Howie Mandel Outsmarts Simon Cowell, Secures Golden Buzzer on 'AGT'

In a heated battle on "America's Got Talent," Howie Mandel swiftly outmaneuvered Simon Cowell to award his Golden Buzzer to the captivating Japanese acrobatic act AIRFOOTWORKS.

On the high-stakes stage of "America's Got Talent," Howie Mandel and Simon Cowell engaged in a playful yet competitive battle over the coveted Golden Buzzer. As the Japanese acrobatic group AIRFOOTWORKS delivered a mesmerizing hip-hop performance, the judges were on the edge of their seats.

Cowell, eager to steal the spotlight, reached over and prematurely activated Mandel's Golden Buzzer without hesitation. A shocked Mandel, unfazed by Cowell's attempt, remained calm and composed.

Howie Mandel Outsmarts Simon Cowell, Secures Golden Buzzer on 'AGT'

"I was waiting for them to come to me. Waiting for my turn is the key word," Mandel explained to Fox News Digital. "He took my turn. Tried to take my turn. But I'm too quick. I'm very nimble… I'm aware of what's going on and I listen. So, I saved my moment for me."

Mandel's swift reflexes prevented Cowell from overshadowing his intended Golden Buzzer recipient. As the two judges rushed onto the stage, "AGT" host Terry Crews stepped in to settle the dispute.

Howie Mandel Outsmarts Simon Cowell, Secures Golden Buzzer on 'AGT'

"OK, I've got to clear this up. Howie got there first, this is Howie's Golden Buzzer," Crews declared. "Simon wants to take the credit, but Howie, this is your Golden Buzzer."

AIRFOOTWORKS, with their gravity-defying breakdancing routine, had captivated the judges and the audience alike. Their performance, accompanied by Ed Sheeran's "Celestial," showcased their athleticism, artistry, and originality.

Howie Mandel Outsmarts Simon Cowell, Secures Golden Buzzer on 'AGT'

"I love that they check every box. They're athletes, they're dancers, they're artists. They're incredibly creative… unique and original," Mandel gushed. "They were better than the first time I saw them. And the first time I saw them I already finished my two buzzers… I remember thinking, ‘Oh, I wish I had another buzzer. I'd like to give it to them.’ And tonight I had another buzzer and I gave it to them."

Despite the playful feud between Mandel and Cowell, Heidi Klum remained unfazed by their antics. "It’s like talking to kids," Klum quipped. "He is very smart. That's Simon Cowell. He's like, ‘Let me go push that Golden Buzzer’… he just does crazy things. He does things he's not allowed to do, and we love him for it… he is the boss, and so we let him."

Howie Mandel Outsmarts Simon Cowell, Secures Golden Buzzer on 'AGT'

Mandel, whose keen eye and quick thinking allowed him to secure the Golden Buzzer, was also quick to acknowledge the significance of Cowell's role. "Anything could happen during the live show. And the fact of the matter is, it's Simon's show," Mandel noted.

The live results of the "AGT" quarterfinals will be announced on tonight's episode, with 12 acts advancing to the live semifinals. The remaining 6 acts will join the 4 Live Show Golden Buzzers in the finale on September 17th. The season's champion will be crowned on September 24th.

Howie Mandel Outsmarts Simon Cowell, Secures Golden Buzzer on 'AGT'