There were some major doubts about FOX’s ability to replace NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe on “Undisputed” following his departure.
It’s not a secret that he had several run-ins with co-host Skip Bayless, who’s far from a beloved figure among athletes — both active and retired.
Sharpe agreed to a contract buyout and is reportedly set to join Bayless’ former co-host Stephen A. Smith on ESPN’s “First Take.”
That’s why Bayless tried to go all-in to try and stay alive in the ratings battle, announcing a new “dream team” for his show.
Bayless will be joined by a trio of former NFL players in Richard Sherman, Michael Irvin, and Keyshawn Johnson, and his lifelong friend Lil Wayne will drop the new opening song.
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
Truth be told, this is far from encouraging news, and he’s going to have a tough time trying to keep up with Sharpe in his new endeavor.
Sherman has faced plenty of criticism as an analyst, and Johnson was recently let go from ESPN.
As for Irvin, he might be the loud and hard-nosed debate counterpart he needs, but he’s a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan just like Bayless, so they might agree on most debates.
There have been multiple reports about Bayless not wanting to work with someone who could “beat him” or take the spotlight away from him.
Ironically, that pretty much kills the purpose of a sports debate show, so we will see how this new cast works out.
NEXT: Stephen A. Smith Denies Recent Shannon Sharpe Rumors