Charles Barkley Delivers 2 Word Judgment on Will Smith Slapgate at Oscars Going Against Close Friend Shaq

The voice of Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars seems to have echoed throughout the world. Everyone from stars to fans has shared their opinion on the incident, either siding with Smith or Rock. Retired NBA icon Charles Barkley was no exception.

During a recent appearance on the Dan Patrick Show, Barkley revealed his candid take on the matter.?Interestingly, Barkley’s opinion was slightly varied from friend Shaquille O’Neal, who had his own unique points to share.

Charles Barkley’s statement is a contrast to O’Neal’s take

During Barkley’s interview, Patrick started by asking the 59-year-old to host the Oscars. Which, for Barkley, might be a lot of ‘pressure’.

The 11-time NBA All-Star himself spoke of Smith and Rock, highlighting the fact that he loves Rock and Smith both. However, he does not support the King Richard actor. “I love Chris Rock; I love Will Smith. But Will Smith was 100% wrong. That’s it”.?

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The topic was discussed a little further, Barkley himself admitting to some old mistakes. The former NBA star has punched people and been arrested but focused on growing up instead of carrying that behavior with him. As per Barkley, one needs to admit where they are wrong. “It was an overreaction,” Barkley added with reference to his past.

As an NBA star, Barkley has surely been on the receiving end of some unacceptable insults by hecklers. However, at the end of the day, that comes as a part of the job. As someone who has to focus on their game, every single insult and expletive cannot be responded to.

Did O’Neal agree with Barkley?

That being said, Barkley’s response was a sharp contrast to O’Neal’s. The Los Angeles Lakers legend discussed the issue on his ‘Big Shaq’ podcast, narrating this incident from his point of view. While Barkley’s opinion was a two-word final say, O’Neal seemed to figure out why Smith slapped Rock.

?No no he laughed and then Jada did like this,” O’Neal said. “That?s when the PPL kicks in. Because all you married guys know, Unhappy wife, unhappy life.?

Smith’s reaction resulted from Rock joking about his wife Jada and was apparently seen laughing at first. Later, he walked up on stage to slap Rock, while telling him to not mention his wife.

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Of course, every individual has seen the incident differently. Smith, himself has apologized for his behavior, with many expecting some sort of action to be taken. Others have tried to understand the actor, unable to understand his outburst.

Do you agree with Barkley’s statement? Let us know in the comments below.