Renowned for his candid demeanor, Charles Barkley continues to make waves with his outspoken commentary, both on television and various podcasts.
Recently, Barkley delved into his playing days on NFL legend Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast, shedding light on various anecdotes, including his involvement in a notorious NBA brawl.
Recalling the incident, Barkley expressed lingering frustration over the NBA’s handling of the situation, claiming the league owed him $5000 for his role in the altercation.
Despite official records indicating a $1000 fine, Barkley remains adamant about the owed amount, underscoring his discontent with the league.
Charles Barkley Reveals Why He Grabbed Larry Bird
The altercation in question occurred during a 1984 match between the Celtics and the Sixers, where Larry Bird and Julius Erving engaged in a heated confrontation that escalated into a fistfight. Barkley’s involvement, notably seen holding Bird back, has been a subject of scrutiny over the years.
Barkley clarified his actions during the melee, attributing his intervention to the escalating tension between Bird and Dr J.
According to Barkley, Bird’s derogatory remarks towards Erving prompted the latter to retaliate, leading to the altercation. Barkley’s decision to restrain Bird stemmed from a desire to prevent further escalation and protect his Sixers teammate.
Despite the brawl being emblematic of the intense basketball scene of the ’80s, Barkley’s insights offer a fresh perspective on the incident, highlighting the interpersonal dynamics and tensions among basketball’s biggest stars of the era.
