With a towering 7’1’ figure packing 301 lbs of mass and muscle, Shaquille O’Neal entered the league in dominating shape. He was athletic, quick, and, most of all, terrifying for anybody who dared to go in the paint. Though he’s retired now, not much has changed. Despite his funny antics and personality, Shaq remains one of the most intimidating figures in NBA history. O’Neal’s size and strength are not lost on anybody, least of all Charles Barkley, who still remembers what a punch the ‘Big Diesel’ can pack.

At his peak, the 4x NBA champion was the best player in the league. There was no one who could stop the big man from imposing his will on any game. Despite being one of the worst free throw shooters ever, O’Neal still managed to average monster numbers. No wonder people were intimidated by him!

The Big Diesel made Charles Barkley run for his life On live TV

In 2011, Shaq hung up his jersey and put on a suit to join Ernie Johnson, Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith, and Charles Barkley on TNT’s Inside the NBA. The group instantly became famous for their chemistry, comedy, and playfulness, often reminding fans of their own friends and siblings. Recently, O’Neal posted a classic moment from the crew’s history on his Instagram story for all 31 million of his followers to see.

In the video, Kenny Smith was performing a typical drive to the basket when Shaq decides to shove him. Charles Barkley immediately swings at Shaq, saying “Don’t touch Kenny.” It was a rather lovely moment with Barkley protecting his smaller colleague. However, the ‘Big Diesel’ was having none of it.

Trending

Big Setback for Shaq, as $155 Billion Company Eyes Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith Post-TNT Era

May 17, 2024 10:54 PM EDT

“Could Hear Jeanie Buss & Rob Pelinka Chuckling”: LeBron James Declared to Be Manipulating NBA World With Obvious Bluff

May 17, 2024 12:58 PM EDT

“Jordan Slipping Him Cash”: Fans Join In as Magic Johnson Slams Stephen A. Smith for Leaving Isiah Thomas Out of His List

May 18, 2024 03:30 PM EDT

Countdown Starts for Charles Barkley and TNT Crew as Ernie Johnson Makes Heartfelt Confession Before Parting

May 16, 2024 06:00 AM EDT

Angel Reese Rejuvenates Allen Iverson’s Legacy Through Ties With $2.5 Billion Worth Brand

May 18, 2024 03:28 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

As soon as the punch landed, fans could see Chuck run for his life as the backboard-breaking Shaq chased after him. The moment was pure comedy, but one can imagine that Barkley was having flashbacks to the first time the duo fought on live television.

The date was November 10, 1999. Barkley’s Rockets were hosting Shaq’s Lakers in Houston. In the second quarter, down by 4, Chuck received the ball in the paint and got hacked by Shaq, drawing a foul. However, Barkley got instigated and chucked the ball at O’Neal’s head. The result? A left-handed hook from the Big Diesel delivered straight to Barkley’s dome.

30 Years After Shocking Shaquille O’Neal in Japan, Rapper Who ‘Shook’ America Seen in Rare Photo With NBA Legend

The fans chanted Barkley’s name as both big men were ejected from the game. The ejection was not Shaq’s first, and it was hardly his only iconic moment.

The unique achievements of Shaquille O’Neal 

The Big Diesel accomplished a lot during his career, winning 4 championships, 3 Finals MVPs, and one regular season MVP. But he really cemented his legacy as the most dominant big of all time by destroying two entire backboards in just his rookie season. It was so unprecedented that the NBA had to change its rules and operations. The basket was reinforced so it could survive against the force of nature that was Shaquille O’Neal.

WATCH THIS STORY: “Papa, I Miss You”: Shaquille O’Neal’s Daughter Sad on Father’s Day Due to Major Missing

Despite being inactive as a player for over a decade, there is no doubt that any man, even 6’6’’, 252lb big Charles Barkley, would not want to fight the Big Diesel.

What are your thoughts on the hilarious moment? Let us know in the comments.