Prominent ESPN Journalist Stephen A. Smith and Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal have shared a friendship for quite some time now. Despite being analysts on rival television networks, they hardly show any hostility towards each other. They may, however, take it upon themselves to roast each other and generate some fun. Of course, this is not only for them but for the audiences who tune in to their shows.

Shaq recently roasted Smith after some pictures of him went viral. Smith took to his show to clap back, stating that there is more to the truth than meets the eye.

Shaquille O’Neal is not impressed with Smith

Having recently been saved from getting fired, Smith took a break and headed off to Barbados. Despite being on vacation, Smith took time out of his schedule to make an important announcement. In a part of the video uploaded on Instagram, Smith addressed the already circulating rumors that NFL Legend Shannon Sharpe is set to join Smith as co-host on the “First Take”.

“I’m not going to tell you it’s true. I’m not going to tell you it’s not either,” said the 55-year-old.

He confirmed that “the honchos” are talking to Sharpe at the moment and that they are aware that Smith fully wants the former NFL player on his side.

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While many people took to the comments section to share their reactions to the news, Shaquille O’Neal took a different route. Diverting his attention to Smith’s sleeveless shirt, the former NBA player wrote “if u dont put them little arms away”.

The comment has received more than 16500 likes at the moment.

Smith reveals a hidden battle

Smith recently took to his show to address Shaq’s comment. Stating that “this man is so crazy”, the sports journalist defended his arms.

“Well hell yeah, they’re little compared to you, you damn Amazon,” exclaimed Smith.

Claiming that the other people took an unflattering picture of him, Smith started to talk about how he “worked out” and lost 20 pounds due to being on the verge of diabetes.

“I think I look better and better but they took a very unflattering picture,” said Smith. “I had to let the world know, it ain’t what you think.”

Smith took the comment in his stride, stating that even though Shaq is roasting him, his comment assures the people that the former NBA player is listening to what the sports journalist has to say.

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Smith concluded the conversation by stating that he is going to invite Shaq on his show pretty soon, having prepared a list of things that will be used to roast the big player.