Despite success at every level, there was one true criticism of the Big Aristotle. However, after a few dedicated months of hard work, Shaquille O’Neal has been able to get his weight under control. But he isn’t keen on stopping just yet. Instead, he wants to continue to get healthier. Just like every other aspect of his life, Shaq wants to continue to improve.

Moreover, there is one “fear” in particular that keeps him on the fitness track.

Shaquille O’Neal aiming for higher ground

During his tenure in the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers legend’s physique got progressively worse. After a point, his greatest asset had become his biggest weakness. However, since retirement, O’Neal has come to realize the importance of health and fitness.

By his confession, he was far ahead of the 400-pound mark. But, through determination, he has brought down the mark to near-350. So much so that thirst traps are now becoming part of the equation for him.

However, the Miami Heat legend isn’t one to settle for anything less than perfection. Moreover, there is a special motivation behind his current dieting turn. “I like to look really good, and I like to take a vacation because I still have the model of a great athlete.”?

Despite a little setback, Shaquille has the same goal in his mind. One that lets him bypass speed bumps. “I took about two months off but I’m going to get back on…My goal is to take my shirt off and have a whole 12-pack…That’s my goal. I like to get motivated and then when I see a little bit of gains, I’m like, okay, I’m good.”?

Watch This Story: 50-Lbs-Lighter Shaquille O’Neal Ditches His 150 Restaurants For $3,000,000,000-Worth Company

Of course, there is one standard that O’Neal does not want to fall to. “As long as I don’t have the CB-OTBB…That’s the Charles Barkley Over-the-Belly Belt. I don’t want to have that syndrome. What you see right now is flat. So if I ever get the CB-OTBB, I’m going to be upset.”

With his latest pictures a far cry from the CB-OTBB, he told the messenger, O’Neal can rest safely knowing that the barometer is far away. During a podcast appearance, O’Neal made it clear that his shirtless pictures were indeed thirst traps. While not offering a straight answer, the hint from the finest 50-year-old in the world was enough. Apparently, at 51, the same tradition continues.

But, even though blatantly acknowledging them as thirst traps, the work that the 4x NBA Champion has put into his body is commendable. Now far from his health-scare days, the big man can rest comfortably. However, with fear looming and lofty expectations for himself, the sky is the limit for O’Neal’s transformative journey.

Read More: Shaquille O?Neal Proves to Be the ?Finest? 51YO in Town After Living Up to Female Friend?s Accusations