Behind-the-scenes special at Fanatics Fest showcasing Tom Brady's $250,000 trading card deal among other viral moments.
In the heart of New York City, from June 20-22, 2025, the Javits Center became the epicentre of sports, entertainment, and culture as Fanatics Fest took centre stage. This multi-day event, spearheaded by Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, attracted over 125,000 enthusiastic fans and featured an impressive lineup of athletes and celebrities, including Tom Brady, LeBron James, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, Jay-Z, Travis Scott, John Cena, and many more.
ESPN, Fanatics, and OBB Pictures have collaborated to produce a one-hour special, "Fanatics Fest: All Access," airing on July 7 on ESPN and ESPN+. This documentary offers viewers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the event, capturing its cultural significance and the challenges faced by organisers in managing such a large and enthusiastic crowd.
One of the most anticipated moments in the special is Tom Brady's $250,000 Card Deal. During the Fanatics Games, a unique competition where 50 athletes, celebrities, and influencers competed against 50 fans for $2 million in prizes, Brady struck a significant deal with a Philadelphia teacher, Matt Dennish, involving a LeBron James rookie card. Brady, who won first place and a $1 million prize, later donated $750,000 from his winnings to the charity Clarity.
The Fanatics Games also saw highlights that will be featured in the special, as well as behind-the-scenes insights into the event's most significant moments. The documentary will follow select athletes and fans, offering a unique perspective on the event's high points.
WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella hosts "Fanatics Fest: All Access," which also features interviews with NBA All-Star Victor Wembanyama, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, and WWE champion Cody Rhodes. The special also captures unexpected moments, such as Rhea Ripley and Paul "Triple H" Levesque surprising WWE fans with their signature walkouts, and Travis Scott performing a surprise concert.
Another memorable moment is when Tom Brady meets with a Make-A-Wish recipient, a repeat of his action during the inaugural Fanatics Fest. The event also saw Joey Chestnut participating in a hot dog eating contest, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Michael D. Ratner, Founder and CEO of OBB Media, expresses excitement about "Fanatics Fest: All Access," which is executive produced by OBB's Michael D. Ratner, Scott Ratner, Kfir Goldberg, Simone Spira, Andria Parides, and directed by Manny Gutierrez. The special promises to deliver an engaging and insightful look into one of the most talked-about events of the year.
The one-hour special "Fanatics Fest: All Access" on ESPN and ESPN+ offers viewers an exclusive look at the cultural significance of Fanatics Fest, capturing the trading of a LeBron James rookie card between Tom Brady and a Philadelphia teacher during the Fanatics Games. The documentary features interviews with celebrities such as NBA All-Star Victor Wembanyama, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, WWE champion Cody Rhodes, and pop-culture icons like Travis Scott. It also highlights sports moments like Rhea Ripley and Paul "Triple H" Levesque surprising WWE fans, and entertainment courtesy of Travis Scott's surprise concert.
