Shaquille O'Neal Launches 'Inside The Sandwich Wars'
Basketball superstar Shaquille O'Neal has kicked off an exciting culinary competition as part of Big Chicken's latest promotion, the "Inside The Sandwich Wars." This initiative brings together O'Neal and three fellow sports legends: Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, and Kenny Smith to create a limited-time lineup of mouthwatering sandwiches.
The Concept Behind the Sandwich Wars
Launched on April 23, 2025, during the thrilling basketball playoff season, this unique series will last until June 30. Guests are invited to try four BIG sandwiches, each crafted in collaboration with one of the famed athletes, culminating in a friendly yet fierce competition. The sandwich generating the most love and sales will earn a significant $25,000 donation to the champion's charity of choice, adding a generous philanthropic layer to the promotion.
O'Neal expressed his excitement over the competition, stating, "This one’s personal. These are my friends, my colleagues, and now, my competition. We’re going head-to-head in the ultimate ‘sandwich playoffs’ for our fans and a great cause.”
Meet the Sandwiches
Each sandwich brings forth Big Chicken's signature bold flavors and innovative spirit:
- - Kenny The Jet: An exhilarating creation featuring crispy chicken, fried pickles, and jalapeño slaw, this sandwich promises a Southern-style experience packed with zing. The pepper jack cheese adds a delicious kick while the Carolina BBQ sauce ties the whole ensemble together.
- - Shaq Attack: This showstopper is all about BIG flavors. Crispy chicken, melty pepper jack cheese, fiery jalapeño slaw, and chipotle BBQ come together in a toasted bun, embodying the fun-loving personality of O'Neal himself.
- - Sir Charles: Celebrating Charles Barkley's electrifying presence, this sandwich stars crispy chicken, creamy mac and cheese, smoky bacon, and crispy onions, drizzled with chipotle BBQ, all stacked on a sturdy bun.
- - The Ernie: This sandwich is designed to be bold and crunchy, featuring crispy chicken accented with smoky bacon, cheddar cheese curds, and a generous pile of onion tanglers. This one is sure to score high on the flavor scale.
Voting for the Winner
During the promotion, guests can cast votes by purchasing their favorite sandwiches, allowing fans to directly influence which athlete’s creation will be crowned the champion. Additional participation details, including how to vote, can be found at participating locations or on Big Chicken's social media platforms.
The Sandwich Wars will be available at over 40 Big Chicken locations across various states, such as Arizona, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Texas. O'Neal remarked, "The Sandwich Wars reflect what Big Chicken stands for. It’s all about bold flavor and connecting with the community. Our fans play the most important role in deciding who takes home the title!"
A Flavorful Future
Founded in 2018, Big Chicken is a venture that reflects O'Neal’s deep connection to comfort food and community. The menu boasts a variety of items inspired by O'Neal's childhood favorites that resonate today. With plans for expansion and continued innovation, Big Chicken is set to grow both domestically and internationally through franchising.
For fans eager to join this flavorful competition, more information can be found at
Big Chicken's website. To keep up with updates and participate in the Sandwich Wars, follow @BigChickenShaq on Instagram.