“I’m like Michael Jordan, but I’m the VILLAIN”: Terrell Owens Compares Himself To Chad Ochocinco and Chicago Bulls Legend

Given his supreme confidence, it was not surprising to see Terrell Owens compare himself to MJ and Chad Ochocinco on an episode of his podcast.

T.O, known for his eccentric behavior and creative TD celebrations, is one of the game’s greatest ever wide receivers. In his 16 year career, the wideout caught 1,078 passes for 15,934 yards, earning 6 Pro Bowl selections and eventually a place in the pro football Hall of Fame.

Nowadays, Owens hosts a podcast called “Getcha Popcorn Ready” alongside Matthew Hatchette, better known as “Hatch”. Hatchette, like T.O., is also a former NFL WR.

In a recent episode, the duo discussed how Owens was perceived as a “bad person” or a “villain” for some of his touchdown celebrations, while other players were treated differently.

Specifically, Hatch referred to Owens’ friend and former rival, Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson. When questioned about it, Owens admitted that it did bother him when ESPN and other outlets would condemn him for the same things they praised Ochocinco for.

However, Owens seemed proud of his impact on the modern game. He said, “Everything that I was vilified for, or condemned for, they’re embracing it n0w.”

He certainly makes a valid point. In many ways, players like T.O. are responsible for some of the modern football culture. Of course, this claim led to a hilarious debate between the pair as to whether Owens was “ahead of his time” or not.

Also read: “I’ll Never Forget It”: ex-NFL WR Terrell Owens Reveals Longstanding Beef With Chris Carter

Terrell Owens Claims He Was Mistaken for Michael Jordan

Owens also felt that he was similar to MJ in terms of their confidence and ability. He says that in college and high school, he never had the confidence he found later.

However when he reached the pros, he felt he had the ability to get in the “zone”. When the game was on the line, he claimed, the ball was going to him, just like the Bulls would “give the ball to 23 and let him work.”

Owens also recalled a time he was mistaken for the Bulls legend. According to him, he wouldn’t be recognized often in foreign countries.

Given that football isn’t popular outside the US, this makes sense. But, as Owens remembers, someone thought he was MJ in an overseas airport, simply because of his physical appearance.

“Tall, black, and bald”, in his own words.