Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila, the dynamic duo behind the hit NBC reality competition franchise American Ninja Warrior, have been at the forefront of the show's evolution for the past 14 years. In this exclusive interview, they delve into the latest season, offering insights and commentary that only they can provide. With a focus on the show's format, the athletes, and the community it fosters, Iseman and Gbajabiamila share their thoughts on the changes viewers can expect, the athletes to watch, and the deeper implications of the show's evolution.
One of the most notable changes in Season 18 is the division of competitions into west, central, and east regions, with the introduction of the triple header course in the regional finals. This new format, according to Iseman, is "the most electric new edition of the show we’ve had in a long time." Gbajabiamila adds, "The sport is so much more fast paced now." This evolution reflects the show's constant push to test the limits of its athletes and the sport itself.
The interview also touches on the show's impact on the athletes' lives. Iseman reflects on watching the child athletes he first met on American Ninja Warrior Jr. grow into fierce competitors on the main show. "This is one of those sports that is not just about your ability, but your ability to put the work in day in and day out, to learn from failure, and continue to evolve," he says. Gbajabiamila agrees, emphasizing the importance of the community and the relationships formed through the sport.
When asked about the show's future, Iseman and Gbajabiamila hint at the possibility of Mount Midoriyama making a comeback, albeit in a different form. "We’re always talking about how to evolve the show, and sometimes you go back to go forward," Iseman explains. This suggests that the show is open to revisiting its past while continuing to innovate.
The interview also includes predictions about the fastest ninjas, with Gbajabiamila claiming to be better at picking the fastest competitors. "I’m better at picking. We’re in Vegas. All the little companies like FanDuel, they’re calling me and saying, hey, can you help us? Like, no, sorry, I can do this only for Ninja," he jokes. Iseman adds, "He’s the soothsayer, the oracle."
The conversation then shifts to the athletes to watch, with Gbajabiamila highlighting Jessie Graff's unique style and the Mylers' YouTube empire. "These ninjas got some little quirky things that they do, but it works. They’re so athletic," he says. Iseman, in turn, praises the Mylers' willingness to risk their athletic identity, drawing a parallel to Stephen Amell's appearance on the show.
The interview also touches on the personal growth of the ninjas, with Gbajabiamila reflecting on watching his own children grow up. "It does make me feel old, but it’s so cool that we get to grow right alongside them. We feel like father figures," he says. Iseman adds, "It was really cool to see them go from ANW Jr. to the big show."
In the end, Iseman and Gbajabiamila tease the upcoming season, highlighting the fast-paced head-to-head racing and the unexpected outcomes. "Despite the fact that we’re making predictions, we just couldn’t predict how some of these races turned out," Iseman says. Gbajabiamila adds, "The action speaks for itself."
As the show continues to evolve, Iseman and Gbajabiamila remain committed to fostering a community that goes beyond the obstacles and into the lives of the athletes. "I think we’ve had more marriages than that other dating show has," Iseman jokes, "The one with roses, but I’m not going to give them any free advertising. We’ve had quite a few marriages." Gbajabiamila adds, "Probably more babies too!"
American Ninja Warrior Season 18 airs Monday nights at 8/7c on NBC, offering a thrilling and evolving experience that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
