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Stephen A. Smith’s voice has stood out amongst the crowd in the world of sports media. The landscape of discourse in the American sports world has seen a drastic change with the advent of emerging voices who emphasize their personal views. Smith has often been at the epicenter of controversy because of his opinions. However, the mark that he’s left as an analyst stands out.

While former players offer experienced views and perspectives, the journalistic experience that Smith brings to the table has propelled him to the forefront of key conversations. However, not everyone is in agreement with the analyst’s trajectory. But Smith doesn’t shy away from standing his ground, even if it means pulling away from vacation.

Stephen A. Smith responded to the backlash that came his way

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Speaking on his ‘South Beach Sessions’ show, sportswriter Dan Le Batard critiqued Stephen A. Smith’s role in the rise of ‘imitators’ in the sports media world. Le Batard’s argument pointed at Smith and Skip Bayless, indicating that they “birthed” imitators who don’t value journalistic ethics and turn everything into an argument. He said, “I hate what you two [Bayless and Smith] have done to sports television.” Smith is known for his argumentative style of conveying his thoughts. However, he has a journalistic background to back his ‘well-informed’ perspectives.

Read More: “The Simple Answer”: Stephen A. Smith Laughs Off Cowboys Chances For Next Season Amid ‘Weak Link’ Debate

The analyst retorted by saying, “You can say that all you want to, I would say who the hell are you!” Smith said. “To sit up there and say, me and him. What about you? Where the hell were you? Living under a rock? Teaching at Miami U? You were a part of it too! You ain’t innocent!” He also added, “How are we responsible for that?” Fans propelled discourse surrounding this heated conversation, calling Smith’s career into question. In response to this, the analyst stepped away from his vacation to address the heat. Tagging Le Batard’s Twitter account, he said,

Stephen A. Smith may be on a rampage to emphasize who he is and what he stands for in the sports media world. However, a majority of fans agreed with Le Batard. Here’s a look at what they had to say.

Fans propelled discourse concerning Smith and the dwindling state of affairs in sports media

Dan Le Batard is not the only one who believes that the sports media world has taken a turn for the worse. One fan elaborated on the issue by saying

Another user accused the analyst by stating

This user had strong opinions, calling commentators “mean girls”

Other fans pointed out-

However, some fans stood by Smith

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While this may be a topic of contention, there’s one fact that cannot be negated. Whether it has made a positive or negative impact, Smith’s entry into the sports media world has left its mark and changed the course of action. What are your thoughts on the issue? Let us know in the comments section!

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