Former panelist Jay Mariotti called the show out for being "too woke," but host Tony Reali has come to its defense. MORE: ESPN reportedly considered Shannon Sharpe show to replace Around The Horn Reali fired back at Mariotti's claims and said the "woke" narrative is way too overblown.

ESPN's Tony Reali hasn't tipped his hand yet as for what his next venture will be once "Around The Horn" airs its final episode May 23.

Canceled by the network, an ESPN staple ends this week. Its longtime host is still trying to understand why — and what’s next.