ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith expressed a strong lack of sympathy for disgraced former sports doctor Larry Nassar following Nassar's stabbing in a Florida prison. On his show, Smith stated he was glad Nassar survived the attack, believing that death would be too lenient a punishment for the crimes Nassar committed. Smith emphasized his desire for Nassar to endure suffering for his actions.

Smith reiterated his belief that Nassar deserves harsh repercussions, stating that suffering a similar fate to the one he inflicted on countless women would be just. He firmly asserted he feels no sympathy for Nassar.

Nassar was reportedly stabbed multiple times, suffering injuries to his neck, back, and chest, including a collapsed lung. He was hospitalized and listed in stable condition. The incident is under investigation by federal authorities. The prison where the attack took place houses over 1,200 inmates.

Nassar's crimes involved the sexual assault of athletes during his tenure at Michigan State University and USA Gymnastics. In 2019, over 150 victims, including Simone Biles, provided impact statements detailing the abuse and the failure of authorities to act on prior reports. These victims sought over $1 billion in damages from the federal government for the FBI's inaction.