Sports Archives - Cigar Life Guy

Interview: James Lee of Cigar Pxrn

Posted on September 26, 2023 by Staff

It’s hard to forget a name like Cigar Pxrn, but former NFL tackle and Cigar Pxrn founder James Lee was going for bold. There may be no better way to express love and appreciation for cigar life than donning some Cigar Pxrn apparel. Lee talked with Cigar Life Guy about the life-changing first premium cigar, finding a niche in the cigar industry, and why he’s still holding out on blending his own cigars.

The First Premium Smoke

Cigar Life Guy: Tell me about your first premium cigar experience.

James Lee: My first cigar experience was with a neighbor. I had a neighbor, Andre, and he would always host cookouts. He would have them when I was playing during the season. But I wasn’t a smoker. I was playing football (An NFL career that included stints with Cleveland Tampa Bay and Washington). It was the Spring of 2010. He threw some steaks on the grill and I was like, why not? And I smoked my first cigar- an ACID Kuba Kuba. That changed my life. That’s a day I’ll never forget.

What’s in a Name?

Cigar Life Guy: Cigar Pxrn is an evocative name. What’s the story behind it?

James Lee: Well for one Cigar Pxrn is probably the best name for a cigar brand (laughs), but the name came as a play off of food porn. At the time I was trying to create a name for the brand, food porn was everywhere. Everybody was cooking for Youtube videos and we just played off of that for the love of cigars like people did for the love of food. When we did it, the word cigar porn (p-o-r-n) would actually send you to a porn site. So we had to create an avenue to keep people from going to a porn site. That’s how I came up with the “x”. We put two cigars across each other to create the “x”.

Cigar Life Guy: You played in the NFL and have a degree in Early Childhood Development. How did you get into the apparel and cigar business?

James Lee: After I retired from football, I became a member of the cigar lounge in Charlotte (Charlotte Cigar Club). Throughout my years of being there, cigar reps would come by and they would sell you boxes. There would be specials on boxes and you could buy raffle tickets to win a hat or t-shirt. That was the only way that you could express that you loved cigars- by wearing that particular brand of the rep that would come into the shop. At the time I was not smoking a brand, but I realized there was a niche. I can create a brand for all cigar lovers- not specific to one brand. So it’s not locking into one brand. It’s just saying “I love cigars”. Once I did my research, I realized that there was nothing out there other than getting the shirts and hats from the cigar reps. In 2017 that was the only way to get apparel. You go to somebody’s website and buy a shirt. So I created a brand, Cigar Pxrn.

One of Kind Apparel

Cigar Life Guy: What makes Cigar Pxrn apparel and accessories unique?

James Lee: Cigar Pxrn is loud, bold, and edgy. We run into so many people that love the shirt or they say, “I can’t wear that shirt.” So it also screams confidence. You have to be a strong individual to put the word “pxrn” on your chest because of the attention that you’re going to get from it. If you’re a man you’re going to get attention from women. If you’re a woman you’re going to receive some compliments from men. So I feel we’re unique because we’re edgy. We put two of the best industries together as one and made it a brand.

Cigar Life Guy: How do you want cigar smokers and consumers to see your brand?

James Lee: I want people to see my brand as an image of greatness. We continue to create unique and quality products. I have a strong team of representatives throughout the world who represent Cigar Pxrn and the lifestyle just as well as I do. They’re a reflection of me in their own cities and we are all as one. It’s all greatness.

Not Trying To Do Too Much

Cigar Life Guy: Have you looked at expanding beyond apparel and accessories to maybe a full line of cigars? If so, what would need to be true for you to seriously consider it?

James Lee: For years I’ve gotten that question- “When are you going to make a cigar?” I’ve gone back and forth with it. But I try not to focus on multiple things at once because you can lose out on one thing trying to create something else. We started off as a lifestyle brand. Right now it’s just not the right time. As a brand, our main goal is to continue to bless the cigar industry through fashion.

I have considered it. I’ve had people at PCA this year say, ” When are we gonna make that cigar for you?” But people have asked since day one.

When you’re trying to do too much at once your focus is lost. You can’t go 100 percent in two things at once. We’re going into year six and we’re just focused on apparel right now.

Cigar Life Guy: What’s next for Cigar Pxrn?

James Lee: We’re trying to expand to cater to more women. Today you have an enormous amount of women smoking cigars. So many women are coming into the industry so we want to expand our women’s line beyond t-shirts. Just give them more options so they can express themselves. Men are fine just throwing on a T-shirt. So women I want to put more emphasis on them. We just created our own collection of sunglasses. We plan to get into dress apparel, Fall colors for dresses, and different styles of shirts. We’re trying to get into the bling. Something other than a V-neck T-shirt.

Follow James on Instagram and check out the latest Cigar Pxrn apparel here.

Photo credit: James Lee

Karl “The Mailman” Malone Lives the Cigar Life

Posted on February 28, 2023 by Staff

When the Louisiana State University Tigers won the National Championship in 2020, future NFL star and Cincinnati Bengal Joe Burrow and his teammates were nearly arrested for lighting up victory cigars in the locker room. Burrow, well known for his victory cigars, smokes a variety that includes La Flor Dominicana sticks. However, on that fateful night in 2020, Burrow was smoking a Karl Malone — a small batch, barrel-aged cigar made by La Aurora. The brand named the smoke after NBA legend Karl “The Mailman” Malone.

