While looking at Stephen A. Smith’s media empire, it’s easy to forget that ESPN once fired him. The famous commentator had to scratch and claw his way back to glory. While only a few can relate to that sinking feeling, it also helped him in forging a friendship with Alex Rodriguez. At least according to A-Rod – that’s what helped him in relating with Smith.

During their recent conversation in A-Rod’s The Deal, the two discussed the rise and fall and then resurrection of Stephen A. Smith’s career. During one of those talks, Rodriguez shared how he related with Smith due to his struggles. For A-Rod, it reminded him of his own suspension in 2014 – an event so big it almost ruined the superstar’s dream of being a Hall-of-Famer. 

“He had his downtime when ESPN let you go and you came back, I had my downturn on my suspension. The last decade for both of us has been a lot better,” A-Rod said while talking to Smith. He noted that there was a “lot in common” between the two. Their shared struggles, small beginnings, and life-altering setbacks are the reason for their bond.

Stephen A. Smith hosted “Quite Frankly” on ESPN from 2005-07. While his show was highly successful, the costs of running it in New York made it unviable for the company. As a result, ESPN canceled his show and let him go. That was a devastating moment for him but he hoped to be back soon. After a 10-month struggle, Smith found a job at Fox Sports Radio but his salary fell from $1.3 million in ESPN to $360,000 in his new gig (via New York Post). 

However, it wasn’t long before ESPN came back calling for him. In 2011 he once again became a part of the company. This time he transformed himself into a leading commentator. That’s something that inspired A-Rod.

Alex Rodriguez’s 2014 struggles still haunt him 

Alex Rodriguez was forced to spend the entire 2014 season at his home due to his PED use. For A-Rod, the impact of that was much more than just some lost dollars. Though he did lose $40 million of salary (via Bleacher Report), the loss of reputation hurt him more. No longer was A-Rod the beloved Yankee. His reputation had already taken a hit in 2009 deep dived after he was once again found to be using PEDs. 

Rodriguez predicted, “It cost me my reputation, and it may have cost me the Hall of Fame,” and that prediction remains true. The superstar hasn’t crossed 36% of votes in his three years of eligibility. To enter Cooperstown a player needs at least 75%. Still, Rodriguez hopes to do what Stephen A. Smith did and rise through the ashes. But can he do it in 2025 or beyond or is he going to the way of Barry Bonds?