“If I played against Cam Newton, I'd put a hit on him”: When Charles Barkley made his intentions clear on facing the 2015 NFL MVP

In a blast from the past, Charles Barkley made headlines with his fiery comments about Cam Newton back in 2015. Known for his unfiltered opinions, the outspoken TNT commentator didn't hold back when discussing how he would handle facing the 2015 NFL MVP on the gridiron.

“If I played against Cam Newton, I’d put a hit on him, no question,” Barkley declared on ‘The Dan Patrick Show’.

“They rub it in pretty good. It’s fun to watch as a fan if you like Carolina. But if you’re dabbing, Superman-ing, and kicking my butt, I’m going to get the players together and say, ‘The first guy who can hit that guy and take him out — we got to get rid of him,’” added Barkley. [02:40]

He also dived into the controversial topic of Newton's popularity, dismissing claims that race played a significant role. There’s no doubt in Barkley’s love for sports and the competitive edge that comes with it.

Also read: "Auburn sucks": Texans QB C.J. Stroud destroys Cam Newton with "Alabama owns it" remark as Ohio State becomes center of discussion

Was Cam Newton paid by Auburn Tigers to play for them?

This burning question had haunted college football fans for a year in 2010 when Newton transitioned from Blinn College in Texas to the Auburn Tigers to play under head coach Gene Chizik. Rumors were ripe that his father tried to orchestrate a ‘pay for play’ situation to the tune of $180,000.

The controversy cast a shadow over Newton's stellar college career. However, after a thorough 13-month investigation, the NCAA cleared Auburn of any wrongdoing.

Newton once pointed fingers at former college football coach Dan Mullen and his wife, accusing them of spreading the damaging rumors about him playing for money.

Newton went to the length of accusing Mullen of ruining his career at Auburn, leading to him being declared ineligible twice in November 2010.

Also read: "They are ready to win right now, they just need me": 2010 Heisman winner Cam Newton speaks on reason behind choosing Auburn over Mississippi State