Maybe checking out this week’s UFC 96 betting card in his sportsbook has Shaquille O’Neal in an ornery mood, because the “Big Aristotle” has had some choice words for the future of the league’s big men. First there was his rebuttal to Toronto’s Chris Bosh, who stated that referees were ignoring O’Neal’s three-second violations in the Suns’ 133-113 win over the Raptors in which Shaq dropped 45 points and 11 boards. Shaq responded by calling Bosh the “RuPaul of big men”. Ouch. Bosh better watch out the next time he faces the “Diesel”.

Ahead of Tuesday’s meeting with Orlando, Shaq basically said that Dwight Howard is not on his level, because he hasn’t won anything yet. This is actually true, but unnecessary. I think everyone knows this, and if anything, D-12′s been nothing but respectful to Shaq. The behemoths battled to a standstill in a 111-99 win for Orlando, as Howard had 21 points and eight boards, while Shaq had 19 and 11 rebounds in a losing effort. It sounds like Shaq trying to get into the young man’s mind, but it didn’t work as the Magic won the game and they’re miles ahead of the Suns in NBA betting terms. I’m sure the guys are decent friends, or else we wouldn’t get moments like this:

Again, it’s gonna be a sad day when the big fella retires. TNT better have a spot ready for him.