Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard have reignited their long-standing feud, exchanging pointed remarks on social media. The two former NBA stars, who have shared public friction for years, have once again clashed over Howard’s use of the “Superman” nickname.
O’Neal took to Instagram to criticize Howard, writing, “U can’t call yourself me and have one ring that u was a role player in getting. It’s only one baby. And he’s I said it.” The post referred to Howard’s sole NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers, which Shaq downplayed by questioning Howard’s contributions to the title.
In response, Howard, using an alias, fired back at O’Neal’s accusations, writing, “Who I never called myself you! This is petty. My nickname is DEEBO! Other people called me Superman & we could’ve talked out whatever issue there is but you got me blocked. But it’s all love Shaq. Keep being a legend!”
Howard emphasized that he had never intentionally compared himself to O’Neal and suggested they could have resolved their differences privately. Despite his conciliatory tone, he pointed out that O’Neal had blocked him on social media, making communication difficult.
The back-and-forth did not end there. Howard later posted from his main account, stating, “Who blocks someone over a nickname owned by Warner Brothers? There is no REAL Superman it sounds petty.”
O’Neal, however, was quick to respond, denying that he had blocked Howard. In a tweet, Shaq said, “I didn’t block you I just don’t care for crybabies, enjoy yourself in Taiwan, hope u win,” referring to Howard’s playing career in Taiwan. This remark reignited tensions, as it took a direct shot at Howard’s post-NBA career.
The “Superman” nickname has long been a point of contention between the two players. O’Neal famously embraced the moniker during his Hall of Fame career, which included four NBA championships. Howard, who was also called “Superman” during his time with the Orlando Magic, has always been compared to O’Neal due to their similar playing styles and dominance as big men in the league.
While this feud has played out multiple times in the media, it appears neither player is willing to back down.
