Molly Kerim Returns to Television with Zuffa Boxing

Molly Kerim is making her comeback to television after her sudden departure from First Take last September.

She will host Zuffa Boxing, a collaborative effort between TKO and Sela, and it’s backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund. The inaugural event is set for Friday and will air on Paramount+.

Interestingly, she’ll be reconnecting with Max Kellerman, a colleague from First Take, with whom she spent many years working.

In this new role, Kerim will co-host Zuffa Boxing’s desk program alongside former light heavyweight champion Antonio Tarver, Mike Coppinger, and boxing reporter Mark Kriegel.

Kellerman is also part of the broadcast team, which features Joe Tessitore, former champions Andre Ward, and ringside reporter Heidi Androl.

This opportunity marks Kerim’s first position since leaving ESPN after the Sports Business Journal revealed her departure was forthcoming in 2025.

In her September announcement on social media, she stated, “After much consideration, I have decided that it is time to close this wonderful chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career.” She expressed gratitude for the experiences, friendships, and memories created during her time on the show.

Burke Magnus, ESPN’s president of content, clarified in an interview that Kerim’s exit was planned before she made her statement, noting that discussions were had regarding renewing her contract, but she ultimately sought other opportunities due to differing views.

Since stepping down, Kerim has kept a relatively low profile but did share a photo from a trip to Abu Dhabi on Instagram last December.