![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20210207131433/GettyImages-157456432.jpg?width=600)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL – JUNE 15,1996: Roy Jones Jr poses before the fight against Eric Lucas at the Coliseum, on June 15,1996 in Jacksonville, Florida. Roy Jones Jr won the IBF super middleweight title by a RTD 11. (Photo by: The Ring Magazine via Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20210207131433/GettyImages-157456432.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
JACKSONVILLE, FL – JUNE 15,1996: Roy Jones Jr poses before the fight against Eric Lucas at the Coliseum, on June 15,1996 in Jacksonville, Florida. Roy Jones Jr won the IBF super middleweight title by a RTD 11. (Photo by: The Ring Magazine via Getty Images)
In the heart of a bustling Florida hotel, two stars collided in the most unexpected way. It wasn’t the typical fan-star moment. When Hollywood’s Michael Jai White met boxing legend Roy Jones Jr., no ordinary handshake would do. Instead, hands hovered in anticipation of something quite odd.
Both are masters in their fields: one, a martial artist with cinematic flair; the other, a boxing genius who’s thrown punches faster than the blink of an eye. But that day, it was a child’s game that brought them face-to-face. Why would White initiate ‘hot hands’ with Jones Jr.? Why in a lobby, amidst confused entourages and spectators?
When Hollywood meets the boxing ring: Roy Jones Jr.’s surprise encounter
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Roy Jones Jr., an iconic figure in the world of boxing, has seen punches from all angles and triumphed in numerous bouts. His lightning-quick reflexes and unparalleled agility have earned him titles and respect globally. A man of his stature, one would assume, is always ready for a fight, be it in the ring or outside. But on that fateful day in Florida, the challenge came from a place least expected.
Michael Jai White, with an unmistakable gleam in his eyes, recalled, “I remember meeting him, I ran into him in Florida and I just lost who I was. He came out of an elevator, it was in an entourage and I walked up to him and I did this.” He demonstrated, placing both of his hands in front of him.
Adam Carolla, intrigued, questioned, “You did the bow?” White replied with a hint of mischief, “No, I did this which means hot hands.” Adam chuckled, “Oh, hot hands, that’s what it’s called.”
Carrying the story forward with increasing enthusiasm, White continued, “I immediately challenged him to hot hands. He walked out, looked at him and he just did this.”
Emphasizing the disbelief of those around, he said, “His entourage was like, what the hell is going on? And so we started doing the hand slap thing and trading. I don’t know something possessed me to do that, but he totally got it. When he throws his blows, that’s something I’ve studied and practiced a lot.”
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White’s admiration for Jones Jr.’s skill was evident. “I always think that guy is competition for me with this because he had this way of not telegraphing, even throwing left hooks.”
In the confluence of cinema and sport, Michael Jai White and Roy Jones Jr.’s serendipitous encounter in Florida was more than just a fleeting moment; it symbolized the mutual admiration between two giants in their respective fields.
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As we reflect on this unique meeting, one has to wonder: If given the chance, which celebrity would you challenge in an impromptu game?
Watch this story: The Upcoming NDO Champ vs Roy Jones Jr Fight