Stephen A. Smith denies massive ESPN deal rumor, but is it true?

There is no question that Stephen A. Smith is one of the most important and controversial sports commentators in the industry and people will see him on ESPN for much longer.

A report indicates that the sports and entertainment company and the air talent are very close to reaching an agreement on a contract extension and it will be a massive one, according to sources.

The deal has not been yet finalized, however both sides are very interested in continuing working together and to reward his good job, ESPN will pay him $120 million over six years.

The commentator says otherwise

Stephen A. Smith will definitely remain working for ESPN but the commentator does not admit that there is a deal near getting done as he spoke to The Athletic about the matter in a definitive matter.

"Here's my quote, 'I was born AT NIGHT, not last night. I don't talk about my contract negotiations. Never have. Never will," Smith told The Athletic. He previously said the report was "false" that the deal was close.

ESPN signed deals for Joe Buck, Troy Aikman and Pat McAfee and all of them are for a lot of money, but Stephen A. is seeking around the same figures that their fellow commentators, as he is a part of plenty of shows including Firs Take and attracts a large number of audiences.