“I went down… never came back up”: 7ft Tall Shaq Claims a Magic Word Saved Him After He “Almost Drowned” At Sea While Scuba Diving
Shaquille O’Neal, standing tall at an imposing 7 feet 1 inch and weighing in at 325 pounds, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in the history of the NBA. His physical stature, resembling a basketball titan, was a key asset that allowed him to dominate the league during his illustrious career. Yet, as Podcaster Bobbi Althoff discovered during her candid conversation with the legend, there are numerous aspects of life that prove challenging for someone of such extraordinary dimensions, which often go unnoticed by the average person.
During the podcast interview, the NBA icon expressed a desire to engage in adventurous activities like skydiving and scuba diving. However, his immense stature and the physical demands of these activities proved to be significant barriers. The challenges of fitting into the necessary equipment and ensuring safety became apparent. Shaquille O’Neal’s heartfelt explanation shed light on the limitations he faces due to his extraordinary height and weight, showcasing a more vulnerable side of the legend.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Scuba Diving Aspiration Hindered by His Stature
During their engaging podcast conversation, Bobbi Althoff probed Shaquille O’Neal about any recreational activities he might be excluded from due to his towering height and formidable physique. Shaquille O’Neal, renowned for his sense of humor and candidness, didn’t hold back in sharing some of his challenges. He revealed that there were indeed a couple of activities he longed to experience but found himself too tall to partake in, namely scuba diving and skydiving.
The notion of someone being too tall for scuba diving may strike many as surprising, and Althoff, not one to let such a statement pass without further inquiry, pressed him for clarification. His response was as intriguing as it was enlightening. It wasn’t a matter of fitting into a wetsuit or scuba gear, which is what one might initially assume. Instead, it revolved around the physical dynamics of underwater exploration.
Shaquille O’Neal, affectionately known as the Big Aristotle, has been on a health journey at 51 years old. He made headlines by shedding 55 pounds, but he’s not stopping there. On The Big Podcast with Shaq, he revealed his goal to reach a weight range between 315 and 330 pounds, a significant reduction from his current 351 pounds. This dedication showcases that the legend’s determination and ambition go beyond the basketball court, proving there’s room for growth and change even for a legend like him.
How a Magic Word Rescued Shaq from Near Drowning?
In a fascinating turn of events, The former basketball player shared a remarkable tale of survival during his scuba diving escapade. This incredible story unfolded as he recounted how he managed to save himself from a potentially life-threatening situation while underwater. In a moment of sheer determination and quick thinking, he uttered a unique phrase, “Shaqmu,” a playful play on the name “Shamu,” the famous killer whale. Shaquille O’Neal told Bobbi Althoff,
“I’m too heavy. Because when you scuba dive, they give you weights and then when I went down, I hit the button, but I never came back up. Almost drowned. But then my instincts kicked in. I just said the famous word, ‘Shaqmu.’ Like Shamu. Then I just did like that and then I was at the top.”
While Althoff and many listeners were understandably bewildered by the story, the concept of a magic word saving someone from drowning sounded fantastical. Althoff’s confusion mirrored the skepticism that often arises in such situations. Nonetheless, Shaquille O’Neal remained resolute in his claim that his stories were genuine.
Despite the doubts surrounding some of his anecdotes, the man who amassed a $400 million fortune and achieved legendary status in basketball staunchly affirmed the authenticity of his experiences. This served as a testament to his larger-than-life persona and the captivating tapestry of life events that have defined his remarkable journey, leaving listeners both entertained and intrigued by the enigmatic tales of the NBA icon.
Also Read: $400M Rich ‘Grown Ups 2’ Star Shaquille O’Neal Leaving Kids Penniless: “We ain’t rich. I’m rich”
Source: YouTube