The former power forward, whom many consider the best the NBA has ever seen, prefers to keep a low profile today. However, he is a family man, an avid outdoorsman, and a jack of all trades. Since retiring from the NBA in 2004 and moving back to his hometown in Louisiana, Malone has had his hand in various businesses. From car dealerships to fast food franchises, “the Mailman” has been active since his playing days. When he isn’t deer hunting or spending time with family, you’ll find him at Legends, the cigar and vape shop he owns and runs with his daughter, Kadee.

Here’s a look at the Utah Jazz Hall of Famer, Olympic Gold medalist, and maker of barrel-aged rum-infused cigars by La Aurora.

Early Career

Malone was born in Summerfield, Louisiana, in 1963. The youngest of nine children, Malone was raised by a single mother and spent his childhood hunting and fishing. After leading his high school team to several Louisiana titles, he played college ball at Louisiana Tech University. In 1985 he led them to their first NCAA tournament. Unfortunately, the team lost in the Sweet 16 bracket, and Malone was heading to the NBA.

NBA Star and Olympian

The Utah Jazz drafted him as their thirteenth pick that year and began one of the most prolific NBA careers of all time. Malone, nicknamed “the Mailman” because he always delivered, is the third-best all-time in NBA scoring. In addition, he led the Jazz to the playoffs every year during his career.

Malone was a star immediately upon entering the league; he averaged 14.9 points per game and made the 1986 All-Rookie Team. The Jazz were eliminated during the first round of the playoffs that year, but Malone and teammate John Stockton became one of the most dynamic duos in NBA history. By 1988 Malone averaged 27.1 points per game and made his first All-Star appearance. The Jazz then selected him to join the All-Star team for 14 seasons.

Behind Malone and Stockton, the Jazz were consistent contenders in the Western Conference, and Malone was regularly among the top scorers in the league. However, Malone had the misfortune of playing in an era with Michael Jordan and frequently finished just behind the legendary Chicago Bull. However, the two became teammates with other NBA greats, Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson, representing the United States in the 1992 Summer Olympic Games. Dubbed the “Dream Team,” they easily won the gold medal game in 1992 and again in 1996. Many consider it the greatest sports team ever assembled.

Hall of Famer

Despite playing in 1,476 games, scoring 36,928 points, and winning two MVP awards, Malone never won an NBA championship. He lost to Jordan and the Bulls in two straight Finals in 1997 and 1998. However, he gave it one last shot during the 2004 championship. He joined the Los Angeles Lakers, led by Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. Consequently, disappointment arrived when the Pistons stunned the heavily favored Lakers in five games.

Malone retired after 19 seasons and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010. The Jazz retired his jersey in 2006. Then, they commemorated him and John Stockton with bronze statues outside Vivint Arena (formerly EnergySolutions Arena).

Life After Basketball

Malone coached at his alma mater and for the Jazz for a while. He also owns several businesses, but he prioritizes his family first. After some controversy and paternity suits, Malone reconciled with his children from two women he knew during the 1980s. He married to Kay Kinsey in 1990 and has four children. Son K.J. played football at Louisiana State University for a while. Later, he transitioned to coaching, which was how those victory cigars ended up in the locker room after the championship.

Deer hunting and fishing also take up plenty of his time. He entered the cigar world after traveling to the Dominican Republic several times. He learned the process of cigar making and worked with Master Blender Manuel Inoa to create his own blend. Malone’s cigars are aged in rum barrels and have spicy aromatic notes. They are as dynamic and complex as the man who made them.

Malone is a long way from the court. Many patrons of his Legends Cigar and Vape in Ralston, Louisiana, know him simply as Karl, a hunter. Malone co-owns the shop and lounge with Kadee, but he’s the first to admit she runs the show. The Mailman prefers to kick back and enjoy friends, family, and a fine cigar.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Ed Reed Hall of Famer and Cigar Lover

Posted on February 14, 2023 by Staff

Most people think of the Baltimore Ravens as a dominant defense, like Ray Lewis. However, Ed Reed is a close second. The all-pro safety is not just a hard-hitting ball hawk. He’s a true brother of the leaf.

Reed’s story begins in small-town Louisiana, where he starred in multiple sports. He has said that Michael Jordan was his first hero and a model for excellence. Seeing Jordan celebrating NBA championships with a cigar in hand also had an influence.

Reed is no stranger to the victory cigar. He led the University of Miami to a National Championship and would win the Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens. He started smoking in college, where he and roommate Reggie Wayne, another future NFL star, took the edge off with a cheap smoke. Reed would settle with a cigar and review game film during his final year as a Hurricane. Here’s a look at the man, whom many consider the best safety of all time, a man as dedicated to football as he is to cigars.

Ed Reed’s Beginnings

Not everyone from such humble beginnings ends up in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Growing up near New Orleans, Reed was the second of five boys. When he saw he had a chance at the NFL, he buckled down, avoided trouble, and dedicated himself to football. While Lewis and his future NFL teammates on the Ravens were winning the Super Bowl, Reed was a two-time consensus All-American at “The U” and helped the Miami Hurricanes win the National Championship in 2001.

Ed Reed and the NFL

The Ravens drafted Reed in the first round in 2002. He quickly became a starter and began building a Hall of Fame career. Reed played eleven seasons with the Ravens collecting 64 interceptions; seven returned for touchdowns. Reed forced 11 fumbles and returned punts, but he still holds the record for the longest interception returns for a touchdown- 107 yards.

Reed was named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the year in 2004, recording 62 tackles and nine interceptions. However, playing in the AFC against Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, getting to a Super Bowl proved difficult. After several great playoff runs, Reed and the Ravens finally achieved the ultimate goal, winning Super Bowl XLVII in 2013.

