Stephen A. Smith's ESPN Contract Negotiations, NFL Fits Week 1, and UFC’s Ground Breaking Event at Vegas' Sphere
Key Updates on Stephen A. Smith's Future at ESPN, NFL Fashion, UFC 306 at the Sphere, and Manchester City's Noel Gallagher-Designed Kit
Stephen A. Smith Discusses ESPN Contract Negotiations
Stephen A. Smith recently addressed his contract negotiations with ESPN, as the network seeks to renew his deal. ESPN's chairman Jimmy Pitaro and content head Burke Magnus have expressed a strong desire to keep Smith, praising his versatility, work ethic, and the success of First Take. Smith, however, has countered ESPN’s offer, aiming to become the highest-paid talent, surpassing Troy Aikman’s $18 million annual salary.
Smith’s accomplishments are notable. First Take has dominated its time slot for 12 years, and Smith, as executive producer, has boosted the show’s success, recruiting Shannon Sharpe and mentoring other emerging talent. Though he values his relationship with ESPN and Disney, Smith is exploring other ventures, including his popular YouTube show and Hollywood production projects.
Smith has alternatives if a deal isn't reached. He could potentially replace Jimmy Kimmel on ABC’s late-night show, or take on more acting roles. With NBC Sports and Amazon Prime Video set to cover the NBA starting in 2025, they could also pursue Smith.
While Smith hopes to stay with ESPN, he’s prepared to move on if necessary, stating,
"If it’s aligned, we’ll work it out. If it’s not, then decisions have to be made." He emphasized his desire for fair compensation, saying, “I expect to get paid...I’m going to work my tail off and produce results to the best of my ability.”
I know some people have rolled their eyes at his “I expect to get paid” comments but the fact is he is one of the biggest draws in sports media and whether you like him or not, he does have a right to ask for top dollar because the network is making plenty through the attention he draws. If elite athletes can get their fair share I don’t see why it should be different for elite media personalities.
The NFL has always been a stage for athletes to showcase their skills, but in recent years, the pre-game walk from the bus to the locker room has become a runway of its own. Week 1 of the 2024 season was no exception, as players arrived with carefully curated outfits, turning heads before even stepping foot on the field.
The evolution of NFL fashion has transformed into an integral part of the culture, with athletes blending high-end streetwear, luxury brands, and personal flair to make a statement. Whether they’re embracing bold patterns, sleek suits, or custom pieces, today’s players are making it clear that impressing on game day starts long before the whistle blows.
Here are a few looks from Week 1
These guys are certainly showcasing their personal styles but it’s more than just being flashy. Many of these guys are positioning themselves as people of influence in the fashion space which is a whole other industry for them to exploit in the quest for security in life after sport.
Athletes are notorious for struggling with retirement, however, this generation is actively pursuing alternative interests and doing so while still in the limelight for maximum leverage. Some people would prefer they ‘stick to football’ but we’ve seen how that ends over decades. I support athletes thinking about alternative interests and planning ahead.
UFC to Host Major Event at Vegas' Sphere
The UFC is set to hold its highly anticipated UFC 306 event at the groundbreaking Sphere venue in Las Vegas, a high-tech entertainment marvel that first opened with a U2 concert. Dana White, UFC president, booked the venue last November after being inspired by its potential for live sports. This unique event, with a production budget of $20 million, features a bantamweight championship fight between Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili.
Unlike previous events at the Sphere, such as concerts and movies, UFC 306 will present challenges due to the unpredictability of live fights. UFC and Sphere Studios are focusing on creating dynamic visuals for the massive 160,000-square-foot screen, particularly between bouts. Additionally, the event will commemorate Mexico’s independence and its influence on combat sports.
Interestingly, in a reversal of usual UFC demand, the best seats are expected to be higher up for optimal viewing of the Sphere’s screen. Despite this shift, ticket prices have soared, averaging over $1,700, making it one of the most expensive events at the venue. UFC is expected to break its previous gate record set in 2016.
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Manchester City Unveils Noel Gallagher-Designed Kit
Fresh off four consecutive Premier League titles, England’s Manchester City revealed a new kit co-designed by Oasis’ Noel Gallagher, the team’s most famous fan. This jersey was revealed two weeks after the viral frenzy of Oasis announcing a comeback after fifteen years apart.
The Puma kit was announced with a creative photoshoot that recreated the iconic Definitely Maybe album cover, featuring players like Kyle Walker, Ederson, and Jess Park. Gallagher, a lifelong City fan, was present for the shoot, which included manager Pep Guardiola.
Gallagher shared his passion for Manchester City, saying, "I loved City before anything, even before music." The new kit features a light straw base color, with Manchester City's signature blue on the sleeves and collar, accented by pink cuffs and side panelling. The first appearance of the kit will be on September 18, when City faces Inter Milan in the Champions League.
This kit arrives during a major cultural moment for Manchester, with Oasis reuniting for a 2025 tour. Fans are excited about the upcoming concerts and the band's renewed collaboration. Whether Oasis’ tour goes smoothly or not, this kit will be remembered fondly and claim an iconic status for the city of Manchester.
Thanks for reading, David Skilling.
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