNDISPUTED. NEW LIL WAYNE INTRO SONG, "GOOD MORNING." NEXT MONDAY. AUGUST 28. 9:30 E, FS1. BE THERE.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) August 22, 2023
Johnson made a light jab at the contract dispute with ESPN during his “Undisputed” introduction after Bayless mentioned that he “fought” to have all three men as his next partners.
“It was a fight, it wasn’t easy that’s for sure,” Johnson said to some laughs from the crew.
More Fox:
- Fox Sports Reportedly Taking MLB Legend Away From ESPN Broadcast With Exclusive Deal
- Skip Bayless will debate on ‘Undisputed’ with ex-NFL star he's publicly argued with
- Fox reportedly looking at 4 potential candidates to replace Shannon Sharpe on 'Undisputed'
Lil Wayne is also expected to join Bayless on the show, and the show led off with a new intro song made by the rapper.
While Bayless seemed enthusiastic about having his new trio on the show, a report from Front Office Sports says many within Fox are skeptical about “Undisputed” copying the format of rotating debate partners that “First Take” has done with Smith.
“This is the greatest morning of my career! This is about to be the greatest show I’ve ever been a part of. Welcome to the new Undisputed!”@RealSkipBayless pic.twitter.com/vRG80Di08H
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) August 28, 2023
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