The game, sometimes called the “Har-bowl” (because it pitted coaching brothers Jim and John Harbaugh against each other), is also known as the “Blackout Bowl.” The Ravens held a healthy lead before a partial blackout delayed play for over half an hour. The 49ers mounted a comeback, led by Colin Kaepernick, but the Ravens held on to win. Reed had five tackles and an interception and finally had the chance to hoist the Lombardi trophy.

Reed retired in 2015 and became a Pro Football Hall of Famer in 2019, the first year he was eligible. Before taking the stage at the ceremony, Reed can be seen with a large cigar perched between his lips.

Cigar Life and Life After Football

Although he was named to the NFL 100 Greatest list and New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick has come right out and said it, Reed shies from the suggestion that he is the greatest safety ever. He insists that football is a team game. That is why he has always appreciated the camaraderie of being a cigar smoker.

Reed has come a long way since smoking economy cigars during his college days. He has cultivated his tastes over the years favoring Plasencias, and Fuentes Opus X. Long intrigued by the process of cigar-making, Reed started exploring the cigar world when planning life after football. He has visited several factories to get an in-depth look -from field to factory- at the cigar-making process. The fascination inspired him to start his line of cigars. The “ER” cigar line has been in the works for some time and will soon hit the market.

Reed is not just a football player. He has given back to the community since the early days of his playing career. He started the Ed Reed Foundation over 20 years ago to provide guidance to underprivileged youth in Baltimore and his hometown New Orleans.

Football is still a massive part of his life. Reed coached defensive backs for the Buffalo Bills in 2016 and served as the University of Miami’s football chief of staff from 2020-22. He made headlines when he was hired to coach Bethune-Cookman University’s football team. When the HBCU did not ratify his contract, Reed criticized the conditions at the school. He later apologized.

If Reed is anything, he is passionate about social justice, football, and cigars.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Five Professional Wrestlers Who Smoke Cigars

Posted on November 10, 2021 by Staff

Professional wrestlers have demanding schedules on the road and hard. They must maintain consistent workout routines to stay in shape and perform physical acts in the ring. So, it’s no wonder professional wrestlers turn to cigars to unwind and relax during their downtime. After taking bumps in the ring, these five wrestlers enjoy an excellent stick outside the squared circle.

Vince McMahon

Chairperson and CEO of WWE, Vince McMahon, is notorious for hating people that smell cigarette smoke. So, it’s a little surprising to see him on the cover of the 1999 November-December issue of Cigar Aficionado. In the issue, he says his interest in cigars started when he saw Dr. Jerry Graham as a kid. He also mentions smoking Davidoff Double R. “That’s about all I smoke,” McMahon reportedly says. McMahon was born to Capitol Wrestling Corporation promoter Vincent J. McMahon, but he didn’t meet his father until age 12.

His first appearance in professional wrestling was in Worldwide Wrestling Federation’s All-Star Wrestling when he served as an in-ring announcer. He continued working with McMahon Sr. until 1982 when he took over for his sick father. A few years later, McMahon came up with WrestleMania in New York’s Madison Square Garden. The annual event brings in millions of views from around the world. After that, McMahon had few competitors on television. Eventually, he acquired the two most prominent rival organizations: World Championship Wrestling and Extreme Championship Wrestling. Today, he remains involved with WWE — often running the show from behind the curtain.

John Cena

John Cena is a 16-time world champion in WWE. Besides enjoying the spotlight, he also enjoys cigars.

One of Cena’s top taunts is when he waves his hand in front of his face, saying, “You can’t see me!” but gives a small tour of his “gentlemen’s room” for muscleandfitness.com. He makes it clear it’s not a man cave. Besides wrestling, the former “Doctor of Thuganomics” can be seen in the DC Comics movie adaptation of The Suicide Squad as Peacemaker with a rumored spinoff in the mix. As far as specifics on which cigars Cena enjoys, details are sparse. He declines to comment on his favorites (maybe he’s holding out for an endorsement deal?).

Cody Rhodes

Professional wrestler Cody Rhodes is the son of the renowned “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes. He’s also the half-brother of Dustin Runnels, AKA Goldust. Cody Rhodes has held 14 championships in several wrestling promotions, including WWE, and served as executive vice president of All Elite Wrestling. In 2018, he teamed up with fellow AEW professional wrestlers Frankie Kazarian and Sam Leccia of Leccia Tobacco to start his cigar brand, American Rebel Cigars.

Jesse “The Body” Ventura

Former governor of Minnesota Jesse Ventura first started his career as a professional wrestler in 1975 after his service in the Navy. He received the ring name Jesse “The Body” Ventura from AWA wrestler Verne Gagne. Ventura performed in the square circle using the gimmick of a California beach-bod weight lifter as a heel (a “bad guy” that would often rile up the crowd). Throughout his career, he would go up against other professional wrestlers, Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka and “The Immortal” Hulk Hogan, before moving on to ringside commentary.

Aside from wrestling, Ventura was also in the movie “Predator” with the former governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, another famous cigar smoker who became close friends. In the political ring, he was mayor of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, from 1991 to 1995, and he won the gubernatorial race in 1999, becoming the 38th governor of Minnesota until 2003. In July-August 2000 piece he wrote for Cigar Aficionado, he mentions Cuban cigars as his favorite smoke. He was allegedly sent a box of Cuban Romeo y Julieta cigars from Jeb Bush after a governor’s meeting at the White House.

