According to a Tuesday report from Variety, Smith and ESPN were nearing a contract extension after months of negotiating, making Smith potentially the highest-paid personality at ESPN.
The deal is set to include a first-look agreement for Smith-backed concepts across Disney's general-entertainment properties, giving the sports commentator expanded access within The Walt Disney Company.
When The Athletic reached out to him, Smith said, 'False', before adding that he does not talk about contract negotiations. 'Never have, never will,' he said.
Russo seemingly made it known he was well aware of Smith's impending contract situation, jokingly suggesting Smith was 'very chipper' in light of the negotiations.
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