“He’s kind of an uglier version”: Rob Gronkowski’s lighthearted jab at Nikola Jokić goes viral as the Nuggets battle to stay in the playoffs

As the NBA playoffs heat up and the Denver Nuggets fight to stay alive, the sports world is watching every move on and off the court. But while Nikola Jokić was busy dropping 44 points in a critical Game 5 loss against the Thunder, it was an Instagram reel featuring NFL legend Rob Gronkowski that unexpectedly grabbed headlines.In a video posted by @dudesondudes, Rob Gronkowski and longtime friend Julian Edelman were seen in their usual form trading playful jabs and witty banter. What caught fans off guard this time, though, was their hilarious (and slightly unfiltered) comparison involving Nikola Jokić, the reigning NBA MVP.Edelman opened the exchange with a light tease, “You’d be Jokic on the floor.” That’s all it took for Gronkowski to launch into one of the most talked-about responses of the week.“Love that comparison. The way he moves. He’s even bigger than me. But we got similar movements. Also, the way he looks. He’s got like a big nose. I got a big nose. I don’t want to say this but he’s kind of an uglier version of me.”Edelman was nearly in tears laughing, but Gronkowski didn’t stop there. He sealed the moment with a punchline that left fans stunned and entertained. “But I would still date him. Like if I was a hot chick.”The clip instantly gained traction across social media, sparking laughter, memes, and even a bit of debate. Some fans applauded the former Patriots star for his humor and self-deprecation, while others questioned whether the comment crossed a line.Regardless of how it was received, the timing of the joke couldn’t have been more curious. The Denver Nuggets were on the ropes, trailing 3–2 in the Western Conference Semifinals, and Jokić had just delivered one of his strongest performances of the postseason. To have his name unexpectedly enter a viral NFL-related conversation was a twist few saw coming.Still, for anyone familiar with Gronkowski’s media appearances, the remarks felt very on-brand. He’s known for being candid, unpredictable, and always ready to lean into absurdity for a laugh even if it means comparing himself to an NBA superstar.Also read: “So cute”: Russell Wilson’s wife Ciara Wilson reacts to star-studded tribute from Marie ClaireIn a postseason full of pressure and tension, Gronk’s comments brought a moment of levity, proving once again that in sports, humor finds a way to slip in even when everything’s on the line.