Terri Runnels

In the professional wrestling industry, Terri Runnels is known for her managerial or valet expertise more than as an in-ring competitor. Yet, she held the title of WWE Hardcore Champion for about 10 seconds before losing it to Stevie Richards. She started doing makeup for Jim Crockett Promotions in the wrestling business before Ted Turner acquired it and rebranded it to WCW.

When Runnels made her debut, she was known as Alexandra York, manager of the York Foundation. Yet, when she moved to WWE, she wanted to combine her real-life love of cigars with her wrestling manager persona. So, Runnels rebranded herself as Marlena, a cigar-smoking seductress. She based her new persona on a former Hollywood actress, Marlene Dietrich.

Runnels also managed her then-husband Dustin “Goldust” Runnels and would approach the ring with a lit cigar. In one interview, she says she would smoke Rocky Patel cigars at the ringside. Still, she also loves Padron, Davidoff, and Avo. After leaving the ring, Runnels also hosted her podcast “Cigars, Scars, and Superstars.”

Photo credit: “Vince McMahon (Dec 2008),” by Sgt. DaleAnne Maxwell (Photo Courtesy of U.S. Army), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

Yahya McClain: Boxing World Champion to Cigar Buff

Posted on September 4, 2021 by Staff

Yahya McClain (born John McClain in 1967) has crammed a whole lot of living into his slightly more than half a century walk on this earth. Yahya is a two-time boxing world champion – once as a light heavyweight and once as a cruiserweight. Following his boxing career as a fighter, McClain trained and then later married Laila Ali, the daughter of arguably the greatest boxing world champion of all time, Muhammad Ali. Currently the CEO of YES Filmworks, Inc., McClain has spent the past three decades in the entertainment industry as a promoter, manager and producer. Many of his unfiltered escapades are chronicled in his 2013 autobiography “And Still: The Memoirography of Yahya McClain“.

If you see McClain these days, it’s usually with a lit cigar in his mouth. The guy just loves his cigars. Cigar Life Guy was able to catch up with McClain and chat a bit at Highland Cigar Co. in Atlanta where both hold memberships and tend to hold court most afternoons.

Boxing World Champion Yahya on Gratitude

Cigar Life Guy: Boxing has changed since you were coming up and so has the world. Would you recommend a young person today box?

Yahya McCain: I would most definitely recommend boxing because of all the great things it has done for me. The lifestyle it has afforded me and my family. I’ve been all over the world because of boxing. Made millions of dollars and had all the toys. The discipline that boxing instills in a person can be useful throughout a person’s entire life.

CLG: What advice would you give someone looking at getting started boxing?

YM: Find yourself a teacher of the art of boxing and not just a coach or some guy hollering at kids in the gym. Find someone that is passionate about what they do. When you do find that vetted, tested, and proven teacher; and if you are welcomed into his fold, please respect him, and listen to him. Do as he says and trust the process.

CLG: If you could change one thing in professional boxing what would it be?

YM: I would make it so that no matter who the fighter is or what race the fighter is if the guy loses a fight give him a rematch. Don’t make him wait years. If that fighter gets in the ring, puts fans in the stands or has the fans that happen to see him fight and start screaming and yelling because of his or her performance, well then, that fighter should keep being showcased on the main stage. Win, lose or draw. Don’t exile a fighter that loses a close fight.

Muhammad Ali was a Genuine Man

CLG: You had a chance to know a side of Muhammad Ali that many did not. What are one or two things about Muhammad Ali the person that the public didn’t get a chance to see?

YM: First, he was always on 100 until the moment went to sleep. He loved and would entertain groups large or small. Second, his plan from the beginning of his career was to use his fame and celebrity to do his part in helping this world to be a better place for all human beings.

Cigars Offer a Connection to Family

CLG: When did you start smoking cigars?

YM: I started smoking cigars for real in 1999 or 2000. It was when I retired. But prior to that my grandfather used to smoke cigars every day since I was a baby. He used to cut our hair and he always had a cigar hanging in his mouth and his breath stunk so bad. Who knew years later I would be an avid cigar smoker? He also played golf, he had a picture hanging in his barbershop of him and Joe Louis playing golf together with a cigar in his hand. Again, who knew? God had it to where he allowed me the opportunity to play golf with my grandfather and we smoked a cigar together before he died.

Cigars Make Traffic More Tolerable

The way that I really got hooked on cigars was due to that 405 freeway in Los Angeles. Man, the traffic is so bad and I had to commute from the Valley to LA Boxing gym to train Laila Ali. The gym was near the airport so I was done with that traffic. Then one day I said let me try to calm my nerves with this cigar. So I lit it up and smoked in my Benz for the first time and the next thing I knew I was at home. That’s the day I became an official cigar aficionado. At that point I was hooked. Cigars are a part of who I am. I’m known for my hats, cigars, and boxing.

CLG: What do you enjoy most about smoking cigars?

YM: I love the way a cigar smells when it’s being smoked especially if I’m smoking it. But I really love the calming cool sensation you get from it. The other big benefits are the lifestyle and the great people you get to meet and form relationships with, people from around the world!

CLG: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a friend or someone that is just starting to smoke cigars?

YM: My advice to new cigar smokers is start with a Perdomo or something along those lines and skip the chocolate, wine, and tasty cigars [Editor’s note: skip the flavored cigars]. I mean at least try a real one first.

The Boxing World Champion is Not Done

CLG: What’s next for “The Champ?” Any professional projects we should be looking out for soon?

