Chad Johnson Loses Zico Deal and Gets Fired On TV – TGIF!
I think now I can safely say, for Chad Ochocinco Johnson, that it truly can’t get any worse.
Zico has dropped him from their brand, ending a million dollar relationship. The deal was shorter than his marriage; it was only announced on July 25th. That’s like getting fired before you get your first check.
Zico released a statement to ESPN.com
“The Zico brand is about supporting naturally powered athletes, We partnered with Chad Johnson because of our great respect for what he has achieved on the playing field.
However, in light of recent events involving Mr. Johnson, we have decided to terminate our relationship. The values we espouse, through our employees, our customers and our brand, are central to our mission. We have taken this proactive step to demonstrate just how important those values are.”
Although personally I have never heard of Zico until now, they make a sports drink that is a cross between coconut water and Gator-aide. They have other high profile athletes, Kevin Garnett, Bryan Clay and Bethany Hamilton on their roster as brand ambassadors so Johnson was not needed.
DOLPHINS TERMINATION AIRED ON HARD KNOCKS
Johnson’s recent termination from the Miami Dolphins was caught on camera by the HBO show “Hard Knocks”. Coach Joe Philbin was shown talking to Chad delivering the shocking news that he was being cut from the program.
“Where we are as a program, and where you are, and where we’re headed, I don’t see the mesh right now,” Philbin said on the latest episode of the show, which aired Tuesday.
“I wish it was different. I wish I could tell you something more encouraging. I think it’s just best for both of us that we part ways at this point in time.”
Johnson’s response was the best that could be said at the time. It was delivered with just the right amount of remorse and demeanor which right now is extremely important. Other NFL teams are watching closely to see if Johnson is really a risk or not, and his behavior and statements to the media in the next couple of weeks will be a good barometer.
In reply to coach Philbin’s termination, Johnson said,
“I let you down a little bit, A lot. I understand what you’re doing. You got the message across clear the first day we met. I apologize for embarrassing you, and our organization, my teammates.”
If Chad keeps a low profile, stays in the gym and keeps his ego in check he will be playing football again. America loves a good comeback story. Right now there is no other place for Chad Johnson to go but up.
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