Charles Barkley On How Dikembe Mutombo Canceled His Wedding Because Fiancée Didn’t Sign Prenup

Charles Barkley recently shared a hilarious yet insightful anecdote about his late friend and NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo during an episode of the “Steam Room” podcast. Reflecting on Mutombo’s life and larger-than-life personality, Barkley recounted the story of how Mutombo canceled his wedding because his fiancée refused to sign a prenuptial agreement — a decision that showcased both Mutombo’s principles and his humor.

The tale begins with Mutombo, known as much for his dominant shot-blocking as for his iconic finger wag, preparing for his wedding. Barkley explained that Mutombo insisted his fiancée sign a prenup well in advance. “He told the girl, ‘You have to sign a prenup,’” Barkley began. “She said, ‘I’m not signing a prenup.’” Mutombo, however, stood firm, bringing up the matter repeatedly as the wedding date approached.

While the story is already entertaining, it’s Mutombo’s reaction to the aftermath that truly cemented his legendary humor. Barkley recounted Mutombo’s primary complaint: “You know the worst thing about it, Charlie? They ate my cake.” Barkley, incredulous, asked, “Are you serious?” To which Mutombo replied, “I wasn’t upset about not getting married. She wouldn’t sign the prenup. But they ate my cake!”

Mutombo’s signature laugh, which Barkley imitated during the podcast, punctuated the story and highlighted the warmth and humor that made the Congolese-born NBA star such a beloved figure. “Man, we’re going to miss him in the NBA,” Barkley said, expressing a sentiment shared by basketball fans worldwide following Mutombo’s passing in the offseason.