YM: Related to boxing, I’m a ring announcer and a boxing referee. Outside of boxing I have several creative projects. I’m writing every day. I have a feature film about baby mama drama, and I have the first season of 10 episodes of a spin-off tv show written as well. Both the film and the tv series have a female lead that is fighting for fathers’ rights!

You know, I am really enjoying life to the fullest these days. My wife, my kids, my whole family, my mom, my brothers, I mean I’m blessed. We are living the dream and staying out the way!

CLG: Thanks Yahya, some good stuff!

Follow Yahya McClain on Instagram at @thevoicechamp

Photo Credit: Yahya McClain

Basketball Great Julius Erving Enjoys Cigars

Posted on May 31, 2021 by Staff

Few can claim not to know the name Julius Erving, who also goes by “Dr. J.” He is one of the greatest ever to hit the hardwood on the basketball court. However, you may not know that Erving is a big fan of cigars and smoking around good company.

Erving loves a good conversation with friends while enjoying a smoke, especially if he’s talking about the NBA today. So, you’ll often find him around one of Atlanta’s many cigar lounges.

He’s in good company with NBA stars like Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and LeBron James. All of these guys seem to know a thing or two about cigars and winning.

Julius Erving’s Early Days

Erving received his nickname from a high school friend. He grew up in Roosevelt, New York, where he attended Roosevelt High School. He would get his start playing on the high school basketball team here.

Erving went on to play college basketball at the University of Massachusetts, where he quickly became a standout athlete. He enrolled in 1968 and played two seasons with the school. Yet, during those two seasons, he averaged 26.3 points per game and 20.2 rebounds per game. It was a record that only five other players in NCAA basketball history have managed.

In 1971, Erving left college early to play for the former American Basketball Association. At the time, teams weren’t allowed to draft athletes until they were four years removed from college basketball. Thanks to a hardship rule, Erving gained eligibility.

Erving first played for the Virginia Squires team. During that time, he gained a reputation as a ferocious player for his dunking and rebounding skills. Yet, Erving led the league in offensive rebounds. He also made the All-Star team during his rookie year and placed second for rookie of the year. He later led his team to the Eastern Division Finals before losing seven games.

Erving later played one more season for the Squires. Then, thanks to a contract dispute that kept him from being drafted, he scored a career-high 31.9 points per game.

The ABA/NBA Merger

Erving later played for one more team in the ABA – the New York Nets. His performance was impressive. He ranked in the top ten of the ABA in multiple categories and led the team to the final ABA championship.

Erving’s performance was legendary. It painted the Nets as one of the standout teams in the ABA. It also was one of the reasons the Nets came in during the ABA/NBA merger in 1976.

Julius Erving 76ers Trade

Julius Erving is widely known for his career with the Philadelphia 76ers. Yet, one of the reasons for his popularity isn’t because of his phenomenal skills. After the merger, the Nets were set to dominate the new NBA with Erving as their star player. Unfortunately, a pay dispute, followed by legal disputes with the New York Knicks and several lousy trade deals, landed Erving on the 76ers; these resulted in the Nets ranking last in the entire NBA.

Erving quickly grew as an integral part of his new team. While playing alongside current and future basketball greats, he gained star status. He later played for the 76ers, where he accomplished many feats. That included his famous Baseline Move. It was a behind-the-backboard, finger-roll layup. His impressive moves, combined with leading the league with game points, two ABA championships, and an NBA championship, are why many consider him one of the best.

Julius Erving Post-Career Cigar Lifestyle

After retiring in 1986, Erving became something of a businessman. He held many interests, including joining the board of directors of Converse Shoes. He also sponsored a NASCAR team and joined a golf club, among other ventures.

When he’s not busy with business or analyzing sports, Julius Erving enjoys smoking cigars with other cigar enthusiasts. His preferences vary, but he is known to smoke some of the finest cigars. Erving is a fan of a particular shop near his home in suburban Atlanta. Rumor holds that he even has a cigar locker at a high-end shop.

Erving’s business ventures keep him traveling all over the place. Yet, he still finds time to relax and smoke cigars wherever he’s at. When smoking, he prefers to pair a good stick with a nice drink while talking with fellow smokers. Conversations usually revolve around basketball’s current state and its key players.

Erving exemplifies the cigar lifestyle, good smokes, and company in a relaxing atmosphere. Not one to smoke for the sake of it, Erving also likes to take things slow and enjoy the flavor. We can’t say the right way to enjoy a cigar, but we recommend this prescription from Dr. J.

Photo credit: “Julius Erving in 1981 performing a slam dunk against the Atlanta Hawks at en: Omni Coliseum.,” by Jim Accordino, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY 2.0.

Football Legend Michael Strahan is a Cigar Lover

Posted on April 23, 2021 by Staff

You probably know this record-holding New York Giant for being one of the best defensive ends in the game. Yet, it might surprise you that football legend Michael Strahan is a big cigar fan. When he’s not on TV, one of Strahan’s notable quotes is saying that a good cigar is something he can’t live without.

Strahan has gone so far as to build himself a luxurious, cigar-friendly “man cave.” Here, he relaxes and gets away from his busy schedule. It even includes a custom, refrigerator-sized humidor. According to Strahan, his favorite way to decompress is to sit in his man cave and “do nothing” for a while; this generally translates to smoking a great cigar and watching television to unwind.

From Young Upstart to Football Legend

Before the football legend lived the cigar lifestyle alongside up-and-coming NFL greats like Cam Newton, he was a typical college athlete. He played defensive end at Texas Southern University while following in the footsteps of his Uncle Art.

