ESPN has parted ways with former Philadelphia Eagles lineman Hugh Douglas in the wake of his alleged confrontation with “Numbers Never Lie” co-host Michael Smith.
“He no longer works for us effective today,” an ESPN spokesperson said Tuesday, according to SI.com’s Richard Deitsch.
The news should not come as a shock to anyone after hearing the details that were laid out earlier this month regarding Douglas’ behavior during a trip to Florida for the National Association of Black Journalists convention. An initial report from The Big Lead stated that Douglas and Smith had a serious altercation at the House of Blues and had to be separated. Deadspin later added details to the story, citing a source who claimed Douglas was the aggressor. He was allegedly “wasted” and at one point called Smith an “Uncle Tom.”
Douglas acknowledged that he is no longer working at ESPN but chose not to comment further at this time.
I am very disappointed to be leaving ESPN and will have more to say about this situation and my future at the appropriate time
— Hugh Douglas (@Bighugh53) August 13, 2013
If the details of the incident are accurate, ESPN had no choice but to let Douglas go. It sounds like he made a fool of himself and had too much to drink on more than one occasion.
