Charles Barkley reveals Michael Jordan's last words before he stopped talking to him: "Motherf*ker, f*k you"
There have been plenty of friendships in the NBA that have been ruined for various reasons, including the relationship between Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan. The two legends of the game were close back in their playing days, up until they retired. Their friendship ended after Barkley shared an honest take.
In 2012, Chuck appeared on "The Waddle & Silvy Show" and gave his honest criticism of his former best friend's ownership skills. Jordan didn't take it well and had some harsh words for Barkley.
"He was my best friend at the time and I love the guy and I miss the guy," Barkley said. "But you know, I got to do my job. First of all, I don't think it's fair for me to critique other GM's and coaches and have a double standard. ... I think I'm fair to everybody.
"What I said about Michael, I said, I don't know if he's ever going to be successful because of the people around him. I think he hires too many of his friends. Because your friends don't ever tell you 'no'."
Charles Barkley gets real on why Michael Jordan no longer talks to him. Full episode drops tomorrow. #AlltheSmoke 💨 https://t.co/pCerIDBTAV
Barkley continued:
"He went ballistic, and he called me and that's the last thing I heard, 'Motherf**ker, f**k you. You're supposed to be my boy.' And I said, 'Man, I gotta do my job.' And were haven't spoken since that night."
Barkley isn't known to back down against anyone. He's also not wise in choosing which words to use. But the Round Mound of Rebound's take on Jordan's skills as a team executive aged like wine. Since acquiring a small stake from the Charlotte franchise in 2006, the organization has not achieved any kind of success under his ownership.
Even though Chuck was right with his take, it damaged their relationship. The two have not spoken since the former Phoenix Suns forward spoke about the six-time champ's skills as a team owner. By the looks of things, it could take a while for Barkley and Jordan to fix their issues.
Also read: Charles Barkley explains why Magic Johnson and Larry Bird are two most important figures in NBA history
Despite their feud, Charles Barkley still considers Michael Jordan as the GOAT
The never-ending debate on which player is the greatest of all-time can't be discussed without Jordan and LeBron James in the mix. Where there are some who choose LeBron as their GOAT choice, Charles Barkley has remained loyal in naming MJ as the GOAT.
"That's what made him the GOAT. He takes everything personally. It was an honor and a privilege to compete against him."
Despite the status of their relationship as of now, Barkley still holds MJ in high regard in terms of greatness.
Also read: Charles Barkley wants people to acknowledge Kareem Abdul-Jabbar before LeBron James breaks his scoring record