A Fresh Start After ESPN
Former ESPN host Molly Qerim, best known for her work on First Take, has quickly moved on from her departure, landing a new role as the host of Zuffa Boxing on Paramount+. This marks her first on-air position since leaving ESPN in the fall of 2025.
In a social media statement last September, Qerim reflected on her time at First Take: “Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors 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 — and with all of you, the best fans in the world. I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special.”
Reuniting With Familiar Faces
At Zuffa Boxing, Qerim will be reunited with Max Kellerman, another former First Take personality. The broadcast team also features punch-by-punch announcer Joe Tessitore, analysts Andre Ward, Antonio Tarver, and Mike Coppinger, as well as reporters Heidi Androl and Mark Kriegel.
The promotion itself is a collaboration between TKO, the parent company of UFC and WWE, and Sela, owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, aiming to bring high-profile boxing events to Paramount+ audiences.
Departure From ESPN Explained
ESPN President of Content Burke Magnus told The Athletic that Qerim’s exit followed the expiration of her contract at the end of 2025. While both sides had discussed a renewal, Magnus said Qerim wanted to “explore other things,” and the company and host ultimately “weren’t totally aligned.”
Her move to Zuffa Boxing marks a new chapter in her career, allowing her to continue in sports broadcasting while branching into the growing world of professional boxing coverage.
