Up Front with Simon Jordan

Folding Pocket and William Hill

This is Up Front with Simon Jordan, a podcast from William Hill which sees the broadcaster and former Premier League club owner test the biggest names in sport. Simon will ask the questions most interviewers shy away from and hold his guests opinions up to proper scrutiny. He will investigate how sporting challenge, achievement and experience have influenced athlete’s lives whilst imparting his own forthright views on a range of sports and topics. Expect some twists, robust debates and high-profile sportsmen and women being put under the spotlight in the company of Simon. How will they cope with a forensic examination of their views, career, successes and failures? This is Up Front, brought to you by William Hill. 18+ please gamble responsibly. read less

Our Editor's Take

The Up Front with Simon Jordan podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with sporting legends. Simon is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for football (called soccer in the US). He made history as the youngest owner of an English Football League club when he bought Crystal Palace FC at the age of 32. His father had always supported Crystal Palace, so Simon became a fan at a young age. Four years later, he made history again as the youngest owner of a Premier League football club.

Through his experience with Crystal Palace, Simon became a recognizable personality in football. Over the years, he has shared his honest opinions on radio and TV and written a newspaper column for the Daily Mail. This podcast is his way of directing the conversation and asking essential questions. Simon encourages Up Front with Simon Jordan listeners to expect the unexpected. He promises rare insights into different sports and total honesty throughout.

One episode discusses the idea that "Society would not accept a black Simon Jordan." Simon interviews former player, manager, and now respected pundit John Barnes. Together they discuss the lack of representation within England's football leagues. Why aren't there more black managers? John talks about how former manager Graham Taylor spoke out about racism and how this affected him. The high-energy interview starts with John sharing his story and how he got into the sport. It's only a short time before they enjoy a passionate debate about racial inequality in football.

Former goalie David James joins another episode. He discusses his career and how goalkeeping has changed over the years. David also talks about the criticism he received and how the media changed the narrative. Other podcast guests include boxing champion Carl Froch and darts icon James Wade.

Up Front with Simon Jordan features conversations and debates with insightful sports personalities. Simon is fearless in having honest discussions and debating challenging topics. It's a fun podcast for sports fans who want to hear more from the players behind the games. New episodes premiere weekly.

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John Terry | "I owe Mourinho everything but he still scares the life out of me!"

John Terry | "I owe Mourinho everything but he still scares the life out of me!"

On today's episode we are joined by a Chelsea legend who led the club through an unprecedented era of success, winning every available trophy along the way.John Terry is a serial winner, a stalwart defender and, for many, the ultimate leader. The former England captain often divided opinion throughout his career, combining outstanding play with off the field issues to become one of the most notable members of ‘the golden generation’.A rare presence in the media, John joins the show to discuss the key moments in a remarkable career, offering a unique insight into an increasingly private life and opens up on his plans for the future.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language. 18+ gamble responsibly.

Episodes

John Terry | "I owe Mourinho everything but he still scares the life out of me!"

John Terry | "I owe Mourinho everything but he still scares the life out of me!"

On today's episode we are joined by a Chelsea legend who led the club through an unprecedented era of success, winning every available trophy along the way.John Terry is a serial winner, a stalwart defender and, for many, the ultimate leader. The former England captain often divided opinion throughout his career, combining outstanding play with off the field issues to become one of the most notable members of ‘the golden generation’.A rare presence in the media, John joins the show to discuss the key moments in a remarkable career, offering a unique insight into an increasingly private life and opens up on his plans for the future.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language. 18+ gamble responsibly.

Callum Smith | “Boxing’s just a popularity contest now… look at Ryan Garcia”

Callum Smith | “Boxing’s just a popularity contest now… look at Ryan Garcia”

On today’s episode we are joined by the youngest of four brothers from one of the most famous boxing families. Fighting out of Liverpool and coached by Joe Gallagher, Callum Smith went on to gain British and European success at super middleweight before overcoming George Groves for the WBA Strap.His continued rise within Boxing led him face to face with Cancelo Alvarez, which unfortunately for Smith became his first loss. Smith dusted himself off and aimed to become two-weight world champion but fell short against Artur Beterbiev, leaving his career at a crossroads.Callum Smith joins the show to talk about what his career now holds in store, and reflect on his unique background and incredible success. He discusses the pitfalls of the often murky world of professional boxing, his thoughts on his more brash and vocal peers and opens up on his plans for the future.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language and references to violence. Listener discretion advised.Remember, 18+ for gambling responsibly.

