Stephen A. Smith has been the center of controversy since last week when he spoke on the subject of domestic abuse, specifically how “provocation” supposedly plays a role.

The comments caused a media firestorm for which Smith was strongly criticized, even by Michelle Beadle, a fellow ESPN employee.

TMZ was able to catch up with Smith following his suspension and asked him what he thought of ESPN’s actions. Smith, clearly not in the best mood, said that he accepted responsibility for his words and stated that he supported ESPN’s decision to suspend him.

When he was asked if he had spoken with Michelle Beadle about her criticisms, Smith stated that he had not spoken with her but he made sure to say that Beadle is a “great person.”

Smith is suspended until next Wednesday.

[TMZ Sports]