Unveiling Akbar Gbajabiamila’s Jaw-Dropping Journey: From NFL Stardom to Hollywood Glitz – You Won’t Believe What He’s Up to Now!
This article will provide a comprehensive look at Akbar’s background, his journey to the NFL, his time playing professional football, and his current career in broadcasting and speaking.
We’ll explore his early life and upbringing, how he rose to fame as a football player, his noteworthy accomplishments on the field, and what he’s up to today as a television personality and inspirational figure.
You’ll also get a glimpse into Akbar’s personal life, relationships, interests off the field, and more.
By the end, you’ll have a complete picture of this talented athlete and entertainer.
So whether you’re a football fan wanting to know Akbar’s stats or just curious about his inspiring story, this profile covers it all.
Let’s get started!
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Akbar Gbajabiamila |
| Occupation | Former NFL player, TV host |
| Birthday | May 6, 1979 |
| Birth Year | 1979 |
| Birth Sign | Taurus |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California |
| Hometown | Los Angeles, California |
| Birth Country | United States |
| First Name | Akbar |
| Last Name | Gbajabiamila |
| Net Worth | $7 million |
| Father | Mustapha Gbajabiamila |
| Mother | Bolatito Gbajabiamila |
| Spouse | Chrystal Gbaja-Biamila(Gbajabiamila) |
| Children(s) | Elijah, Saheedat, Nasir, Naomi |
| Siblings | Kabeer Gbajabiamila |
| Height | 6’5 feet |
| Weight | 285 lbs |
| @akbargbaja | |
| @AkbarGbaja | |
| @akbar_gbaja | |
| YouTube | Akbar Gbajabiamila |
| Website | iamakbar.com |
| ESPN stats | Akbar Gbaja-Biamila Career Stats – NFL – ESPN |
Early Life and Background
Akbar Gbajabiamila was born on May 6th, 1979 in South Central Los Angeles, California.
His parents were immigrants from Nigeria who settled in LA to provide more opportunities for their five children.
Akbar grew up in a rough neighborhood known for poverty, violence and gang activity.
But his parents, Mustapha and Bolatito, worked tirelessly to shelter their kids from negative influences.
His father drove a taxi while his mother worked at a clothing factory.
Though they struggled financially, the Gbajabiamila home was full of love, discipline and faith.
From a young age, Akbar stood out for his size. By 10 years old, he was already over 6 feet tall! This growth spurt continued through high school, eventually leading the athletic teen to stand at a towering 6 feet, 5 inches.
He also showed early talent in sports – playing basketball, track and football for his high school Crenshaw High.
But Akbar has often shared how he struggled academically due to a severe case of dyslexia that challenged his learning. With his parents’ encouragement, he pushed himself to overcome his struggles.
After finishing high school, Akbar was determined to be the first in his family to attend college. He worked hard to raise his grades and SAT scores.
His skills on the football field helped him secure an athletic scholarship to the University of California, Berkeley in 1997.
There, Akbar continued to excel as a student-athlete. Keep reading to learn how his college football career launched him into the NFL!
In this video, Akbar Gbajabiamila’s dad taught him to embrace his Nigerian last name with pride, advising him to make others say it, turning teasing into empowerment. This lesson empowered Akbar academically and athletically, shaping his confidence and self-perception.
Football Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Arriving at UC Berkeley, Akbar Gbajabiamila joined the Golden Bears football team.
He spent his freshman season as a redshirt, practicing with the team and honing his skills.
By sophomore year, the coaching staff recognized Akbar’s talent and made him a starter at defensive end.
Standing at 6 feet, 5 inches and weighing around 285 pounds, Akbar had the physicality to overpower opponents and make game-changing plays.
In his junior season, he delivered a standout performance. Akbar led the team with 10.5 sacks and 19 tackles for loss, showcasing his speed and power on the defensive line.
His dominance earned him All-Pac-10 First Team honors.
Entering his senior season in 2000, expectations were high for Akbar. He didn’t disappoint! Akbar led the Pac-10 conference with an incredible 17.5 sacks.
He also won the Morris Trophy as the conference’s best defensive lineman. By season’s end, Akbar broke the Golden Bears’ all-time career sack record with 27.5 sacks. His monster senior year placed him as a top NFL draft prospect.
The following spring, Akbar was selected in the 5th round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers.
Transitioning to the pro game, he spent his first season as a reserve getting accustomed to the higher speed and physicality. In 2002, Akbar earned a starting defensive end spot and recorded 36 tackles and 4 sacks.
His best season came in 2003 when he tallied 5 sacks and 44 tackles while starting all 16 regular season games.
Akbar spent a total of four seasons with the Packers, appearing in 56 games. Before the 2005 season, he signed as a free agent with the San Diego Chargers.