Ellis Genge | “Rugby has a class problem that it NEEDS to fix!”

Ellis Genge | “Rugby has a class problem that it NEEDS to fix!”

On today’s episode we are joined by a top England Rugby International, who in recent times won the Premiership title with Leicester Tigers before returning to his roots with Bristol Bears. Ellis Genge faced early struggles in his life, growing up in the working class area of Knowle West in Bristol. An angry young man who faced problems in school and with the law, he found solace in an unlikely place - Rugby. A sport which helped him channel his anger and where he found belonging and structure.Now the star of the ‘Full Contact’ Netflix documentary series and a well respected leader for club and country, Ellis has been capped for England 58 times, lifting the Six Nations trophy in 2020 after finishing as runner-up at the World Cup in 2019. He joins the show to talk about his unconventional journey in Rugby. His career under head coaches Eddie Jones and Steve Borthwick whilst giving his unfiltered opinion on the issues the sport faces in 2024 and beyond.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language and references to violence. Listener discretion advised.Remember, 18+ for gambling responsibly.

Michael Ballack | “Alonso’s Leverkusen is great for the Bundesliga and for Bayern”

Michael Ballack | “Alonso’s Leverkusen is great for the Bundesliga and for Bayern”

On today’s episode we are joined by one of the greats of German Football. Born in East Germany at a time of upheaval and division, Michael Ballack went on to become a legend for his country, making 98 appearances and scoring 42 goals.Through playing street football at an early age, Ballack found his love for the game and knew he wanted to become a pro. He came to prominence at Kaiserslautern and was part of the side that did the unthinkable by winning the Bundesliga in 1997. His impressive performances earned him a move to Bayer Leverkusen and individually he continued to excel, as well as his stock amongst Europe’s elite. Collectively however, they failed to win any silverware following two consecutive years of falling at the last hurdle. Ballack would rectify this though, by joining the Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and win multiple titles and cups.Still eager for more success and new challenges, he swapped Munich for London, joining Abrahmovic’s revolution at Chelsea in 2006, to play under Jose Mourinho. He’d go on to win the premier league and a series of cups before heading back to Leverkusen in 2010, where he’d finish his career.Michael joins the show and talks about his football journey, opening up on his time at Leverkusen, the exceptionally high standards at Bayern Munich and playing under Jose Mourinho. He also talks about how Xabi Alonso has brought a winning mentality to Leverkusen and how he’s transformed the club, whilst giving his honest opinion on the German National Side and their realistic prospects for the Euros.Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Gianfranco Zola | "This Chelsea team isn't ready, they look intimidated!"

Gianfranco Zola | "This Chelsea team isn't ready, they look intimidated!"

On today’s episode we are joined by one of the most iconic Italians to grace the Premier League. From humble beginnings in Sardinia, Gianfranco Zola was famed for playing the game in a beautiful way. He became one of the rising stars in his hometown which earned him a big money move to Napoli who were led by the God-like figure Diego Maradona.After impressing in Naples, he moved to Parma and formed a deadly partnership with Faustino Asprilla, challenging Juventus for the Serie A title. However, he struggled for game time the following season under manager Carlo Ancelotti, which opened the door for Zola to make the move to Stamford Bridge. His audacious, entertaining style of play helped ignite Chelsea’s late resurgence in the late 90’s and he became a firm favourite for the blues. He’s also widely seen as a trailblazer who formed English football’s early foreign revolution.After finishing his playing career back home in Sardinia, Gianfranco moved into management, managing teams such as West Ham, Watford and Birmingham City, often under extremely challenging ownership groups. Gianfranco joins the show and opens up on those challenging situations whilst giving his honest opinion on the current footballing landscape and the state of his beloved Chelsea FC.Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Jack Wilshere | “Arsenal will win the league under Mikel Arteta… Eventually”

Jack Wilshere | “Arsenal will win the league under Mikel Arteta… Eventually”

