by Rumors circulated online in January 2025 claiming that Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes bought a hotel and fired its employees after facing racial discrimination. In reality, there is no evidence to support this story. Here’s what happened, based on the available facts:
Origin of the Rumor
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Fictional Story About Shaquille O’Neal
The rumor first appeared as a tale involving NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal buying a hotel after experiencing discrimination. That story was published in a YouTube video with disclaimers labeling it as fictional and significantly edited or generated content. -
Name Swap to Patrick Mahomes
A nearly identical narrative then popped up online, but with Mahomes’ name substituted for O’Neal’s. This Mahomes version appeared on a website and in social media posts. It combined elements of the fictional story about O’Neal with genuine images of Mahomes, resulting in confusion.
Signs of Fabrication
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AI-Generated or Altered Images
- Some images showed a digital editing watermark, and Mahomes appeared to have no shadow—both indicators that the photos were manipulated.
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Mismatch of Sources
- The story text on various sites closely matched the transcript from the Shaquille O’Neal video, except O’Neal’s name was replaced by Mahomes’.
- A partial transcription ended abruptly, switching to an unrelated anecdote about Mahomes’ family.
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No Credible Evidence
- Reputable news outlets and official statements provided no corroboration that Mahomes had purchased a hotel.
- Snopes and other fact-checkers confirmed the story was unfounded.
Why the Rumor Spread
- Viral Social Media Posts
Platforms like Facebook featured the claim, complete with manipulated photos, making it appear believable at a glance. - Celebrity Curiosity
High-profile athletes like Patrick Mahomes often attract rumors, especially those tying them to large-scale business ventures.
The Verdict
Patrick Mahomes did not buy a hotel, nor did he fire any employees over a racist incident. The claim originated from a fictional account involving Shaquille O’Neal that was repurposed and altered to include Mahomes’ name. All evidence suggests the story is entirely fabricated.
Key Takeaway
When encountering stories about notable figures, especially those involving dramatic events or major business deals, it’s always wise to look for credible news sources or official statements. In this case, fact-checkers have clearly shown that the hotel-buying rumor was false.