During his time at Texas Southern, Strahan began turning heads. He had an imposing frame and was deceptively quick. By his Junior year, he became the frequent target of double-team coverage. It was a term dubbed by his coaches as “Strahan rules.”

Strahan was named player of the year twice as part of the South Western Athletic Conference. During his Junior year, he led the conference in sacks. His career record of 41 sacks still stands as a Texas Southern University Record.

Going Pro and Rough Starts

In 1993 Strahan was drafted to the New York Giants. His first year was unremarkable. He played only six games due to injuries. Although he continued playing, his first few seasons with the Giants proved less than stellar.

It wasn’t until his 1997 season that Strahan broke away from this reputation. He showed the NFL and fans why he was one of the best in the business and a true football legend in the making. He ended the season with 14 sacks and made his first Pro Bowl that year.

His 98′ season was even more impressive. Strahan recorded 15 sacks and another Pro Bowl nomination. From here, he continued his success. In 2001, he set the NFL record for most sacks in a single season.

On February 3, 2008, Strahan took his team through the win Super Bowl XLII. They beat the New England Patriots in what was widely considered one of their biggest upsets. Following the Super Bowl win, Strahan retired from playing professional football. Instead, the football legend moved on to other endeavors.

Post-NFL Career Change and Cigar Lifestyle

Post-NFL life did not leave Strahan out of the spotlight. It’s hard not to find him appearing on television somewhere. Between becoming a morning talk show host, a game show host, and a sports analyst, he stays busy. But that’s why Strahan says he loves the time he sits back and enjoys a cigar.

Strahan says the first cigar that captured his tastebuds was a Cohiba. From then on, he felt at home smoking cigars. Nowadays, he has his favorites. You’ll find him smoking sticks like Gurkhas, Padrons, and Olivas. Yet, he’s also open to experimenting with whatever his friends in the cigar business send him.

Never one to shy away from work, Strahan admits that he likes to get away to his secret hideout at least once or twice a week. It’s a way for him to muffle the noise of the city. It also gives him the perfect reason to enjoy a cigar in private since he spends so much time on air.

What’s Next For the Football Legend?

Today, the football legend stays busy with all his television appearances. Yet, he still has time for other activities. In addition to smoking great sticks, Strahan also collects cigars. He’s also into cars and a handful of different hobbies.

When he’s not in the news, Strahan stays busy with philanthropic work. He supports organizations like St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and serves as an ad campaign spokesperson.

Strahan is busy building his branded clothing and accessories line. That includes men’s apparel, suits, and shoes. So chances are, even if you aren’t seeing or hearing him, you might find yourself wearing clothing by Strahan.

Truthfully, it looks like Strahan is going nowhere soon. As a mainstay on the morning talk show Good Morning America, he is in many people’s living rooms five days a week. Add to that his roles as a sports analyst for Fox Sports and host of the game show $100,000 Pyramid, and it’s easy to see the many places you’ll find Strahan in the spotlight each week.

Strahan continues making cameos in movies and television as well. In addition, he’s had his share of more minor roles in the acting world. Whether you’re a fan of this Giant football legend or not, one thing is sure. You’ll continue seeing more of him.

Photo credit: “Fox Pregame for Super Bowl LIV,” by Elisfkc2, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 2.0.

WWE Champ John Cena Enjoys Cigars

Posted on April 16, 2021 by Staff

It’s hard to imagine a thirteen-time WWE Champion has time for leisure activities. Yet, when he’s home in his custom-designed gentleman’s room, John Cena loves hanging with his guys and smoking cigars. Of course, he’s not the only athlete or movie star to enjoy the cigar life. The WWE champ has plenty of peers, such as big-screen heavyweights like Kevin Hart and rapper and movie star Ludacris, to name a few.

Part of Cena’s enjoyment of cigars stems from his strong family bond. Cena has four brothers. Together, they spend time talking shop, relaxing, and smoking in his gentleman’s room. He believes in keeping the space purely for his enjoyment and entertaining friends. The word is, it’s even password-protected to protect his and his guest’s privacy.

From Football to Wrestling

Cena was born and raised in West Newbury, Massachusetts. He’s the man whom others would later refer to as “one of the greatest wrestlers of all time.” Yet, Cena led a rather unassuming life up through his teenage years.

He eventually attended Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts. There, Cena played Division III football and became an All-American at the center position. He later moved on to bodybuilding in 1998. He may have even found inspiration from legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger. Regardless, he moved to California and worked out regularly.

After a year of bodybuilding, Cena tried his hand at professional wrestling and found success. He quickly moved through the development program of the former WWF before getting his first shot at the big time.

The Doctor of Thuganomics

Cena debuted in 2004 as a trash-talking, sarcastic, and sometimes foul-mouthed rapper nicknamed “The Doctor of Thuganomics.” His brash persona, in-ring theatrics, and impressive physical ability saw him quickly rise through the ranks. He attained his first title shot for the “United States Championship” within a year of his debut.

He also developed his signature catchphrase: “You can’t see me.” He also produced a platinum-selling rap album with the same title. The audience praised Cena’s debut persona for its no-nonsense gimmick, slightly edgy moves, and off-the-cuff remarks and insults.

Cena’s popularity grew over the next year, and he went on to win his first World Championship. It was then that the modern interpretation of John Cena began.

