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via Getty

via Getty

Even though collaborations between superstars and fast-food chains are common, very few ever build their own brand. While LeBron James is an active investor with Blaze Pizza, the marketing for Big Chicken is completely different. As a result, the association with Shaquille O’Neal is front and center. Further, as?his?brand, popularity is ever-growing even among NBA circles. With a big month coming up, the Los Angeles Lakers legend had a strong message for his detractors.

The Big Chicken service is a love letter from the big man to his own childhood. As a result, the menu reflects that same ideology as it combines today’s tastes with his favorites as a kid. That authenticity is the USP for the brand, and what makes it thrive.

Shaquille O’Neal going strong

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An inside look at the phases of the former Miami Heat star is an added advantage for fans of Shaq. But it isn’t just a minor part of the O’Neal empire. Instead, it is a passion project from the 7-footer to the food industry and his fans.

With yet another successful opening, the 4x NBA Champion took time out to visit one of the outlets. In a post outlining the experience, the big man had a clear message for any remaining haters. “Look at me. What about me would make you think that I care about your opinion of me? Your opinion of me is not defining the opinion I have of myself.”

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Then, the audio explained his reasoning. “You ain’t make me, so you can’t break me. You ain’t build me, so you can’t kill me…God established me, so there ain’t even nothing you can do to me…I love it but I don’t care. And I wish the world thought like that.”

Watch This Story: With Over 172 Restaurants Across The US, Why Did Shaquille O’Neal Start The Big Chicken??

Continuing, the 7-footer had a message for the younger generation. “Do not give a darn what opinion people have of you…You be you. I’m not playing to make you feel good about me. I already feel good. I’m good.”?

 

While a few people would acknowledge the message, it’s the surging popularity of Big Chicken that would drive the comment section on the post.

The demand for Shaq’s Big Chicken continues to rise

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While a big expansion into Pennsylvania is on the horizon, fans from far and wide are clamoring for an expansion. One popular spot seems to be the New York-New Jersey area, with 3 different people suggesting the locality. Whether it was a polite “Do you ever visit Jersey?” request or a bold exclamation “Bring it TO NY BIG DAWG!!!”,?the area seems to be a popular candidate.

One fan, in particular, wasn’t satisfied with the state. Instead, his directions were extremely specific. “Huntsville Alabama mid-city district?? thank me later big fella.”?Another fan made a sincere request, highlighting the extremities she has to go to whenever craving the Big Chicken.

Bring big chicken to San Antonio! Big chicken is always my first eat every time I arrive in Vegas. Much love Shaq!”?Others, however, wanted to celebrate the legacy that the former MVP is building for himself. “Shaq, you?re all class and a role model. You?ve come a long way in life! Keep grinding!!”?

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Read More: Seamlessly Blending Shaquille O?Neal?s Childhood and Trendy Flavors ? Who Is Big Chicken?s CEO?

As Shaq celebrates another successful opening and the world celebrates along with him, the big man continues to show why he’s truly one of a kind.