What did Drake say about the UK vs. US rap debate? Details explored

Wireless Festival 2025 - Day Two - Source: Getty
Drake praises London rappers in the UK vs. US rap debate. (Image via Getty)

Drake has given his opinion on the UK vs. US rap debate by siding with the London-based rappers. The Canadian rapper and singer was seen saying to his fans:

"When I talk about my love for London, London rappers are the best, the best lyricists in the world. Mark my words. Nobody says nobody can outrap London. Nobody."

He continued:

"No disrespect to America, no disrespect to our country, but nobody can outrap London rappers. This is the best, highest level; it is what I aspire to be."

How did the UK vs. US rap debate start?

On July 3, rapper Skepta posted a tweet on X (formerly Twitter), stirring up a debate between UK and US rap. The tweet read:

"I wanna clash an American rapper anyway, finally get this UK/US rap debate sorted."

Since then, Skepta has posted multiple tweets supporting the UK rappers, with one tweet saying:

"The average American rapper don’t even listen to UK rappers, but we’ve listen to them (for years) and that is exactly why the UK can’t lose 🌍"

In one of his recent tweets, he wrote:

"😂😭 let me say this now. This clash is to show we’re not inferior, to show the world how to clash. I’m trying to win this war to the UK, not over there.. so I don’t care who don’t understand me lol UK STAND THE FU*K UP!"

Skepta also dropped a diss track called “Friendly Fire” aimed at Joyner Lucas, an American rapper who reportedly took on the UK vs. US rap challenge.


How did the internet react to Drake's statement on the UK vs. US rap debate?

Drake, being one of the biggest artists in the world, quickly gained everyone’s attention with his comment. Fans had a mixed reaction to Drake’s bold statement.

While some praised him for showing love to UK talent, most of his fans and rap lovers felt he was overlooking the influence and legacy of American rap.

Let's have a look at their reactions:

A user, @BigZoLive, wrote,

"Name a UK famous rapper, known by everyone INTERNATIONALLY and tops charts. Im waiting."

Another user, @moreofjoana, posted,

"drake isn't even top 10 in america lol"

One more user, @TundeSilk, added,

"Respectfully, Kendrick, J Cole, and Hov would wipe out the entirety of UK Rap"

Another user, @TheVibesCulture, posted,

"He proves our point day by day 🤣"

One more user, @rdj4014, tweeted,

"Oh, right. I forgot Eminem was from the 8 mile area of London."

With Drake and Skepta speaking up and Joyner Lucas joining the challenge, people online are now waiting to see how this battle goes. Many are also wondering if other rappers will share their thoughts.

Also read: Maiya The Don reacts to Skepta’s take on the UK vs US rap debate

Edited by Yesha Srivastava