Franchise Player and Star Status

By late 2005, Cena’s character transitioned to what it is today. He is the upstanding “Superman” figure that everyone loves. Although some fans didn’t appreciate the abrupt transition, many tout his work ethic. In 2006, before he returned to the WWE, Cena landed his first movie role in The Marine.

It was then that he became the face of the WWE. In fact, Cena went on to win the “World Championship” several times. During that time, he had many feuds with some of the biggest names in the business. During this time, his philanthropy work also took off.

One of Cena’s admirable distinctions is that he granted the most wishes ever – over 650 – for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. In addition, he collaborates with various charities like the USO and many others local to Massachusetts and across the globe while working with the WWE.

The WWE Champ Values His Privacy

John Cena prefers to keep his private life just that, private. So, despite his admirable but busy schedule, Cena still likes to unwind at home with a good cigar and company.

The cigar lounge nicknamed the “Gentleman’s Room“ in Cena’s multimillion-dollar mansion was reportedly custom-built to house his smokes and other favorite pastimes. In particular, he likes watching football, drinking scotch, and smoking cigars. Yet, there is a wrong and a right way to drink and smoke. After all, what’s a good cigar without the right pairing of alcohol?

So, what lavishness awaits guests inside the “Gentleman’s Room”? The room’s walls are lined with cedar, complementing the leather chairs and sofa. He has two custom walk-in humidors and air filtration systems installed to prevent cigar smoke from entering the house’s main living spaces. If that weren’t enough, the smoking room would be locked, with access gained only by permission or invitation.

WWE champ John Cena is clear that he prefers fine cigars. So, it’s no surprise that he is rumored to keep some of the most expensive ones on the market. Though, exactly which ones those are, he won’t say. His preference for finer things doesn’t stop here, though, and extends to his other primary hobby: muscle cars. It is reported that Cena owns more than 20 muscle cars – some are rumored as exceedingly rare and expensive.

What’s Next for the WWE Champ?

You’ll probably continue seeing more of WWE champ John Cena. Although he’s not entering the wrestling ring as often, he continues to busy himself with movie-making. Add to that his multiple commercials, all running simultaneously, his TV hosting gigs, and charity work; the result? John Cena is visible somewhere every day.

Cena will continue in the spotlight for a long time to come. Even if he’s not adjusting the attitude of WWE’s finest, you’ll still find him on screens large and small. You might even say the champ is here to stay.

Photo credit: “John Cena at a WWE house show in January 2015,” by Anton Jackson, Wikimedia Commns license CC BY-SA 2.0.

Cigar Lover and Baseball Heavy Hitter: Alex Rodriguez

Posted on March 6, 2021 by Staff

Alex Rodriguez was consistently one of the best shortstops and third basemen throughout his 22-year baseball career. Today, though, A-Rod is known as more of a businessman than an athlete. He has been one of the most controversial figures in baseball. Part of that was from his involvement in a performance-enhancing drug scandal. Yet, some of it was due to him having some of the highest-recorded salary numbers in baseball history. When he’s not striking deals or appearing as a regular on any number of T.V. shows nowadays, A-Rod enjoys cigars. According to him, he became a cigar lover who enjoys a good smoke after playing a round of golf with Michael Jordan.

A Kid From Miami Hits the Big Time

He intended to attend college and play football as a quarterback. Yet, by the time he was 17, young Rodriguez was already being shopped around by some top teams in the business. Then, a last-minute offer by the Seattle Mariners made him change his mind about attending the University of Miami to play football. So instead, Rodriguez headed off to Washington.

As the number one overall pick in the 1993 draft, the Mariners and critics had high hopes for Rodriguez. Instead, he would spend his first two years outperforming most of his peers in the minor leagues. Then he would take over as the Mariner’s full-time shortstop in ’96.

In Rodriguez’s first year out, he set or tied multiple records, including becoming the youngest shortstop to play in an All-Star game.

It would be the start of his rise as one of the youngest stars in the game.

A Cigar Lover is Born

By the 2000 season, Rodriguez was Seattle’s face of the franchise. He later led them to the American League Championship Series, where they ultimately lost to the New York Yankees. Yet, by this point, Rodriguez’s stock was already rising.

During this time, he recalled falling in love with cigars thanks to a Hoyo de Monterrey Double Carona given to him by Michael Jordan. Rodriguez even remarked about the trouble finding more of them later.

From then, Rodriguez enjoyed a smoke any time he could. The newly found cigar lover would even smoke while lounging by the pool when everyone else was asleep.

He spent the next few seasons with the Texas Rangers. He signed one of the most lucrative contracts in baseball history at $252 million. This contract led Rodriguez to a dose of significant criticism. Critics considered the amount of money spent on him too much when other team areas, namely pitching, were suffering.

Rodriguez spent only three years with the Rangers. Then, he was optioned off to the Yankees in 2004 in a last-minute trade arrangement.

Becoming a Yankee with Controversy

A-Rod would spend the bulk of his career with the Yankees. He also switched from playing shortstop to playing third base. This change was primarily due to baseball great Derek Jeter already holding that position.

During his first season as a Yankee, Rodriguez was already drawing attention. During the 2004 American League Championship Series, he purposely swatted away the glove of an opposing player; This resulted in an interference call and a nullified run from Derek Jeter. Unfortunately, it also led the team to lose and get knocked out of the series.

His next round of controversy came in 2007. He opted out of renewing his contract with the Yankees on the advice of his manager. That was after he had already stated he would stay with the team for the rest of his career.

