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Update:
ESPN has reached an agreement with Keyshawn Johnson on an $18 million buyout and Keyshawn will join Skip Bayless as his new partner on FS1’s Undisputed, according to New York Post’ Andrew Marchand.
Richard Sherman and Michael Irvin are also on board.
Original Story:
Skip Bayless‘ recent announcement regarding Keyshawn Johnson’s inclusion on FS1’s ‘Undisputed‘ appears to have been premature, according to Ryan Glasspiegel of the New York Post.
Skip Bayless, the outspoken host of ‘Undisputed,’ excitedly revealed that Keyshawn Johnson would be joining him on the show as a commentator. However, according to Glasspiegel the announcement has hit a roadblock due to Johnson’s current contractual ties with ESPN.
Keyshawn Johnson, a former NFL wide receiver, was reportedly in the second year of a lucrative five-year contract with ESPN, worth approximately $18 million. Unfortunately for Johnson, he was informed that he was being laid off by the sports network despite being only two years into his contract.
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
While Skip Bayless seemed enthusiastic about bringing Johnson on board, as his all-caps tweet indicates, the potential move is now in limbo as ESPN has not yet officially released him from his existing contract.
This situation could potentially complicate Johnson’s plans to enter the sports media industry while his current contract remains active.