On today's episode we are joined by a player who burst onto the scene for Arsenal as a teenager, showing a tenacity and technical ability that few English players have ever possessed. After a breakout performance against Messi and Guardiola’s Barcelona, the sky seemed to be the limit for Jack Wilshere but an ongoing ankle issue would lead to him retiring from the game at age 30 after spells at Bournemouth, West Ham and AGF in the Danish Superliga.Now a coach in the Arsenal system under Mikel Arteta, Jack joins the show to discuss a career that excited and frustrated in equal measure whilst also giving the inside scoop on Arteta’s Arsenal revolution.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language. 18+ gamble responsibly.

Paul Ince | “Inter Milan was a fresh start for me… I think Rashford needs one too!”

Paul Ince | “Inter Milan was a fresh start for me… I think Rashford needs one too!”

On today’s episode, we are joined by a two time Premier League winner with over 50 caps for England.Paul Ince’s 20 year career took him from his local club West Ham, to Italy, Old Trafford and Anfield as he became one of the few players to represent both sides of the Premier League’s fiercest rivalry…Paul went on to become a manager, learning his trade at Macclesfield Town and MK Dons before a short stint in the Premier League with Blackburn Rovers. In 2022 he joined Reading FC but after a tumultuous spell that featured point deductions, an absent owner and a transfer embargo he left the club last year.’The Guv’nor’ joins the show to discuss his challenging upbringing, his bust ups with Sir Alex Ferguson and his difficult time at Reading, whilst also giving his thoughts on the future prospects of his former clubs.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language. 18+ gamble responsibly.

Les Ferdinand | “They cared more about stopping the Super League than stopping racism!”

Les Ferdinand | “They cared more about stopping the Super League than stopping racism!”

On today’s episode, we are joined by a Premier League great who started off in non-league football and went on to become PFA Player of the Year.Les Ferdinand enjoyed a successful and varied career playing for clubs such as QPR, Tottenham Hotspur as well as being part of the ‘great entertainers’ under Kevin Keegan at Newcastle United. After retirement he returned to West London and took up the role as Director of Football at QPR, becoming the first British black person to hold that position.After stepping down last year ‘Sir Les’ as he is affectionately known joins the show to discuss his unconventional route to superstardom, opening up on his time at Tottenham and Newcastle, his turbulent tenure at QPR and the issues black former players are facing to find jobs in football.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language. 18+ gamble responsibly.

Leon Edwards | "He used my Dad's death to sell the fight, I couldn't wait to hurt him"

Leon Edwards | "He used my Dad's death to sell the fight, I couldn't wait to hurt him"

In this episode, we are joined by our first ever guest from the world of MMA, the welterweight world champion of the world Leon Edwards.One of just 3 UFC champions ever from the UK, Leon has a unique story full of tragedy, resilience and glory. Born in Jamaica before moving to Birmingham, Leon was raised around gang culture, tragically losing his father to gun crime at a young age. MMA would be his salvation, and he now sits on top of the MMA world having not tasted defeat in 9 years.Join us as we discuss the rise of Mixed Martial Arts, Leon’s incredible rise, his battles against Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington and the future of crossover fights.Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language and references to violence. Listener discretion advised. Remember, 18+ for gambling responsibly.

Kell Brook | "I want to fight Chris Eubank Jr, I dislike him more than Amir Khan"

Kell Brook | "I want to fight Chris Eubank Jr, I dislike him more than Amir Khan"

In this episode, we are joined by Sheffield's own, former welterweight champion of the world Kell Brook.In a long career that featured 40 wins and only 3 losses, Kell fought the very best, never turning down a fight, even when the odds were stacked against him. He won his IBF welterweight championship of the world in historic fashion beating Shawn Porter in his own backyard to put the world on notice.Known for his sharp technical skills, devastating power, and resilience, Kell is best known for his rivalry with Amir Khan and his blockbuster bouts against the likes of Gennady Golovkin and Terence Crawford.Join us as we delve into the highs and lows of Kell Brook's extraordinary career, from career threatening injuries and public substance abuse issues to sitting on top of the sporting world, Kell has had a career that has featured triumphs and battles in equal measure.A career that may in fact not be over yet…Subscribe now for the full episode and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan.Warning: This episode may contain strong language and references to violence. Viewer discretion advised. Remember, 18+ for gambling responsibly.

