Akbar Gbaja-Biamila Biography

Akbar Gbaja-Biamila is a television personality, former NFL player, author, and philanthropist whose career spans professional sports, broadcasting, and community engagement. Gbaja-Biamila played five years in the NFL as a linebacker and defensive end with the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, and Miami Dolphins. He went undrafted in the NFL draft and later signed with the Oakland Raiders as a free agent. During his playing career, Gbaja-Biamila participated in the NFL's Broadcast Boot Camp, a program designed to prepare athletes for careers in broadcasting and journalism. He played college football at San Diego State University, graduating with a degree in communications and new media studies, and completed a certified entrepreneurship program at the Wharton School of Business.

After retiring from professional football, Gbaja-Biamila transitioned into broadcasting, serving as a fantasy football expert and analyst for NFL Network on programs such as "NFL Fantasy Live." His television profile expanded when he became a color commentator alongside Matt Iseman for "American Ninja Warrior," which has aired on G4, Esquire Network, and NBC. Gbaja-Biamila is the co-host of NBC's Emmy-nominated obstacle course competition series "American Ninja Warrior." He also co-hosts "Team Ninja Warrior" on Esquire Network and "American Ninja Warrior Junior" on Universal Kids. Gbaja-Biamila's presence on "American Ninja Warrior" has been recognized in popular culture, including a parody on Saturday Night Live by Drake.

Gbaja-Biamila's media work extends to serving as an analyst for NFL Network, co-hosting the morning show "Good Morning Football" and its syndicated extension "Good Morning Football: Overtime." He was also a co-host of "The Talk" on CBS. Gbaja-Biamila is a published author with the book "Everyone Can Be a Ninja: Find Your Inner Warrior and Achieve Your Dreams," and served as executive producer for the film "Sylvie's Love." He has appeared on TODAY, Rachael Ray, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, and Extra!.

In addition to his media and sports career, Gbaja-Biamila is active in philanthropy. He founded Rush The Passer, a year-round athletic, academic, and life skills program for youth in Southern California. After his father was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, Gbaja-Biamila became involved with several charitable organizations, including serving on the board of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which supports Parkinson's research. He is also a board member for the Asomugha Foundation, which focuses on educational opportunities. Gbaja-Biamila's work in sports broadcasting, NFL analysis, and community service highlights his commitment to both media and philanthropy.

BOOK Akbar Gbaja-Biamila

Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 06/01/2026.

Akbar Gbaja-Biamila Speaking Topics

  • Everyone Can Be a Ninja: Overcoming Adversity to be the Best Version of Yourself

    Akbar draws from his upbringing in Crenshaw to inspire others to find their own greatness. He is truly the advocate for the Underdog’s Path to Success and loves to inspire others to overcome their own personal obstacles and be the best versions of themselves. Akbar also pulls from personal stories from his new book, Everyone Can Be a Ninja.

Akbar Gbaja-Biamila Videos

From an NFL Player to Media Standout - Akbar Gbaja-biamila ...

From an NFL Player to Media Standout - Akbar Gbaja-biamila ...

Akbar is the host of NBC's four time Emmy nominated series American Ninja Warrior, Universal Kid's spin off show, American Ninja Warrior Jr.

Frank Buckley Interviews: Akbar Gbajabiamila

Frank Buckley Interviews: Akbar Gbajabiamila

Akbar Gbaja-Biamila on American Ninja Warrior Emmy Nomination

Akbar Gbaja-Biamila on American Ninja Warrior Emmy Nomination

Akbar speaks with the KTLA 5 team about American Ninja Warrior's Emmy Nomination.

  • How do I book Akbar Gbaja-Biamila to speak at my event?

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    Speaking fees for Akbar Gbaja-Biamila, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Akbar Gbaja-Biamila are $30,000 - $50,000 for live events and $10,000 - $20,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Akbar Gbaja-Biamila, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does Akbar Gbaja-Biamila speak about?

  • Where does Akbar Gbaja-Biamila travel from?

    Akbar Gbaja-Biamila generally travels from Redondo Beach, CA, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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Akbar Gbaja-Biamila is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Everyone Can Be a Ninja: Overcoming Adversity to be the Best Version of Yourself. The estimated speaking fee range to book Akbar Gbaja-Biamila for your event is $30,000 - $50,000. Akbar Gbaja-Biamila generally travels from Redondo Beach, CA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Inky Johnson, Herman "Herm" Edwards, Mike Singletary, Mike Eruzione and Anthony Trucks. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Akbar Gbaja-Biamila for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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