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Shaquille O’Neal was a super freak during his time in the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers legend had a lethal combination of strength and size. Dominating his way to become one of the greatest of all time, the Big Diesel was huge. The 7-foot giant often overwhelmed opponents with his weight.

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The four-time champion entered the league at a staggering 301 pounds. In an era that was commanded by big men, Shaq’s size became his most recognizable trait. After retiring, the Big Diesel’s physical activity has surely decreased. However, to maintain the massive frame, Shaq likely needs to have a lot of food.

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Likewise, during a recent dinner with rugby star, Brandon Smith, large amounts of food came in front of Shaq. However, growing up in a military household, the Hall of Famer values respect. And Shaq was furious when his food was the first to come out.

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Shaquille O’Neal will not allow disrespect on the table

Throughout his NBA career, Shaq was an intimidating man. Humiliating his opponents, the legendary center was fueled by competitive fire. But outside the hardwood, Shaq is a different man. And Smith got front row seats to his mannerisms. Detailing his experience with the Los Angeles Lakers great, Smith spoke about his immediate reaction to being the only guy on the table with food in front of him.

READ MORE – Shaquille O’Neal Showcases Insane Generosity With Bizarre Shopping Policy

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Brandon Smith said, “He is pretty respectful as well. They brought his food out well before ours. He’s just like yelled at the security guy and he’s like, ‘Get everybody’s food now’. They like quickly ran out the back and they put everyone’s food. He didn’t eat till we started eating. So, he’s one of those.”

Despite having the fame, Shaq has arguably never lost his sense of respect. However, while he has a clear vision in terms of respect, the Big Diesel’s food journey has been wild.

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There was a time Shaquille O’Neal clocked in at 380 pounds. But he always got back into shape. However, 2020 was a tough year for the four-time champion. Shaq had to go through the loss of his younger sister as well as Kobe Bryant. Likewise, the pain made him lose motivation to work out. He started putting on the pounds once again.

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However, the Big Diesel wasn’t going to stay defeated for long. After watching an Instagram video, Shaq decided to change his life back around. At first, sandwiches were a big part of his diet. However, now, Shaq is entirely off the bread.

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Focusing on clean and cutting food, he has been on an incredible fitness journey. And it doesn’t look like Shaq is going to stop being in shape this time around.

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Anuj Talwalkar

4,479 Articles

Anuj Talwalkar is a senior NBA Newsbreak specialist at EssentiallySports, trusted for his real-time coverage and fast, accurate updates on league developments. With five NBA seasons and two Olympics coverages under his belt, Anuj stands out as the go-to reporter for the NBA Matchday Newsdesk. As part of the EssentiallySports Journalistic Excellence Program, he continuously refines his hard reporting with grounded storytelling shaped by fan culture and court-level insights. An economics graduate and lifelong OKC fan since the Supersonics era, Anuj combines analytical thinking and a genuine passion for basketball. He’s recognized for both his live news coverage and feature writing, with aspirations to someday interview Russell Westbrook. Anuj’s reporting is marked by its reliability, depth, and strong connection to the pulse of the NBA.

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