NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is gearing up to step into the boxing ring for a celebrity match against Charlie Mack, a former bodyguard for actor Will Smith. The announcement has stirred excitement among basketball fans and the broader entertainment community, but it has also prompted a heartfelt reaction from O’Neal’s son, Myles O’Neal, who expressed his concerns about his father’s decision to fight at 53 years old.
In an exclusive interview with ‘TMZ Sports’ at Los Angeles International Airport, Myles shared his mixed feelings about the upcoming bout. “I worry about him every day,” he admitted, highlighting the physical toll that boxing can take, especially for someone of Shaq’s age. Despite his worries, Myles made it clear that he stands firmly behind his father: “I’ll support him. I’ll help train, stuff like that.” His response has resonated with fans, balancing the protective instincts of a son with admiration for Shaquille’s enduring passion for sports and entertainment.
Shaquille O’Neal is no stranger to the ring. He has previously participated in exhibition boxing matches against champions like Oscar De La Hoya and Shane Mosley in 2009 and 2010, showcasing his familiarity with combat sports. Additionally, he made a splash in professional wrestling when he participated in a tag-team match for AEW in 2021. These experiences indicate that while he may be stepping into a celebrity match, Shaq is far from a novice in the world of combat sports.
The upcoming match is set to take place in Las Vegas, although specific details regarding the date and venue have yet to be announced. Fans are eagerly anticipating how Shaquille’s impressive stature, athleticism, and past fighting experience will translate in the boxing ring. The rise of celebrity boxing events in recent years has captured the public’s imagination, and O’Neal’s involvement is expected to bring even more glamour and media attention to the occasion.
Myles O’Neal’s candid comments reflect a broader sentiment among family members who navigate the intersection of celebrity boxing and genuine concern for safety. Fans and commentators have praised his honesty, recognizing the mix of family loyalty and the realities of participating in a physically demanding sport at an advanced age. Shaquille’s return to the boxing ring has sparked discussions across social media, with enthusiasts sharing predictions, memes, and excitement about the event.
As a retired NBA superstar, Shaquille O’Neal’s participation guarantees that the match will attract significant media coverage, blending the worlds of sports, entertainment, and celebrity culture. Whether fans are tuning in for the boxing or the spectacle of watching a beloved sports icon take on a new challenge, one thing is certain: this event is poised to be a memorable moment in the realm of celebrity sports.