As many of you know, Brian lived next door to Bengals’ wide receiver Chad Johnson (aka Ocho Cinco). It appears tonight that Ocho Cinco will be traded to the New England Patriots. Brian thought it was pretty cool to live next to a NFL star. He made it a point to never ask him for tickets and tried to treat him like a regular neighbor. Of course, this neighbor had six cars – including a Lamborghini convertible that he would often leave outside, in the rain with the top down.
Brain would always love to tell me stories about his interactions with Chad and some of the crazy events that would occur. Once, a young 20-ish woman (in a short skirt) knocked on his door around 8 AM, Saturday morning. Brian had a tough night and was sporting the “Bri-fro.” She kept pounding on the door. He finally opened it with a demure “what the f____ do you want?” She meekly asked “are you Chad Johnson?” Brian said “Do I look like Chad Johnson?” and slammed the door. At the time, he did not think it was funny. Later, both he and Chad thought it was hilarious.
One time, Brian did ask Chad for a favor. It was before a Xavier basketball game on a Saturday morning. Brian called me and said “you have 15 minutes to get everyone over here to have your picture taken with Chad.” Considering Patrick loves Chad, we got in the car and Susan actually sped to get there.
Chad was more than gracious. He talked to us, took numerous pictures and signed stuff. Patrick thought it was “really cool.” As you can see from the picture, all the McCormick’s enjoyed it. I think Chad did too. Later, Brian was getting the pictures autographed. Chad looked at the photo and said “hey, who’s that? She’s looks cute.” In a surprised voice, Brian said: “Um, Chad…she’s my sister-in-law and those are her two kids and that’s my brother.” Chad was not embarrassed at all and said a line worthy of a NFL Pro Bowler: “Damn, she looks goooood. But, not as good as me!”
I am certain Brian would be sad to see Ocho Cinco go to New England. We all know he would be instantly scheming to get sideline tickets at Foxboro for him and all his buddies. Good luck Chad, we will miss you and hope you keep looking “good.”
