Metta World Peace (‘The Masked Singer’) reveals which rap song he wanted to perform as Cuddle Monster: ‘They were like, nah’ [Exclusive Video Interview]

“I had a great time,” reveals NBA champion Metta World Peace while discussing his time as Cuddle Monster on “The Masked Singer.” The athlete was eliminated on episode 7 following a “Trolls Night” performance of “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” by New Kids on the Block. “I was a little skeptical because I’m doing more business these days,” he admits. “I was able to get out of my comfort zone and go back on television and do something that’s fun. The experience was great.” Watch his exclusive video interview with Gold Derby senior Denton Davidson above.

Metta says his family inspired him to participate on the show even though he “can’t sing.” He explains, “I almost just kept it under the table. I tried to outprice myself so they could say, ‘No, we’re not going to bring you on this show.’ I tried to do everything to just get back to business and get back to work. When I hinted I had this opportunity, my family and friends were like, ‘You gotta do it!'”

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In 2006 he released a rap album titled “My World,” and reveals what song he was hoping to perform on “The Masked Singer” stage. “I actually wanted to do a Mob Deep song,” he says. “A song with Mob Deep, Nas and Wu-Tang (‘Eye For an Eye’). That was my first suggestion and I was going to see if I could get away with it, but they were like, ‘Nah. You’re not gonna get away with that song.”

Metta admits he wasn’t immediately sold on the Cuddle Monster costume, but it won him over. “It’s big and pink,” he laughs. “I’m known for being a rough and aggressive player. I said, ‘Man, my fanbase might not like this.’ But when I looked at it, I liked the chakras. I liked the message. On the other side, as a child, everybody dreams of being a cartoon. This character was incredible. When I saw the graphic images it was the first time it was every animated. It was a great message. It’s about balance. It’s about good energy. So I was over the top. I couldn’t have asked for a better outfit.”