On Sunday night, the great Chris Chelios finally saw his No. 7 get hung up by the Chicago Blackhawks up in the rafters of the United Center. Joining him in celebrating this grand jersey retirement ceremony were thousands of hockey fans, several friends, and family who fully supported his wonderful 10-year run in the Windy City.
But contrary to what was initially expected, Michael Jordan couldn’t attend Chelios’s jersey retirement due to an unfortunate matter.
The reason behind MJ’s absence
There were reports that MJ is about to make a United Center return in which he’ll attend the grand ceremony of Chelios this Sunday, but the Bulls legend wasn’t able to do so because of an emergency. A member of Jordan’s family passed away, which ultimately barred him from making an attendance as a special guest.
Though he missed the special event, this didn’t prevent Michael from sending his congratulatory video message to Chelios, as his jersey now joins his fabled No. 23 above the UC.
“Hey, man, unfortunately, Chelios, I can’t make it again this week,” Jordan said. “I tried for the Ring of Honor. I couldn’t make it then. I had a death in the family for Sunday. Look, you’re a very deserving man, and I’m proud to see your jersey up there with my jersey. You and I have been friends for 30 years, so I wish you the best. I send a bunch of love, you know, go Blackhawks!”
Meanwhile, Dennis Rodman was there and shouldered the unavailability of Jordan on behalf of the Bulls representation. Dennis’s appearance on the jersey retirement was well-received by fans, including Chelios, who even gave him a special shoutout during his speech.
No hard feelings
After being two of Chicago’s finest in the ‘90s, the relationship between Chelios and Jordan extends beyond the court. And despite the absence of his longtime friend, Chris doesn’t hold a single grudge against MJ.
Though they weren’t able to share a moment this weekend, he is looking forward to the next opportunity they meet again.
“I saw him a couple of weeks ago and we talked,” Chelios said. “It doesn’t matter. He’s here in spirit. I’m hanging in the rafters with his jersey. We talked about that. We spoke yesterday and he’s always been there for me. He was there for the Hall of Fame, he came in. Just something came up and we’ll celebrate on his boat next week.”
