"I'm a lover, not a fighter. I've always been that way"

O.J. Simpson’s statement, “I’m a lover, not a fighter. I’ve always been that way,” functions as an assertion of personal identity that attempts to shape the perception others have of his character. By describing himself as a lover, Simpson aligns with qualities associated with compassion, gentleness, and emotional connection. This contrasts sharply with the notion of being a fighter, which suggests aggression, confrontation, or a tendency toward violence. His use of the phrase, “I’ve always been that way,” seeks to present a consistent track record, indicating that this trait is not a mere affectation or response to current circumstances, but an enduring aspect of his personality.

This statement can be read as an act of self-defense, spoken in a context where his reputation and moral character are under intense public scrutiny. By highlighting his disposition as peaceful rather than combative, he attempts to distance himself from any implication that he might respond to conflict with aggression. The underlying message is that those who know him, or who accept his self-description, should find it difficult to imagine him engaging in violent behavior. The phrase, therefore, carries an implicit denial of accusations of violence, positioning himself as fundamentally incapable of such actions.

From a rhetorical standpoint, the phrase “I’m a lover, not a fighter” is also a common idiom often used to communicate one’s preference to avoid conflict in favor of affectionate or harmonious relations. By leveraging a familiar cultural expression, Simpson invites listeners to identify or empathize with his perspective, subtly aligning him with values that society generally holds in high regard. The insistence on “always” being that way reinforces his commitment to these values, suggesting reliability and integrity. The overall effect is to humanize himself, appealing to the listener’s trust and skepticism toward negative perceptions, and striving to reframe his public image around themes of love and non-violence.