Broadcasting giant ESPN has been laying off thousands of its employees over the past few months. Eminent names like John Dahl, who produced ‘The Last Dance’, have been laid off, which naturally has triggered its old employees. Amidst this wave of recession and laying off, ESPN has hired former NFL punter Pat McAfee. He is known for ‘The Pat McAfee show’ on FanDuel and is set to bring it to ESPN in the coming days. While he is facing the flak, NBA legend Charles Barkley came to his rescue.

Barkley made an appearance on the latest episode of McAfee’s podcast. While congratulating the NFL veteran for his new venture in life, the 1993 NBA MVP had a 7-word message for the haters.

Charles Barkley comes to the rescue of an under-fire podcaster

ESPN’s first wave of layoffs started in April this year. Eminent names like John Dahl, Mike Soltys, and Nate Silver were relieved of their duties, which triggered the employees.

READ MORE: “You Can’t Act like a Damn Idiot”: After Police Checked Ja Morant’s ‘Wellness’, Charles Barkley Calls Out $80 Million Worth NBA Star on Pat McAfee Show

Amidst all such issues within the company, they have hired Pat McAfee for a huge deal. ESPN offers him an eight-figure salary which has names like Stephen A. Smith frustrated.

This comes at a time when ESPN has laid off thousands of employees and cut around $5.5 billion in costs. While McAfee is facing the flak of the media world, Charles Barkley has his back.

The Phoenix Suns legend said, “You know how much of a big fan I am of yours. I’m happy for your success, and aye listen. I was watching you last week and people giving you a hard time for taking your new deal. Tell them to shut the f**k up!”

Interestingly, he also mentioned that the two are good friends and they text each other often. While Barkley is a huge fan of McAfee, the same can be said otherwise. McAfee mentioned that he has spent a lot of time watching Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, and the rest of the crew this year because he has to stay up late owing to father duties.

Barkley faced a similar situation to McAfee

Similar to Pat McAfee, Charles Barkley faced the wrath of the media and the fans last year. There were rumors which suggested that Barkley will be leaving ‘Inside the NBA’ for a huge golf contract.

Liv Golf, a controversial golf tournament in Saudi Arabia, was close to hiring Barkley’s services in a massive deal. Despite all rumors and speculations, the Round Mound of Rebound turned down the offer. Interestingly, he revealed that he wished to stay with ‘Inside the NBA’ and that he would retire after his contract ends in 2024.

WATCH THIS STORY: Funniest Jobs Ever Fans Burst Out in Laughter as the Crew Pranks Shaquille O’Neal Leaving Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith in Splits

What are your thoughts on the Pat McAfee controversy? Let us know in the comments below.