Shaquille O'Neal ropes in 4X World Heavyweight champion and Mike Tyson rival as trainer for bout against Rob Gronkowski: "Your a** is in trouble"
Shaquille O'Neal and Rob Gronkowski announced that they would put up NBA versus NFL-themed boxing bouts during the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight. The former New England Patriots star requested that he and the Los Angeles Lakers icon would be the first headliner. Although the plan hasn’t been finalized, many have been hoping the fight will happen.
In the latest episode of “The Big Podcast with Shaq,” O’Neal might have found his boxing coach. The four-time NBA champ had this to say to Evander Holyfield:
“I’m gonna start getting in shape because you inspired me today. I was going to start my diet next month, but we had Alonzo [Mourning] on the podcast a couple of weeks ago. Now, you guys are killing me, so I’m going to start my diet today for you.”
“So, we’re gonna sign the contract now. When I fight Gronk, you're going to be my coach.”
Mike Tyson's former rival shook on the deal and agreed to do as asked.
Shaquille O'Neal continued:
“Oh, Gronk! Gronk is going down. Gronk, your little a** in trouble.”
If the bout happens, the fight will pit the 52-year-old Shaquille O'Neal against the 35-year-old former NFL superstar tight end. Holyfield said he would help Shaq “put down” the four-time Super Bowl winner. O’Neal candidly told the boxing legend that he couldn’t run because of his hips. Holyfield wasn’t too worried about that issue as the big man could ride a bike to get in shape.
Rob Gronkowski added to the anticipation when he shared on Instagram a hilarious video of himself punching a tree in his garden. He captioned the clip:
“Training starts today @shaq”
The prize money could make or break the planned fight between Shaquille O'Neal and Rob Gronkowski
The planned O’Neal-Gronkowski fight might not happen if the right price isn’t met. Rob Gronkowski said on the “Dues on Dudes” podcast:
“I actually would fight Shaq in a boxing match. Here’s the thing: I would never do the UFC stuff, no matter what the payment is, no matter how much money it is. But I would box someone if the money was right, no doubt about it. At least $12 million, minimum.”
Shaquille O'Neal didn’t mention the prize money for the fight. He might comment about it in the future, but for now, he is excited to get Evander Holyfield in his corner.