Dave Portnoy Trashes ESPN, Explains Why Previous Deal with the Network Went South: ‘Never Wanted Anything to Do with Us’

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy explained Friday why his previous deal with ESPN didn’t work out and why he believes his new deal with Fox has a much better chance.

Two days earlier, it was reported that Barstool and Fox Sports were nearing a deal that would see Portnoy added to the college football pre-game show Big Noon Kickoff. The deal would also bring Barstool content to the flagship channel FS1. Reports of the deal came after Fox cancelled several shows and even let go of host Joy Taylor.

Portnoy confirmed Thursday that the deal was done, saying it was the first time Barstool has ever had a “TV partner we believe in and believes in us.”

Barstool previously tried its hand at TV when it partnered with ESPN for the show Van Talk in 2017. It lasted just one episode before being canceled.

During an interview on Fox & Friends, Portnoy explained why he thinks the partnership with Fox should fare better:

So when we did the ESPN deal, they, they looked like they had a sour taste in their mouth every time they looked at me. They really hated us. They, at the time, wanted to get two of our talent: PFT Commenter, Big Cat. PFT, very successful podcast.

But they wanted nothing to do with Barstool. They were embarrassed by it. They didn’t want to touch it. They didn’t want to admit that they’re associated with it. Fox is the exact opposite. They’re embracing everything we do. They’re embracing why people like us. They are basically going to be a true partner.

ESPN never wanted anything to do with us — publicly. Behind closed doors, “Hey, we want their audience; we want their people; but let’s pretend like we actually don’t like them.” I never liked ESPN. I should have never done a deal with ESPN. I hate ESPN, so I’m very happy that we’re with Fox Sports.

Watch above via Fox News.