Though, Rodriguez went on to win the World Series in 2009 with the Yankees. But that was before being caught up in yet another scandal. This time, it was with performance-enhancing drugs, and Rodriguez tested positive for use. After his subsequent suspension and return, Rodriguez’s career looked much different than in prior years. So, he retired in 2016.

Modern Entrepreneur and Cigar Lover

Outside of baseball, Rodriguez has become an outspoken businessman and baseball analyst known for his direct but down-to-earth style.

He is the owner and founder of A-Rod Corp. This holding company now owns dozens of products and Rodriguez’s investments in endeavors. One of these personal endeavors included Rodriguez’s attempt to buy the New York Mets in 2019.

You’ll find Rodriguez behind the commentator’s desk for networks like Fox Sports and ESPN when he’s not running multiple businesses or doing charity work. He often lights up a cigar in the commentator’s booth before or after a game to relax.

Besides his career as a sports analyst, Rodriguez also appears on shows like Shark Tank and Good Morning America as a special contributor.

When he’s not busy, Rodriguez enjoys playing golf and smoking great cigars, a trait he shares with his fiance and business partner, Jennifer Lopez. So whether you think he’s one of the greatest to play the game or overpaid and overrated, you’ll likely see more of A-Rod in the future.

Photo credit: “A-Rod Makes Contact,” by Googie Man, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 3.0.

Charles Barkley: NBA Legend Who Loves Cigars

Posted on February 20, 2021 by Staff

You probably know Charles Barkley best for his days on the court with one of several teams. Or, perhaps you’re more familiar with him behind a desk commentating on basketball games. Yet, you might not know that he’s as big a fan of cigars as basketball. That’s right. The former 76er and often infamously outspoken Sir Charles is a lover of fine cigars. But, of course, he’s in good company, too, with fellow NBA stars like Michael Jordan and Lebron James.

Charles Barkley: The Early Years

Before charging across the court like a man half his size, Barkley was just a kid from Leeds, Alabama. After a tumultuous childhood, Barkley would pay to play basketball at the local recreation center. But unfortunately, he was too small and uncoordinated to make his high school’s varsity team.

As luck had it, the summer after his junior year, Barkley grew six inches, stood 6’ 4”, and weighed over 200 lbs. The high school basketball coach immediately granted him a spot on the team. From there, he went on to attend Auburn University in Alabama.

At Auburn University, he developed his skills and led the SEC in rebounds each year while earning nicknames. Some called him The Round Mound of Rebound or The Crisco Kid for his issues with his weight. Since then, he has become one of the most athletic big men in the NBA, but Barkley didn’t stop there.

The Philadelphia 76ers later drafted him as the fifth pick in the 1984 draft. Here is where Barkley gained widespread notoriety and fame.

Barkley’s Brash and Outspoken Personality

Today, Charles Barkley is known for his lighthearted jabs and off-the-cuff remarks. That’s especially true for fellow NBA star Shaquille O’Neal. When Barkley began his career, however, the story was different. Back then, he became known for a particularly aggressive play style that often resulted in contact with opposing players; This included several on-court brawls, one of which landed him a record-setting fine in 1990.

Barkley’s most significant incident involved a fan hurling insults and racial slurs at him. When Barkley caught wind of the offenses, he spat at the fan and inadvertently hit a little girl. He received a fine and suspension for his action. Barkley later made amends with the girl and her family. He also credited the incident for teaching him to play the game correctly and with more respect.

Despite all his negative publicity, Barkley played for the United States twice in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics. He received gold medals both times. Barkley is also a two-time Hall of Fame inductee. One of his inductions was for recognition as an individual player. The other induction was from when he played on the “Dream Team” during his time in the Olympics.

Charles Barkley and the Cigar Lifestyle

Throughout his basketball career, Barkley won many awards. He also played successfully for two other teams: the Phoenix Suns and the Houston Rockets. His retirement in 2000 slowed the multi-time All-Star down. Although, he continues philanthropic work and has become a role model to kids across the country.

In his downtime, Barkley likes two things, in particular: golf and cigars. He often smokes three to four cigars a day. When he “decides to light up,” you’ll find him puffing away on a Cuban Churchill while teeing up for a swing.

Barkley claims he began smoking after watching his former rival and friend, Michael Jordan puffing away every time they met. From there, Barkley tried his first cigar and liked it. After that, Jordan became his cigar teacher and had him smoking lower-tier cigars until Barkley moved up to the Cubans he favors today.

If asked about it, Barkley says that he learned two from Jordan. First, the process of smoking a cigar is to learn to enjoy the smoke itself. Second, “always have two humidors,” one for smokers who know what they’re doing and one for those who don’t. This philosophy taught Barkley to enjoy his cigar lifestyle as a way to relax and unwind rather than smoke for the sake of smoking.

Barkley reportedly possesses four humidors and is a collector and smoker. He favors Cuban cigars like the Churchills he often smokes. Yet, he also likes hand-crafted Padron Cigars. Barkley is fond of the idea of treating cigars well. He always stores his premium cigars properly and enjoys each one.

Barkley is Still Making Waves

Since his retirement, Barkley has done a good deal of civic work. He mentors kids and speaks on behalf of the National Basketball Players Association. Yet, he also does endorsements for products and other promotions.

Today, you’ll still find Barkley as a color commentator for the TNT network’s coverage of basketball games. He also continues to enjoy making light of his former teammates and fellow players regularly. So undoubtedly, everyone will see plenty more of this former kid from Leeds, Alabama.

Photo Credit: “Charles Barkley at 2019 NBA Finals,” by Chensiyuan, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 4.0.