Over his career, there was not a lot of criticism that you could levy on Shaquille O’Neal. While some pointed to his mediocre free throw shooting, his response remained the same each time. “I made ’em when they counted.” However, when your teammate criticizes you about something, there is probably some truth to it. That’s how O’Neal started his journey of weight loss. Today, the Los Angeles Lakers legend can proudly say that he’s a changed man. So much so that he even compared himself to a 7x Mr. Olympia winner.

A big part of the journey has been his investment in a particular company in 2021.

Shaquille O’Neal shows off his inner physique

At one point in time, Kobe Bryant said that Shaquille O’Neal would have been the greatest player of all time if he had focused more on his nutrition and health. Perhaps, there was some truth to that as the once mighty Shaq had a lackluster last few years in the NBA.

Since retiring, however, the 4x NBA champion has taken his health very seriously. In fact, the business mogul made it clear with his investments as well. In 2021, he became the brand ambassador for a leading sports nutrition company, Novex Biotech.

The partnership has paid major dividends for the 7ft giant. In his latest video on IG, Shaq showed off his impressive physique. Channeling his inner Hulk Hogan, he tore off his vest, showing off killer 6 pack abs. In the caption, he even compared himself to 7-time Mr Olympia, Phil Heath. He wrote, “In my former life i was @philheath we almost there @rocshabazz that @novexbiotech #gf9 baby.“

Phil, a long-time friend of Shaq, has often credited him with helping him through his losses. However, as clearly visible, Heath has also served as an inspiration to O’Neal.

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For the 15-time NBA All-Star, the journey has been a long and arduous, but successful, one. However, the big man has bodybuilding to thank for his rebirth.

Shaq shares close call with death

Unfortunately, dealing with high weight wasn’t easy for Shaq. In an interview, the big man revealed how his massive physique was causing him problems, and had pushed him to the brink of obesity.

Understanding the health concerns that came with it, O’Neal knew that he needed to get his weight under control. Therefore, a genius like him followed a meticulous plan. ?280 is too skinny. I was 401…I went into the hospital at 375. Way below 375 right now. 350 is the goal weight but if I don?t see the eight-pack, I?m a take it even lower.?

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The rebirth of O’Neal, which the big man alludes to in his post, came as a result of a tryst at the hospital. Thankfully, the big man saw the error in his ways. Taking up the legendary bodybuilder as inspiration, Shaq has been on steady progress to improve himself. The new, and improved, Shaquille O’Neal, is here. And he’s ready to dominate.