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.

The days of Tony Reali muting Bob Ryan and Woody Paige on "Around the Horn" are sadly over. ESPN made the decision earlier this year to cancel "Around the Horn." The classic debate show has been around since Nov.

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