Shaquille O’Neal dropped the jersey and picked up weights and a cable stack. In an October 9 TikTok video, he showed off his latest chest workout at 54 and sent a message to bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger.
For almost two decades, O’Neal dominated the NBA and served as one of the greatest centers of all time. He and the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant formed one of the strongest duos the league had seen and consistently played off each other’s strengths. Ultimately, Shaq managed to secure four championships, cementing his legacy in the sport.
When the COVID-19 pandemic was ravaging the globe, Shaq struggled with weight gain like many others. At the time, he was weighing over 400 pounds and decided to make substantial changes to his diet and training. His hard work paid off; Shaq showcased a complete body transformation and revealed he lost 55 pounds.
The 7-foot-1 basketball star hasn’t slowed down inside the gym. He trains regularly at 54 with resistance training. From posing sessions to channeling his inner Phil Heath, Shaq is focused on maintaining his strength, endurance, and longevity since stepping away from the courts.
Shaquille O’Neal Crushes Chest Workout at 54, Has Message for Arnold Schwarzenegger
In the TikTok video, Shaq is seen pushing through cable chest fly reps with a slower tempo:
“Here I come Arnold shaqanager,” Shaquille O’Neal shared.
@shaq
Here I come Arnold shaqanager
After meeting Schwarzenegger face-to-face, fans have long speculated about Shaq making a splash in bodybuilding. Even Arnold’s son, Joseph Baena, has called to see Shaq do a guest posing routine, given how many years he’s teased the idea.
Though Shaq has never stepped on a bodybuilding stage, he’s a massive fan of the sport. He was tapped as the honorary ambassador for the Mr. Olympia back in 2020. Olympia President Dan Solomon has spoken up on his involvement, saying:
“In recent years, Shaq has become an enthusiastic supporter of Olympia Weekend. He follows the bodybuilding scene with the same authenticity and passion that has made him one of today’s most sought after product endorsers and a powerhouse in the world of business and entertainment.”
“When Shaq puts his name on something, you know it’s gonna be big. We are planning a great experience for the fans, athletes and sponsors.”
From basketball to the gym, Shaquille O’Neal still makes intense training a priority. At 54, he continues to maintain his fitness and strength long after leaving the courts.
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