The long-standing tension between Markieff and Marcus Morris and Nikola Jokic just escalated—this time, outside the basketball court. In a bold and unexpected twist, the Morris twins have publicly challenged the Jokic brothers to a boxing match, reigniting a feud that first exploded during a heated game in 2021.

Appearing recently on “The Big Podcast with Shaq,” the former Mavericks and Lakers forwards didn’t hold back. Markieff, who once absorbed a brutal shove from Jokic, is now offering a chance to settle the beef with gloves instead of fouls.

“The bigger they are, the harder they fall,” said Markieff Morris. “We big too. I’m 6’10″, 270—it ain’t like I’m a small guy.”

With that comment, the challenge was issued—and the NBA world is buzzing.

The Origin of the Feud: A 2021 Collision That Shook the NBA

This beef dates back to November 2021, when Markieff Morris—then with the Miami Heat—delivered a hard foul on Nikola Jokic at midcourt. Jokic, frustrated by the hit, responded immediately and forcefully, slamming into Morris from behind, sending him sprawling to the floor.

The incident earned Jokic a suspension and sparked league-wide debate about retaliation and sportsmanship. But the consequences for Morris were more serious: he missed several months with whiplash and neck injuries.

From there, the personal jabs began flying—not just between the players, but between their families.

The Jokic Brothers: Formidable, Fierce, and Not to Be Toyed With

Nikola Jokic, the three-time NBA MVP, is known for his calm demeanor on the court—but his brothers, Nemanja and Strahinja Jokic, have a different reputation entirely.

Strahinja Jokic, in particular, has become a viral sensation during Nuggets games, often spotted courtside towering behind the bench, looking more like a UFC enforcer than an NBA spectator. He has a background in MMA, adding a level of seriousness to any potential confrontation.

Nemanja Jokic, the middle brother, also has a history in sports and has previously been seen stepping up to defend Nikola on social media and in public.

These aren’t just basketball fans. These are 6-foot-plus, trained, and fiercely loyal brothers—and they’ve made it clear that disrespecting their youngest sibling won’t go unanswered.

Boxing Over MMA: The Morris Twins Draw Their Line

On Shaquille O’Neal’s podcast, when Shaq pointed out that Strahinja is trained in MMA, the Morris twins made it clear—they’re not crazy.

“As long as it’s boxing,” Marcus Morris emphasized. “We ain’t tryna go in no cage with them boys.”

Markieff chimed in again with his now-viral quote:

“Yeah, the bigger they are, the harder they fall.”

This wasn’t just podcast banter. The tone was serious. The twins, both longtime enforcers in the league, seem ready to bring their physicality to the ring if the Jokic brothers are game.

The NBA’s Most Unique Off-Court Rivalry

What makes this feud so fascinating is how rare it is in today’s NBA. Most rivalries are media-driven or fizzle out after a few passive-aggressive tweets. But this is raw, personal, and has the makings of a genuine grudge match.

There’s the unforgettable optics of the 2021 shove. There’s the months-long recovery that kept Markieff sidelined. And there’s the looming presence of two Serbian brothers who look like they walked off a Hollywood villain set.

The Morris twins, known for their intensity, trash talk, and physical defense, have long carried a chip on their shoulders. But even they might be biting off more than they can chew—especially if they step into a ring with men who have thrown actual punches for a living.

Fans Want It: Could This Really Happen?

In the wake of high-profile influencer boxing matches and celebrity combat sports, fans are increasingly asking: Why not?

Social media has already started buzzing with potential undercards, mock posters, and fantasy matchups. Many are calling for a pay-per-view bout:

Morris Twins vs. Jokic Brothers

Two-on-Two Boxing Match

Charity Event Showdown

The possibilities are endless—and wildly entertaining.

However, it’s worth noting: NBA teams are unlikely to allow this to happen officially. Contracts, image management, and risk of injury make it nearly impossible for active players to participate in combat sports.

But if this challenge remains in the public eye, it wouldn’t be surprising if some version of this faceoff—even a verbal one—happens down the road.

Where Does Nikola Jokic Stand in All This?

Interestingly, Nikola Jokic himself has stayed silent about the renewed challenge. Known for his reserved personality and love for horse racing more than hype, Jokic rarely feeds into drama.

Still, if history tells us anything, his brothers have no problem stepping in when needed—especially if they feel their family honor is on the line.

And while Jokic has long moved on from the 2021 incident in public, the fierce glare his brothers gave during that post-foul altercation told a different story: they haven’t forgotten.

Final Thoughts: Real Heat or Just Hype?

This isn’t your average NBA spat.

When Markieff and Marcus Morris challenge the Jokic brothers, it brings together years of built-up tension, physical play, personal pride, and two of the league’s most intimidating sets of siblings.

Whether it’s just talk or the start of something bigger, one thing’s clear—this beef is far from over.

And if the ring does get set up someday, you can bet the whole basketball world will be watching.

Because in this rare case, it’s not about points or titles—it’s about pride.