A Fresh Start After ESPN
After leaving her role on ESPN’s First Take in the fall of 2025, Molly Qerim has quickly moved on to a new opportunity. On Thursday, she was announced as the host of Zuffa Boxing on Paramount+, marking her first on-air role since departing the network.
Qerim shared a heartfelt farewell to First Take on social media in September, reflecting on the “lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special” during her time on the show.
Reuniting With Familiar Faces
The new role will see Qerim working alongside former First Take colleague Max Kellerman, as well as a roster of experienced boxing analysts and commentators. The lineup includes announcer Joe Tessitore, former champions Andre Ward and Antonio Tarver, journalist Mike Coppinger, and reporters Heidi Androl and Mark Kriegel.
Zuffa Boxing is a partnership between TKO, the parent company of the UFC and WWE, and Sela, owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, aiming to expand boxing coverage on Paramount+.
Moving On From ESPN
ESPN’s President of Content, Burke Magnus, told The Athletic that Qerim’s departure came after her contract expired at the end of 2025. Although discussions were held about renewing her contract, Magnus explained that Qerim wanted to “explore other things,” and both sides ultimately agreed to part ways.
This new position gives Qerim a fresh platform to continue her sports broadcasting career, now stepping into the world of professional boxing.
