When a player performs well, they often end up creating an identity for themselves. Sometimes, however, an identity can get lost–or stolen. During a recent podcast appearance, NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal shed light on the same, sharing examples with the listeners.

To those unaware, O’Neal’s nickname is thanks to another player.

However, O’Neal did not fail to mention Dwight Howard. LeBron James’ teammate, has previously been targeted for trying to steal Shaq’s identity.

Did Dwight Howard really try stealing Shaquill O’Neal’s identity?

While Howard–who is currently playing with the LA Lakers and LeBron James – was not the focus of the conversation, the plug-in by Shaq was not a surprise. The four-time NBA Champion and Howard have previously commented on this, lots of debate generating about the nickname ‘Superman.’

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O’Neal was recently on The Big Podcast, where he spoke of North Carolina State player Charles Shackleford, whose identity he stole. People had trouble pronouncing his name, so O’Neal ended up stealing someone else’s identity. “He was tall like me, played center like me. He had knee pads”. 

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In passing, O’Neal mentioned Howard. “Similar to what Dwight Howard tried to do to me. But I took this guy’s whole identity,” Shaq said.

Dwight Howard vs Shaquille O’Neal: Who’s your Superman?

During his active years, Shaq ended up earning the name ‘Superman’. The retired star worked well as NBA’s big man and is known to help revolutionize the league. When Howard came in and dressed up as Superman during the 2008 Dunk Contest, the nickname shifted for some. O’Neal has often spoken about the same and has tried to claim Superman as his own.

Last year, O’Neal openly spoke about the nickname, making it clear that NBA had only one Superman – and that was him.

The apparent animosity, however, dates back to 2016. O’Neal has previously shared photos of Howard being posterized, which seemed like a clear representation of how Shaq felt.

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Having said that, O’Neal is currently working as an NBA analyst and host. Howard, on his end, is still active. He is currently with the Lakers, who are hoping to make a comeback next year after an early elimination.