Shaquille O’Neal never messes around on birthdays. The bighearted party animal is known to convey the sweetest birthday messages to his family and friends and sometimes, even to his fans. Instagram users saw that on display once more and it’s for one of Shaq’s closest friends. His social circle transcends more arenas than we can keep track of. And he reminded fans that his buddy is a heavyweight.

If you’re in Shaq’s social circle, you get the exclusive rights to rib him. Deontay Wilder seized that opportunity on Shaq’s birthday. Big Diesel returned the favor in his signature style.

Shaquille O’Neal celebrates Deontay Wilder

World heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder turned 38 on October 22. His celebration was just as spectacular as he is. The Bronze Bomber hosted a star-studded bash on a yacht for himself and his birthday twin friend. His reality star partner, Telli Swift was also at the party. Usher’s songwriter, Eric Bellinger, was among the guests and even held an impromptu yacht concert.

Another one who was not going to miss his friend’s special day was Shaquille O’Neal. He was on Instagram posing with his friend. O’Neal captioned it a simple, “happy birthday champ.” Standing tall at 6’7″, the boxer barely outmuscled the 51-year-old  NBA legend in this picture.

It’s not clear if Shaq was at the yacht party from this post. It could be one of their older pictures too. After all, Big Diesel and the Bronze Bomber go way back. O’Neal was present at Wilder’s last match in October 2021 against Tyson Fury.

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Apparently, recent rumors haven’t dampened Wilder’s celebrations. He’s reportedly negotiating a return to the ring for a bout against Anthony Joshua. Going by that post, we can see who Shaq has prematurely christened the champ.

Fans were amazed to see Shaq and Deontay in the same frame. Over a year ago, they flaunted their friendship, though, the boxer had people thinking if he really knows O’Neal that well at all.

The Bronze Bomber fooled Shaq

The Los Angeles Lakers legend celebrated his 50th revolution around the sun on March 6, 2022. However, Wilder missed the memo because he wished Shaq almost a month later, on April 1. His message was heartfelt too.

“Happy Born Day @shaq I love you, bro, And nothing but love for you, as will bro @courtdreams #BombZquad #TilThisDay,” he wrote on Instagram. It still had fans scratching their heads and collectively inform him that Shaq’s birthday had passed.

Whether Wilder didn’t know about Shaq’s birthdate or if it was an intentional April Fool’s prank is up for debate.

Regardless, O’Neal kept up his tradition to let his friends know that he always remembers them on their special days. What do you think about this friendship?

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