After just seven games, a knee injury ended his season and unfortunately Akbar’s professional football career. Though his NFL tenure was short, he left having established himself as a hard-working, blue collar player.
Age, Physical Appearance and NFL Stats
Currently 44 years old, Akbar Gbajabiamila was born on May 6, 1979. During his NFL playing days, he stood at 6 feet, 5 inches tall and weighed around 268 pounds. He maintained an athletic, muscular build required for the intense physicality of professional football.
Here’s a quick look at Akbar Gbajabiamila’s NFL stats over his 4-year career:
- 56 games played
- 132 total tackles
- 13.5 sacks
- 1 interception
- 3 forced fumbles
- 1 touchdown
Though injuries cut his time in the NFL short, Akbar maximized his talents during his brief but successful pro run.
He earned respect as a tenacious, big-bodied defensive end able to pressure quarterbacks and stop the run. For a 5th round pick, he exceeded expectations through relentless effort.
Life After Football and Broadcasting Career
When Akbar Gbajabiamila’s playing days ended, he searched for a new purpose. He took time to reflect on what was most important to him.
Akbar realized he wanted to inspire and empower people through motivational speaking. But breaking into public speaking proved challenging.
In 2008, he got his first television opportunity hosting the sports talk show NFL Stars: The Boys in the Bando on the Black Entertainment Network.
This opened the door for Akbar to draw upon his football knowledge while engaging audiences in front of the camera.
The following year, Akbar joined the team on NBC’s obstacle course competition show American Ninja Warrior.
He became a sideline reporter and eventually a color commentator. Since 2013, Akbar has been one of the mainstays providing commentary and analysis.
Fans love his infectious energy and passion on the show.
Expanding his hosting resume, Akbar served as co-host on American Ninja Warrior’s spin-off program Team Ninja Warrior from 2016 to 2017.
He also began making guest appearances on popular shows like The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Entertainment Tonight.
Leveraging his knack for connecting with people, Akbar landed the role of host on the Game Show Network’s Winsanity in 2016.
His quick wit, fun banter with contestants, and dynamic personality made him perfect for the zany, high-energy game show.
After years of gradually building his broadcasting career, Akbar achieved a dream opportunity. In 2021, he was named as a daily co-host of CBS’ Emmy Award-winning daytime talk show The Talk.
He brought a fresh male perspective along with insights from his athletic background. However, Akbar announced his departure after just one season to focus more on passions like motivational speaking.
Overall, through hard work and persistence, Akbar successfully transitioned from football star to charismatic television host.
He discovered a new way to engage audiences while staying true to his mission to inspire people.
Personal Life and Relationships
Balancing the demands of professional football and now a hectic broadcasting career, Akbar Gbajabiamila places high value on spending time with family.
While the couple has kept much of their marriage private, their romance reportedly started on the football field, according to The Sun.
The two are said to have met when Chrystal Gbaja-Biamila attended an Oakland Raiders game in 2004, which was the first NFL team Akbar played for in his football career.
After connecting, Akbar Gbajabiamila and Chrystal Gbaja-Biamilagot married in 2005. While details about their relationship are far and few, the TV personality doesn’t pass up opportunities to celebrate his partner of about 17 years.
Though the Gbajabiamilas tend to keep their personal life out of the spotlight, Akbar expresses his love and admiration for Chrystal Gbaja-Biamila through affectionate messages on social media and acknowledging her on special occasions.
Their long-lasting marriage is a testament to the strong foundation they have built together.
He is also a devoted son and brother who remains close to his parents and siblings.
In 2003, Akbar faced devastating loss when his brother Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, an NFL linebacker, nearly died from complications during arm surgery.
Thankfully Kabeer recovered after intensive care. For the tightknit Gbajabiamila clan, the difficult experience reinforced Akbar’s appreciation for his family.
Today, Akbar strives to be present as a husband and father even with his busy schedule. The family lives together in Los Angeles, Akbar’s lifelong home.
He relishes opportunities to give back to the LA community that shaped him.
Interests, Hobbies and Fun Facts
Outside of work, Akbar Gbajabiamila enjoys activities that keep him active while relieving stress.
He’s an avid basketball player who never lost his love for hoops after starring as a high schooler. Akbar also stays fit through weightlifting and cardio.
As you’d expect from the former pro athlete, health and fitness remain priorities.
Travel is another passion for Akbar. He, his wife and kids enjoy taking trips together during rare breaks from work.
Some favorite destinations have included Hawaii, Jamaica and Europe. Akbar also travels often for speaking engagements and hosting appearances.
Some other fun facts about Akbar:
- Huge comic book fan, especially of Marvel
- Favorite NFL team is, unsurprisingly, the Green Bay Packers
- Loves listening to reggae music
- Favorite meal is oxtails with rice and peas
- Participates annually in “Akbar’s Aces”, a charity bowling event supporting youth organizations
Motivational Speaking and Inspiring Others
While Akbar Gbajabiamila loved his football career, he has shared that public speaking always called out to him.
