“ I got hands. I used to beat up and get beat up, so I got hands.” With that declaration, Shaquille O’Neal might fight Rob Gronkowski very soon. So, he issued the 4× Super Bowl champion an intriguing challenge during the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight. However, that’s not the only thing that the Lakers legend is interested in when it comes to in-ring action. The other interest is because of the 29-year-old sensation from the Bare Knuckle Fight Championship.

Howard HD Davis shared an Instagram post in collaboration with Shaquille O’Neal. “Every fan that approached me wished I was on last nights fight card, it really means a lot to hear from the fans I fight for I am honored. Everyone that believes in me, supports me and has been with me through this journey is literally the fuel to my 🔥 among other things.”

During the BKFC on DAZN 3, Davis was in attendance and shared snaps of him meeting fans. He was not part of the event because of an injury. But he met with fans with a blue cast on the left hand, which did not hinder the spirit of returning to fight.

He ended the caption with a promise to his fans, “but know this family the next time I fight at the @hardrockholly or even if it’s around the world, I am looking to make all of you forget my last performance with an even better one 👊🏽💯 Love you all, HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM HD!”

He also uploaded the post on his story, with the following message tagging Bare Knuckle. “I want 5 fights next year 😄 TY.” After he started his journey, many believed him to be BKFC’s featherweight prodigy. But the road was not easy. Hence, every follower was appreciated, and among them all was the LA Lakers icon as he too was head over heels for him.

He has been a Shaquille O’Neal and the Lakers fan for the longest time. That’s why he got the former’s tattoo inked on his leg. “Before Conor and Yak it was @shaq who believed in me 💛♾️💜 that’s really family for life! #DDM #ripkobe #mambamentality.”

Once he explained how the 4x NBA Champion helped him and how they forged a bond. “I just said, ‘If you got any sponsors or people that can reach my name out to and give me some sponsorships or help me get some.’” The Big Aristotle, with his big heart, became the sponsor without much deliberation.

Successfully completing three years with BKFC, Davis is one of the most promising stars on the roster. He currently sits as the #3 in the featherweight and #5 in the Lightweight. In the promotion, he has the record, 7-2-1, and 5-1 in the last six fights. The same success Shaq would hope to bring during his potential fight against Gronk now that he has found a coach to train under.

Shaquille O’Neal finds a coach who is the “Real Deal”

Earlier this month, in the episode of “The Big Podcast,” Shaq spoke to the boxing legend, Evander Holyfield. The 7-ft-1 legend even convinced the 4x World Heavyweight Champion via a handshake. Then he would fire a shot at his potential opponent, “Come on, Netflix. Gronk, who are you going to get?”

Previously, Shaquille O’Neal’s record in the boxing ring was abysmal. With a 0-2 streak as he lost to two boxers. For the ‘Shaq Vs.’ reality television series, the first opponent was Oscar De La Hoya who won by a unanimous decision.

The former breaker of boards did not hesitate for his next match against Shane Mosley. But the win was still far away. However, this was a much closer fight.

With the Real Deal Holyfield firmly in his corner, there is a chance that the result is in Shaq’s favor. Plus, he continues to keep an eye on Howard Davis. Surely he would have learned a jab or two. So, will that truly change the future? Only time will tell.