Following her departure from ESPN's flagship programme First Take, prominent sports presenter Molly Qerim has swiftly secured a new high-profile broadcasting position. The announcement was made on Thursday, confirming Qerim as the lead host for Zuffa Boxing, which will air exclusively on the Paramount+ streaming platform.
A New Chapter in Broadcasting
This role represents Qerim's first on-air commitment since her exit from ESPN in the autumn of last year. Her move concludes a period of speculation about her next career step following the conclusion of her contract with the sports media giant.
Familiar Faces and Star-Studded Team
Qerim will find herself working alongside former colleague Max Kellerman, who also previously featured on First Take. The broadcast team assembled for Zuffa Boxing boasts considerable experience and prestige within combat sports coverage.
The production features Joe Tessitore providing punch-by-punch commentary, with analytical insight coming from former world champions Andre Ward and Antonio Tarver, alongside respected boxing journalist Mike Coppinger. Reporting duties will be handled by Heidi Androl and Mark Kriegel, creating what promoters describe as a comprehensive and authoritative broadcast team.
Behind the Scenes of the ESPN Departure
In September, Qerim made her departure from First Take public through a heartfelt social media statement. "After much reflection, I've decided it's time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take," she wrote. "Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honours of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports."
She expressed profound gratitude to viewers, noting the "lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special" that the role provided.
Contract Negotiations and New Directions
ESPN's president of content, Burke Magnus, provided additional context in an interview with The Athletic. He confirmed that discussions about renewing Qerim's contract, which expired at the end of 2025, had taken place between both parties.
However, Magnus indicated that Qerim appeared keen to "explore other things" and suggested that "just weren't totally aligned" on future plans, leading to her departure from the network. This mutual decision marked the end of her tenure with ESPN after both sides determined she would leave following her contract's conclusion.
The Zuffa Boxing Venture
Zuffa Boxing represents a significant new player in the boxing broadcast landscape. The promotion is a joint venture between TKO Group Holdings—the parent company overseeing both UFC and WWE—and Sela, a company owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.
This partnership brings together substantial financial backing and combat sports expertise, aiming to create a premium boxing product for streaming audiences. Qerim's appointment as host signals the venture's commitment to securing established, recognisable broadcasting talent to front their coverage.
The move to Paramount+ provides the series with a dedicated streaming home, allowing for flexible viewing and potentially reaching a global audience interested in high-quality boxing content alongside experienced presentation.