After retirement, Akbar began actively pursuing opportunities to speak on topics like leadership, teamwork, overcoming adversity and achieving dreams.
He often shares his own story growing up in a tough LA neighborhood and succeeding through self-belief and determination.
Akbar works extensively with high school and college students to inspire the next generation. His talks stress themes like accepting personal responsibility, not giving in to outside pressures, and believing in one’s self.
In 2013, Akbar gave a popular TED Talk entitled “ReDefine Your Playbook” where he opened up about his struggles with dyslexia.
He encourages audiences to see setbacks as chances to write a new personal playbook rather than be defined by limitations.
Akbar also speaks about topics like organizational leadership and team building. He draws from lessons learned as an athlete on addressing conflict, supporting others, and working as a cohesive unit.
Companies like Coca Cola, Starbucks, and Disney have brought in Akbar to inspire employees.
Speaking allows Akbar to positively impact others just like people did for him growing up. He aims to pass on the wisdom that helped him achieve success. Even with a bustling TV career, speaking remains Akbar’s true passion.
Legacy and Impact
When Akbar Gbajabiamila reflects on his unlikely journey, he hopes his story resonates as an inspiration.
Rather than becoming another young athlete whose career was cut short, he found a new purpose through broadcasting and speaking.
By openly sharing his struggles and triumphs, Akbar empowers others facing challenges to write their own unique story.
His willingness to work hard and pivot during difficult times serves as a blueprint for following one’s dreams.
As a football pioneer, Akbar also takes pride in the doors he opened for other kids from disadvantaged areas with NFL aspirations.
And as one of the few Nigerian-Americans in the league during his era, he paved the way for greater diversity in pro sports.
While Akbar accomplished plenty over a 4-year NFL career, his greater impact now comes from using that platform to uplift others.
His legacy lives on through the lives he touches spreading positivity. In a world often lacking hope, Akbar Gbajabiamila lights the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
To wrap up this profile of Akbar Gbajabiamila, let’s run through some common FAQs:
What position did Akbar Gbajabiamila play?
He played defensive end primarily in the NFL but also some defensive tackle.
How do you pronounce Akbar’s last name?
It’s pronounced Bah-jah-bee-ah-muh-luh.
What college did Akbar attend?
He attended the University of California, Berkeley where he played football for the Golden Bears.
Is Akbar related to Kabeer Gbajabiamila?
Yes, Kabeer is Akbar’s younger brother. Both played in the NFL.
What TV shows has Akbar hosted?
Some of his biggest hosting gigs include American Ninja Warrior, Winsanity, and The Talk.
Is Akbar married?
Yes, he has been married to his wife Chrystal Gbaja-Biamila(Gbajabiamila) since 2005.
What is Akbar Gbajabiamila’s wife’s ethnicity?
Akbar Gbajabiamila’s wife Chrystal Gbaja-Biamila appears to be of African American ethnicity, with ancestral roots likely tracing back to Africa.
Why did Akbar retire from the NFL?
Injuries, especially a severe knee injury, cut his professional football career short.
What is Akbar Gbajabiamila’s net worth?
According to CNBC, Akbar Gbajabiamila’s net worth is approximately $7 million.
What is Akbar up to now?
He continues working in broadcasting while focusing more on motivational speaking.
Is Akbar Gbajabiamila’s wife white?
No, Akbar Gbajabiamila’s wife Chrystal Gbaja-Biamila is African American.
Who is Akbar Gbajabiamila’s wife?
Akbar Gbajabiamila’s wife is Chrystal Gbajabiamila. They married in 2005.
How old is Akbar Gbajabiamila?
Akbar Gbajabiamila is 44 years old. He was born on May 6, 1979.
How tall is Akbar Gbajabiamila?
Akbar Gbajabiamila is 6’5″ tall.
Who is Akbar Gbajabiamila married to?
Akbar Gbajabiamila is married to Chrystal Gbajabiamila. They wed in 2005.
How do you pronounce Akbar Gbajabiamila?
Akbar Gbajabiamila, pronounced “ack-bar bah-jah-bee-ah-muh-luh”.
How much is Akbar Gbajabiamila worth?
Akbar Gbajabiamila’s net worth is estimated at around $7 million.
Where is Akbar Gbajabiamila from?
Akbar Gbajabiamila is from Los Angeles, California.
Who is Akbar Gbajabiamila?
Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player turned TV host, best known for American Ninja Warrior.
Thanks for reading this in-depth profile of Akbar Gbajabiamila!
Whether you learned something new about his amazing story or are just an even bigger fan now, I hope this piece provided a comprehensive look at this talented athlete, broadcaster and speaker.