NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most intimidating athletes of all time. Be it his dominating play or physical altercations with his opponents, no one wanted a piece of the Los Angeles Lakers great. Understandably, The Big Diesel is a big fan of combat sports and has shown a profound love for fighting through his Instagram stories. In yet another episode, the 4x NBA champion shared a viral video posted by a rival of Mike Tyson.

The veteran boxer who accused Tyson a few years ago shared his four favorite boxers, out of which a Mexican sensation stood as a highlight for Shaq. The former Lakers star has previously shared posts revolving around Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, etc. However, this one was a stand-out!

Who is the Mexican boxing legend that caught the eyes of Shaquille O’Neal? 

51-year-old Shannon Briggs had one of the most impactful careers in boxing. Even at the age of 48, Briggs was ready to throw hands at the deadly Mike Tyson. Months after waiting for this fight, millions of fans were let down as it got canceled. While this stands on one side, the veteran boxer recently went on to share a small video about a boxer who impressed him. 

Jorge Paez aka ‘El Maromero’ started his career in the circus. Years after entertaining people, Paez decided to make a sudden switch to boxing. While the fans were initially clueless and skeptical about him, the Mexican veteran decided to show what he was capable of. 

Using the acrobatics he learned from the circus, Paez’s smooth movement in the ring was considered a dance. With 79 impeccable wins and 52 knockouts, the Mexican sensation not only impressed the fans but also boxing veterans like Briggs and many more. 

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Briggs put Paez in the same conversation as Muhammed Ali and Sugar Ray Robinson. Briggs shared the clip with the caption, “Best ever.” Well, the Mexican legend not only caught the attention of Briggs but NBA great Shaq as well. 

The Big Aristotle shared Brigg’s video on his Instagram story. Briggs’ post garnered a lot of attention from the boxing faithful as there were mixed reactions to the clip. Could Briggs throwing Mike Tyson under the bus be a reason for the continuous slandering he receives?

Why did Mike Tyson vs Shannon Briggs get canceled?

Briggs had high hopes for his match against Tyson. However, there was no response from the former heavyweight’s side. Briggs revealed he even informed Tyson’s representatives. Months after waiting for a reply, Briggs finally stated the boxing legend ducked out, throwing him under the bus by pinning all the blame on him.

Read more: “Nobody Got a Chain on Me”: Mike Tyson Comes Clean on Why He Went Broke

He was set to return after five years and a six-month suspension. However, the 51-year-old’s much-awaited return was sadly postponed. Regardless of his criticism of Tyson, Briggs has never failed to give veteran boxers their credit when it’s due. Just like the above video. 

What are your thoughts on Jorge Paez’s boxing style? Share in the comments below.