“Probably the Strongest Guy in the NBA”: 7 Feet Giant Shaquille O’Neal Once Hailed 6’1 John Cena Above All Other Basketball Powerhouses, Owing to an Arm Wrestling Match

During his time in the WWE, John Cena became popular due to his all-conquering run as the face of the company. ‘The Franchise Player’ also became a hit among the fans due to his incredible feats of strength. His strong, muscular physique and power led to him earning the moniker ‘Super Cena’, an over the top comparison to DC superhero Superman. NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal once also had high praise for John Cena’s astonishing strength after the former WWE Champion gave him a run for his money in an arm wrestling match.

The two sporting icons had an arm-wrestling match a few years ago, which saw them displaying incredible strength. The contest ended in a draw after a tightly fought match.

In an interview after this battle, Cena said Shaquille O’Neal outmatched him, while the NBA praised the now Hollywood actor’s strength.

Shaq called John Cena the strongest guy in the ‘NBA’

John Cena and Shaquille O’Neal are two entertaining personalities. It would’ve made for a lively watch had the two stars interacted with each other in WWE, while Cena was in his prime. Nonetheless, the fans are still treated to funny interactions between these two from time to time.

In their arm-wrestling match, Cena ran Shaq close despite the Lakers legend’s distinct size disadvantage. The match swung both ways before they decided to call it a draw. After their epic arm-wrestling showdown nearly four years ago, John Cena recalled the moment in an interview with NBA on TNT and admitted that the ‘Diesel’ was stronger than him. He said that Shaq grossly outmatched him in the contest.

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However, in the same interview, the four-time NBA Champion hailed ‘The Peacemaker’ star for his strength. He even called him as the strongest guy he has faced in NBA. Shaq said, “John is probably the strongest guy in the NBA.” Cena replied to this remark, “No, no, no, don’t get it twisted. That’s the Natural Ballers Association he’s talking about.” Despite Cena’s clever retort, Shaq continued and said, “He’s really strong. And he can dunk, off the vert, two hands. He did it. No stretch at all, he went two hands, knees, and I was like, OK”‘!

Shaquille O’Neal certifying the 16-time WWE World Champion’s status as ‘Super Cena’ tells a lot. Shaq is himself a strong individual and has battled many powerhouses in the NBA throughout his career.

Judging by their arm-wrestling contest, a match between John Cena and Big Shaq could’ve been a special treat for the fans.

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