Shaquille O’Neal is setting the record straight after social media buzzed with wild speculation about his personal life. The 7-foot-1 NBA legend found himself at the center of rumors when influencer Maria Ozuna Teachey posted a photo on Instagram featuring a tall man with large hands draped over her shoulders. Fans immediately began theorizing that the mystery man could be O’Neal, sparking a frenzy of internet speculation.
However, Shaq was quick to squash the rumors. Responding to a post on WorldStar’s Instagram page, O’Neal denied being the man in the viral photo. “Nope not the kid,” the 52-year-old four-time NBA champion commented, according to TMZ.
Adding a humorous twist to the situation, O’Neal took to his own Instagram account to poke fun at the rumors. He posted a reel of himself embracing others in a similar pose to the viral photo and captioned it, “Is this my girlfriend too? Trust me, I’ll let y’all know who my woman is, and by the way, my woman’s name is Shaqirah.” In a follow-up post, he reiterated, “I will let y’all know when I’m in love.”
Despite Shaq’s efforts to dispel the rumors, the drama continued to unfold. Influencer Maria Ozuna Teachey allegedly shared a cryptic message on social media, adding fuel to the fire. The post read, “Come on Kid. A time was Had. Why he lie to yall man,” further stoking curiosity among fans.
This is not the first time O’Neal’s name has been linked to a social media influencer. Just last June, he made headlines for his playful exchange with viral sensation Ariana Josephine, better known as the “Home Depot Girl.” Around the same time, he was also spotted at a Beverly Hills dinner with influencer Brittany Renner, creating even more buzz.
For now, O’Neal is adamant that when he’s ready to reveal his love life, the world will hear it from him directly. Until then, Shaq is content keeping fans guessing.