
via Imago
via Carmelo Anthony Instagram

via Imago
via Carmelo Anthony Instagram
Imagine being so obsessed with Michael Jordan that you turn your body into a walking shrine. We’re not just talking about a subtle tattoo of his jersey number or iconic dunk silhouette. Nope, this guy went all out. Front and back, his skin is now permanently covered with a life-size rendition of Jordan’s No. 23 jersey. It’s bold, it’s wild, and while it’s certainly turning heads, not everyone is clapping. One notable critic? Carmelo Anthony.
The fan didn’t just slap on Jordan’s number; this tattoo captures every tiny detail. From the realistic folds and creases in the fabric to the holes in the jersey’s mesh, it’s like someone photoshopped an actual uniform onto his body. Jordan’s signature? That’s there too.
Naturally, the internet blew up. “Insane” and “extreme” were some of the milder reactions online, but hey, it’s his body. Love it or hate it, the guy’s got the whole GOAT uniform etched into his skin—forever.
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And during the latest 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Carmelo Anthony didn’t hold back while reacting to it. His co-host Monica McNutt expressed her feelings, saying, “That’s terrible.” Blake Griffin, the special guest, took it a step further, declaring, “Having another man’s name on your back? That doesn’t work for me.” It was clear this tattoo wasn’t winning any fans in the room. And then Melo weighed in.

via Imago
NY: 2024 Kering For Women Dinner – Arrivals Carmelo Anthony attends the 2024 Kering for Women dinner at The Pool, New York, NY, September 9, 2024. New York NY USA NOxUSExINxGERMANY PUBLICATIONxINxALGxARGxAUTxBRNxBRAxCANxCHIxCHNxCOLxECUxEGYxGRExINDxIRIxIRQxISRxJORxKUWxLIBxLBAxMLTxMEXxMARxOMAxPERxQATxKSAxSUIxSYRxTUNxTURxUAExUKxVENxYEMxONLY Copyright: xAnthonyxBeharx Editorial use only sipausa_55821797
To be fair, Melo saw both sides, calling it a “commitment.” But before you think he was all-in, he made his stance crystal clear. “I’m cool with a little tattoo, you know what I mean, a number, maybe even a logo,” he started. “But not a jersey. That’s nasty—that’s nasty work.”
Surprisingly, this isn’t the first time someone’s gone this far. Back in 2018, another MJ superfan tattooed Jordan’s jersey across his entire back, mesh dots and all. The level of detail was next-level, just like this guy’s, proving some fans will stop at nothing for their idols. But you know Melo has a unique connection with tattoos.
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Carmelo Anthony’s love for tattoos
When it comes to body art, Carmelo Anthony is in a league of his own. With more than 20 tattoos covering his body, each design tells a part of his story. Whether it’s a nod to his beliefs or a tribute to his family, Melo’s ink isn’t just for show—it’s personal.
What’s your perspective on:
Is a full-body Jordan tattoo a tribute or just plain over-the-top obsession?
Have an interesting take?
Speaking of personal, nothing beats the tattoos he got for his son, Kiyan. On his right pec, Melo proudly displays “Kiyan Carmelo Anthony” alongside Kiyan’s birthdate, “March 7, 2007.” If that’s not touching enough, he’s even inked his son’s tiny footprints on his chest—a constant reminder of the deep bond they share.
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Then there’s the WB tattoo on his left shoulder that often throws people off. Many think it’s the Warner Brothers logo, but nope—it’s a shout-out to West Baltimore, the neighborhood that shaped Melo.
And of course, Melo didn’t forget to honor his dad. The Puerto Rican flag inked on his right hand symbolizes his father’s heritage and serves as a link to a part of his identity he holds close. For Carmelo Anthony, tattoos are more than art—they’re a timeline of his life, passions, and the people he cherishes most.
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Is a full-body Jordan tattoo a tribute or just plain over-the-top obsession?