Peter Schmeichel | "I don’t recognise Manchester United anymore, there's no identity!"

Peter Schmeichel | "I don’t recognise Manchester United anymore, there's no identity!"

On today’s episode, we are joined by the Manchester United and Danish icon, Peter Schmeichel. Regarded by many as the greatest goalkeeper in Premier League history, Schmeichel was a leader in a dominant Manchester United side, winning the treble in 1999 as well as inspiring his native Denmark to a shock title at the European Championship in 1992.Join us as we delve into Schmeichel's incredible career, from his early days in Denmark to his time under Sir Alex Ferguson. We get the inside scoop on a dressing room filled with explosive characters like Eric Cantona and Roy Keane, whilst Peter gives his opinion on the signing of Andre Onana and the current state his old club find themselves in…Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.Competition terms and conditions are available at the following link: https://wh.bet/UpFront100k

Jesse Marsch | “I didn’t want the Leeds job, I told them to keep Bielsa!”

Jesse Marsch | “I didn’t want the Leeds job, I told them to keep Bielsa!”

On this week’s episode we are joined by a rarity in English football an American in the dugout. Jesse Marsch started his career in the MLS before moving into football’s Red Bull model. After spells in Salzburg and Leipzig, he moved to the Premier League, leading one of the country’s most iconic clubs in Leeds United.Charged with saving the club from relegation after a period of decline under Marcelo Bielsa, his tenure started successfully before ending abruptly 12 months later.Are American managers disrespected in the British game? Why did he he turn down the Southampton job? And did he ultimately deserve to be sacked? No question will be left unanswered in this week’s episode of Up Front.Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.Competition terms and conditions are available at the following link: https://wh.bet/UpFront100k

Seb Coe | "If I don’t protect the female category, no woman will ever win a medal again"

Seb Coe | "If I don’t protect the female category, no woman will ever win a medal again"

On today’s episode, we are joined by a double Olympic champion who went on to play a pivotal role in bringing the Olympic Games to London in 2012. From athlete to administrator, Sebastian Coe has been one of the key figures in the world of athletics for nearly 45 years.A world record breaker, his career was marked by rivalries with Steve Ovett and Steve Cram which electrified the nation as they went on to dominate the 1980 games in Moscow and the 1984 games in Los Angeles.Now the president of World Athletics, Seb joins the show to provide insight on the key issues facing the Olympic movement. From the banning of Russian and Belarusian athletes to doping prevention, the transgender issue and beyond.Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.T&C’s: https://wh.bet/UpFront100k

UP FRONT WRAPPED 2023

UP FRONT WRAPPED 2023

In this special episode of Up Front, we take a look back on the first year of the podcast. Since the first episode was released in April, we have welcomed some of the most compelling and talented people from across the world of sport onto the show. In this end of year special Simon will give you an insight into his favourite moments, anecdotes and arguments of the series so far whilst also giving you insight into what the show is like behind the scenes… With more interesting episodes coming up in the new year, make sure you are subscribed to the channel so you won’t miss a thing.

Robbie Fowler | "Michael Owen was fast… but I was the better striker in every way”

Robbie Fowler | "Michael Owen was fast… but I was the better striker in every way”

On today’s episode, we are joined by Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler. The epitome of ‘local lad done good’ Robbie Fowler was one of the most naturally gifted goal scorers to grace the Premier League earning him the nickname 'God' among the Anfield faithful.Nobody in Premier League history has scored as many goals as quickly as Fowler. His tally of 64 goals before the age of 21 surpassed the records of football luminaries like Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen. After retiring Robbie became a manager and after failing to secure an opportunity on domestic shores, he ventured abroad, leading clubs in Thailand, India, Australia and most recently Saudi Arabia. Join us as we delve into Fowler's exceptional career, as he opens up on his painful split with Liverpool and his rivalry with Michael Owen whilst also giving insight into his departure from Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia…Subscribe for future episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Chris Eubank Snr | "I’ve always backed Conor Benn, I think he beats them all"

