The influence of the?bodybuilding?sphere is far-reaching and probably extends to all other domains of the sports world. In the most recent case, NBA legend?Shaquille O?Neal?had the community on its toes with his enthusiasm for former Mr. Olympia champion Phil Heath. Taking to his Instagram recently, Big Shaq shared a fascinating reel of himself striking some bodybuilding poses while claiming to be Heath?s reincarnation in the caption.

Likewise, the American bodybuilder stumbled upon the post and made a heartfelt promise to Shaq. In addition, Heath also recognized the basketball player?s fitness trainer and former IFBB icon, Roc Shabazz, with a sweet note.

Shaquille O?Neal reveals his bodybuilder inspiration

While the 51-year-old athlete needs no introduction with his great NBA career shining in the backdrop of his name, his admiration for Heath was a total surprise for the bodybuilder. The video featured the 7?1 pro tearing up his vest and imitating the posing style of the 43-year-old IFBB icon.

Donning a shirtless look and blue trunks, Shaq flexed his back muscles and his biceps in what seemed like his home gym, with his head almost touching the roof. “In my former life I was @philheath we almost there @rocshabazz?”?the NBA icon stated in the caption. On a humorous note, Shaq admitted his resemblance to Heath?s physique and aimed to achieve a similar shredded frame with the help of his trainer, Roc.

Read More: ?Been on a Fitness Crusade?: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Who Changed the Face of Bodybuilding, Has Outlasted Any ?Fads and Trends? to Still Look Jacked at 76

Fascinated by his feat, the athlete in question, Phil Heath, took to the comments to react to the sudden acknowledgment from the athletic great. “Im thinkin I need to pay big @shaq a visit! A day of reckoning in the gym will be something of epic proportions haha!!!! Lookin great Brother. @rocshabazz I see you,”?he penned down under the post. However, this is not the first time the two champions have?stood in support of each other.

Shaq and Phil Heath?s bro moment

A tough phase of Heath?s life once encouraged greater bonding between him and Shaq. The bodybuilder had confused a serious intestinal condition for a hernia, which followed a painful health struggle for him. Moreover, his mental health spiraled as he could not continue training in the gym.

Thus, many of Heath?s celebrity friends stood in support and smothered him with warm blessings and love. The NBA pro also seized the opportunity to offer consolation for an ailing Heath.?“I was very thankful for the words that he said. You know, he?s basically saying like sucks, happens, unfortunately,”?he recalled in an interview once.

Watch this story:?Bodybuilding beast Arnold Schwarzenegger’s top six Pack workouts

Just like brothers-in-arms, Heath and Shaq have consistently expressed their admiration for each other and nurtured a strong bond of brotherhood. Moments like these fill the community’s heart with warm feelings of joy and love.