Charles Barkley is an avid golfer and last month impressed many during his 29th appearance at the ACC Golf Championship. But two years ago, he decided to end any contractual talks with LIV Golf to focus on the Inside Show. The Philadelphia 76ers legend at that time said his decision did not have to do with LIV Golf being backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Although he declined the role, his best friend Shaquille O’Neal has made a deal, and it’s not for the broadcasting role.

The Los Angeles Lakers legend will perform at the event next month on the 21st. Maridoe Golf Club will host from 20 to 22, and Sports Illustrated is responsible for a live entertainment event. Shaquille O’Neal will headline the event at the Groot Hospitality’s Komodo restaurant and lounge in Dallas. The Texan resident will also have other performers, including Zack Bia, Dombresky, and Linska.

According to WFAA, tickets start from $75, and VIP tables start at $3,000 for six guests. DJ Diesel will also perform at the ‘largest bass music festival in Texas’ in November this year. Last year, the inaugural event had 15,000 fans and they expect it to be bigger and better this year. But Shaquille O’Neal’s DJ career is not the most lucrative of his multiple side hustles. Earlier this year he revealed to his co-host Adam Lefkoe by saying he loses money playing with each DJ gig.

Amidst the NBA TNT contractual talks, Shaquille O’Neal is continuing his offseason with some headbangers. He is yet to speak about his commitment post this season while Charles Barkley has announced he will continue to honor his deal. Chuck gave a similar reason for declining a proposal from LIV Golf.

The real reason why Barkley denied a deal unlike Shaquille O’Neal

In July 2022, Charles Barkley spoke to the NY Post to comment about his future contract talks with LIV Golf. He stated he would stay with the Inside Crew and continue his TNT analyst role. “I want to thank Greg Norman and LIV for their interest in me,” Barkley said in a phone interview.

The 61-year-old said he wanted to be fair with Turner and would stay with them until his initial contract expired in 2025. Interestingly, in the same year, he signed a 10-year extension worth more than $100 million. Before turning down LIV Golf, reports suggested he would be offered an outrageous amount to begin his new broadcasting career.

Moreover, Charles Barkley might pivot to other sports once the NBA deal ends. In the interview with Dan Patrick, Barkley opened up about the idea of taking up the French Open. Turner Sports also has acquired rights for College Football Playoffs, Roland-Garros, NASCAR, BIG EAST college basketball, and Mountain West football.

So, fans remain invested to see where Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley continue their journey.