The ESPYS 2026 served up a classic mix of heartfelt moments and pure comedy. Marcello Hernández owned the stage with his monologue, bringing the house down—and Will Ferrell even jumped in to “translate” his jokes, because why not? Steph Curry took home the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award, a nod to his impact off the court, while the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance went to Jim Abbott, reminding us all what grit looks like.
The night wasn’t just about the stars. Alysa Liu broke through as Breakthrough Athlete of the Year, and Jalen Brunson snagged Best NBA Player—no surprise there, given his season. Over in soccer, the drama kept coming: Argentina booked their World Cup final spot, and fans went ballistic as Curtis Gordon put England ahead against Argentina. But Messi, ever the killer, said Argentina sensed England ‘didn’t want it anymore.’ Ouch. Harry Kane echoed that sentiment, calling England’s exit a familiar tale of woe. And Frank Leboeuf didn’t hold back, blaming Thomas Tuchel for the semifinal loss.
Oh, and Jake Paul? He told Pat McAfee he’d love to fight Dwayne Johnson. The Rock, if you’re listening, the offer’s on the table. Plus, Darian Mensah explained why he transferred to Miami—because who doesn’t want to play in the Sunshine State? The ESPYS delivered the heat, as always.