Shaquille O’ Neal is one of the most lovable big men to step on the basketball court. The Los Angeles Lakers Legend casts a large shadow in real life and the NBA. The legacy he’s left behind in the sport is undeniable as a four-time World Champion. Even though he’s retired from the sport, it seems he’s not done chasing titles just yet.
After conquering the NBA, O’ Neal is tempted to step into the boxing world. The 53-year-old announced that he’s accepting the Celebrity Boxing match challenge. It all went down after Charlie Mack called him out for an official fight, and O’ Neal looks to oblige him.
Why Shaq’s Latest Move Has The World Talking
Shaquille O’ Neal has always remained fearless on the court, and it seems this trait carries off of it as well. The Big Guy didn’t back down from Charlie Mack, aka Charles Alston’s public callout. Mack explained that he has had a long-standing beef with O’Neal and that it’s time to settle their differences in the ring.
The Philadelphia comedy icon explained an event that occurred between him and the NBA Hall of Famer years ago in Dallas. He detailed that O’Neal tried to cut in front of the line during an autograph signing. Alston revealed that he then chopped his foe for his actions.
Mack would taunt the 7’1″ NBA icon by saying he’s going to leave him “Sha-knocked out.” While we’re sure that probably didn’t hurt Shaq much, he didn’t waste much time responding to the challenge. He accepted Mack’s challenge, saying, “I accept, let’s do it.”
However, Shaq wasn’t done there and took to his Instagram to officially respond. The four-time World Champion stated that Mack should name the time and place, and he’d be there. He further added, “Diesel don’t run from nobody. … Better check my police record, Charlie Mack.” This statement shows that O’Neal isn’t afraid of any challenge, even at his age.
What A Celebrity Boxing Match Could Mean For Shaq’s Legacy
Shaquille O’Neal enjoys participating in various activities for the sake of entertainment. We’ve seen the NBA Hall of Famer pursue almost every type of side quest since retiring. Whether it’s being an analyst, making music, stepping into a wrestling ring, or making cameos on TV.
Shaq’s legacy goes beyond the basketball court. He loves doing business and owns quite a few himself. So, we’re fairly sure that this boxing deal between him and Mack is strictly business. However, it doesn’t mean that O’Neal won’t give it his all once he steps into a boxing ring.
It’s also not the first time that the 7’1″ titan will step inside the boxing ring. Shaq has fought against Oscar De La Hoya in 2009 and against Shane Mosley in 2010, in exhibition matches. Even though he didn’t come out on top, Shaq has amassed enough experience to take on anyone.
Regardless of whether the fight truly happens or not, Shaq has already cemented himself as one of the best big men in entertainment. However, the fans are sure that he has the power to knock his opponent’s lights out if the stage is set.
Published: Aug 19, 2025 05:41 pm