Chris Eubank Snr | "I’ve always backed Conor Benn, I think he beats them all"

In this episode, we are joined by 2-weight world champion Chris Eubank Snr, a boxing legend whose journey from South London to the ring via New York is etched in boxing folklore. Eubank was known for his eccentricity and unique blend of charisma and showmanship which made him a standout figure in the world of boxing and beyond.During the 1990s, Eubank engaged in two legendary clashes with Nigel Benn that brought Britain to a standstill. Now their sons are set to face off in a clash that has been controversial since the very beginning. Chris joins the show to open up on his legendary battles, his thoughts on the potential clash between Conor Benn and Eubank Jr whilst giving his forthright views on the the current state of boxing in a way that only Chris Eubank can…Subscribe for future episodes and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan for full video episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Ricky Hatton | “I’d rather be loved in my hometown than rich like Floyd Mayweather Jr"

Ricky Hatton | “I’d rather be loved in my hometown than rich like Floyd Mayweather Jr"

On this week's episode, we sit down with one of the most beloved British boxers of all time - Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton.Hatton's journey from a council estate in Hattersley to becoming a two-weight world boxing champion is the stuff of legend. His epic showdowns with boxing giants Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao saw thousands follow him to Las Vegas, leaving a mark on boxing history. But it was his memorable IBF light-welterweight title victory against Kostya Tszyu in Manchester back in 2005 that remains the pinnacle of his career, a night etched in the hearts of an entire nation.Join us for a raw and deeply honest exploration of Hatton's highs and lows, from conquering multiple weight divisions to dealing with personal challenges beyond the ring.Subscribe for future episodes, 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Michael Owen | “You don't have to be THAT GOOD to be a Premier League player anymore”

Michael Owen | “You don't have to be THAT GOOD to be a Premier League player anymore”

On today’s episode we are joined by one of only four Englishmen to win the Ballon d’Or. Michael Owen was a phenom who burst onto the scene with THAT goal against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup.He went on to score over 150 goals for Liverpool before becoming a ‘Galactico’ at Real Madrid. He returned to England in 2005, joining Newcastle United but his injuries had started to take their toll. He would go on to win a Premier League title at Liverpool’s hated rivals Manchester United before calling time on his career at Stoke City.Giving the inside scoop on his turbulent time at Newcastle United, challenging public perceptions of his character, and offering his thoughts on the current state of the Premier League, Michael joins the show to reflect on his career that featured brilliance and frustration in equal measure.Subscribe for future episodes and head to www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan for full video episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Derek Chisora | "See this is why Tyson Fury doesn't like you!"

Derek Chisora | "See this is why Tyson Fury doesn't like you!"

On this week's episode, we sit down with a true force of nature in the world of boxing - Derek Chisora.From his meteoric rise as a British heavyweight contender, capturing the public's attention with his raw power and fearless attitude, to facing off against some of the sport's biggest names, Chisora has showcased his warrior spirit time and again. His battles against the likes of Vitali Klitschko, Dillian Whyte, and Oleksandr Usyk have earned him a spot in boxing history.The ever-unpredictable Derek has a bone to pick with Simon as he sits down to discuss his career, the 'fairness' of Simon's coverage and the state of the heavyweight division.Subscribe for future episodes and head to http://www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSi... for full video episodes. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: this episode contains language that some people may find offensive.

Rick Parry EFL Chair | “Attendance in League 2 is within the top 10 leagues in Europe”

Rick Parry EFL Chair | “Attendance in League 2 is within the top 10 leagues in Europe”

On this week's episode Simon sits down with EFL Chair Rick Parry, a visionary in English football. As the top-flight's chief executive, he brokered the largest TV rights deal in history at the time, £700million, and the division prospered. He was also Liverpool's chief executive for 12 years, presiding over that iconic Champions league triumph in Istanbul.Now, in his current role as the chairman of the English Football League, Parry continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of English football. We'll delve into his experiences, insights, and the challenges he's faced along the way. Don't miss this exclusive interview with one of the most influential figures in football.Subscribe now and watch the full video episode on www.youtube.com/@UpFrontWithSimonJordan. 18+ please gamble responsibly.Warning: This episode may contain language that some viewers may find offensive.