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While the debate can rage on for time immemorial, there isn’t a definite answer to be found. Whether someone sides with LeBron James or agrees with the status quo of Michael Jordan, their pick in the GOAT debate is set. Even though new figures or data might come in, the justification is already ready. Anytime a media network runs this debate on their show, the same tired arguments make the rounds, further proving the above point. However, what if there is some hypocrisy in the mix?

While today he might preach for Michael and ardently throw vitriol at James, it was a different story some time back for this veteran analyst. Before LBJ came into the league, his muse for disdain was shockingly?His Airness himself.

Skip Bayless, LeBron James and Michael Jordan hater?

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In a resurfaced news article from the 2002-2003 season, Skip Bayless is going after an NBA player. Not surprising in the least, sure. But, that player is Michael Jeffrey Jordan. In a twist, the GOAT he pledges loyalty to today was the unfortunate victim of his scathing remarks. In the article, Skip goes after the Chicago Bulls legend for his lack of commitment to the sport. Moreover, his biggest gripe is with Jordan’s reluctance to stay in shape for the NBA.

“A recurring theme of Michael Jordan’s final year with the Chicago Bulls was his desire to retire and have a potbelly. I ran into him at a health club about six months after he quit and he proudly showed me the spare tire that was growing around his waist.”

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But, Skip’s hopes of the 6-time Champion changing his ways did not come to be. As a result, the harshness of the entire article went a step further.

When he announced his second NBA comeback, at age 38, I figured the world’s greatest athlete finally would have to admit he was human…Instead, Jordan continued to eat, drink, and smoke the way he did when he was 28…But Air Jordan remained Floor Jordan.”

Read More: 14 Years After Michael Jordan?s HOF Induction, $50 Billion Worth Media House Settles an Unusual GOAT Debate

As part of a thread “exposing” Mike’s Washington Wizards years, X user MythNix brought attention to the article, providing a summary of the events leading up to it.

 

However, it wasn’t the only time the man who preaches Jordan’s greatness at every turn went after His Airness.?

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MJ has a low basketball IQ according to Skip

During the days without a debate partner, Bayless was carrying on strong with his own podcast. However, he made some shocking remarks about Michael during that time. Firstly, he made it clear that he would never want to debate with the 5-time MVP.

But, not out of respect or fear. Instead, out of thinking that the 10-time scoring champion has a low basketball IQ. Pointing to Jordan’s horrific tenure as owner and GM, Bayless made the assumption that Mike was bad at evaluating talent.

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After years of preaching otherwise, it seems like Skip too can be fair against a Michael Jordan notion. Whether or not he can bring that same energy to the newly revamped Undisputed?remains to be seen.

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