Global rap icon and Canadian superstar Drake has stirred the pot in the ongoing conversation about lyrical supremacy in hip-hop, declaring that UK rappers are unmatched when it comes to rap battles.
During his headline performance at the Wireless Festival in London on Saturday night, the multi-platinum selling rapper paused his set to shower praise on the UK rap scene, boldly stating that no rapper from anywhere in the world can defeat English rappers in a lyrical face-off.
Mid-performance, the crowd erupted as Drake took a moment to express his admiration for the lyrical depth and artistry of British emcees.
“When I talk about my love for London and London rappers — the best lyricists in the world. Mark my words. I don’t care about what anybody says, nobody can out-rap London. Nobody,” he declared, drawing thunderous cheers from fans.
He added: “No disrespect to America, no disrespect to my country, but nobody in the world can out-rap London rappers. This is the best, highest level. And this is what I am inspired to be.”
Drake’s comments have since gone viral, sparking heated debates on social media between fans of US rap, UK grime, and international hip-hop communities. While some praised the rapper for using his platform to elevate UK talent, others—particularly hip-hop purists from the U.S.—have challenged his statement, citing America’s deep-rooted dominance in the global rap game.
Known for his close ties with the UK music scene, Drake has long collaborated with British artists such as Giggs, Skepta, J Hus, Headie One, and Dave, and has often drawn influence from the UK grime and drill sound in his music.
His co-sign at one of the UK’s biggest music festivals only further cements his affinity for British culture and reinforces the rising global profile of UK rap; a genre that continues to gain respect and recognition far beyond its borders.
As the debate continues to trend, Drake’s bold claim has reignited a global conversation: Who truly holds the crown when it comes to lyrical excellence in rap?
