Molly Qerim's New Role: Hosting Zuffa Boxing
Molly Qerim has landed her first new role after her exit from ESPN. Qerim is set to host Zuffa Boxing, a joint venture between TKO and Saudi entertainment conglomerate Sela. The inaugural event is scheduled for Friday at the META Apex in Las Vegas, with coverage airing on Paramount+.
Qerim will be joined by a talented team, including former light heavyweight champion Antonio Tarver, insider Mike Coppinger, and longtime boxing reporter Mark Kriegel. The announce team features Joe Tessitore, Max Kellerman, and former middleweight and light heavyweight champion Andre Ward. Heidi Androl, known for her work with the UFC and NHL Network, will be the ringside reporter.
This marks a reunion for Qerim and Kellerman, who previously worked together for years on ESPN's 'First Take'. Qerim hosted the show for over a decade before her departure last year.
Zuffa Boxing is a significant venture, with executives Turki Alalshikh, WWE president Nick Khan, and UFC president and CEO Dana White involved. White expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Paramount, stating, 'Right from the beginning, we’ve completely jelled, and it’s only going to get better.'
The main card on Friday night will feature three exciting fights: Callum Walsh vs. Carlos Ocampo, Misael Rodriguez vs. Austin Deanda, and Julian Rodriguez vs. Cain Sandoval. Prelim coverage begins at 6 pm ET, followed by the main card at 9 pm ET on Paramount+.
Editor's Note: RedBird Capital's investment in both Paramount and Front Office Sports through its joint venture RedBird IMI is acknowledged.
