Charles Barkley is an inspiration to millions of people worldwide. In a recent podcast interview, Barkley revealed a tough period in his life, highlighted by major surgery that led to a substantial weight gain of over 100 pounds. After surgery, he admitted openly that he turned to a “really beneficial” drug that helped him feel better. Because of this, Barkley overcame his obesity and is a role model for anybody facing such difficulties.

He showed that even icons have to deal with hardships and overcome them. The Philadelphia 76ers legend may not have won an NBA championship during his career, but he will forever be remembered as one of the game’s all-time greats.

The Role of ‘Mounjaro’ in the life of Charles Barkley

On the Golden State Warriors podcast ‘Dubs Talk’, the 60-year-old disclosed on his incredible weight loss journey. After undergoing hip surgery, Barkley found himself battling a significant weight gain. ?I gained like 100 pounds when I got my hips,??the Chuckster said.

He admitted that he had let laziness take over, neglecting regular workouts and fitness routines. However, with determination and resilience, he embarked on a transformative path. He shed an astonishing 65 pounds in the past year.

Barkley did not shy away from acknowledging the role of a drug named ‘Mounjaro’ in his weight loss success. He expressed his gratitude towards its impact. Mounjaro is an injectable medication that people with Type 2 diabetes use on a weekly basis to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Studies have also shown that it effectively treats obesity.

Barkley revealed, ?I?ve been taking this drug called mounjaro. It’s been really beneficial and a lot of help to me. I started taking this drug and got onto my workout regimen and it’s great.?

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Despite this, he disclosed that a shortage of the drug in the market forced him to halt its usage for nearly six weeks. ?You know there?s shortage of the drugs? I haven’t had the drugs for probably almost 6 weeks now,??the 11x All-Star disclosed.

Nevertheless, he attested to the power of his newly adopted workout regimen. He proved that with the right mindset and dedication. He continues to conquer his weight loss goals. However, there was a time when Barkley purposely tried to gain weight in order to avoid the 76ers.

A draft-day twist: Gaining weight to avoid the 76ers

Barkley may not have been the epitome of peak physical shape throughout his career, but his athletic prowess and undeniable talent on the basketball court set him apart. Despite not prioritizing having ‘abs of steel,’ Barkley’s performance on the hardwood turned heads night after night.

In a rather unconventional move, the ‘Round Mound of Rebound‘ even intentionally gained 20 pounds just before the 1984 NBA Draft. He did this just to avoid the Philadelphia 76ers drafting him. Eventually, he joined their team and had to deal with Moses Malone’s tough love and encouragement to get his body in shape.

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Despite not clinching an NBA championship, Barkley’s 16-year NBA journey was immensely successful. He earned numerous All-NBA and All-Star honors and even secured an MVP award during the era dominated by basketball legend Michael Jordan.