Ja Rule says he surpassed 50 Cent as a rapper and breaks down why

Ja Rule revisits a classic hip-hop rivalry
Gabrielle's Angel Foundation Hosts Angel Ball 2025
Gabrielle's Angel Foundation Hosts Angel Ball 2025 | Dimitrios Kambouris/GettyImages

When it comes to rap history, very few rivalries have shaped the culture like the feud between Ja Rule and 50 Cent. Fans have argued about it for years, and the story keeps coming back whenever either artist speaks on their past. That’s exactly why this moment matters: Ja Rule is finally offering a calmer, more thoughtful take on a beef that once dominated hip-hop headlines.

In a recent conversation, Ja Rule didn’t return to the old bitterness. Instead, he talked about growth, maturity, and the way competition in rap can be powerful without becoming destructive. His tone felt very different from the energy of the early 2000s, showing how much he has evolved as an artist and as a person.

That shift alone is worth digging into, because it reflects something bigger happening in today’s hip-hop culture.

This article breaks down Ja Rule’s latest comments, what they mean for the rap community, and why his message about respect, artistry, and legacy still matters today. Whether you’ve followed the feud since day one or you’re discovering it now, his perspective highlights a powerful lesson about healing, hip-hop history, and the realities behind legendary rap beefs.

Ja Rule reflects on a legendary hip-hop feud

During his appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Ja Rule revisited his long-running conflict with 50 Cent, but this time with a noticeably calmer mindset. Instead of focusing on anger or past drama, he spoke about wanting to move forward and encouraging fans to avoid getting trapped in negative energy.

Ja explained that competition is part of rap culture, but it shouldn’t force people to choose sides. As he put it, “Fans often feel compelled to choose sides… But you don’t though. At the end of the day, you have to appreciate the contributions of both artists.” His message was clear: both artists made major marks on hip-hop, and their work deserves respect.

Even when Ja said, “I feel like I was the better rapper… and made the better records,” it didn’t come from a place of hostility. Instead, it felt like confidence mixed with maturity, a reminder that artists can acknowledge their own impact without tearing others down.

No reunion, no collaboration, just honesty

When asked whether a future collaboration or reconciliation with 50 Cent might ever happen, Ja Rule shut the idea down immediately. He responded, “We’ve never done a record together. We’ve never been friends, so I don’t know why people want to see that.” His tone made it clear that some things simply don’t need to be forced for the sake of publicity.

This honesty adds closure for fans who still hope to see the two Queens rappers on the same track. According to Ja, that moment is not coming, and he’s finally at peace with that reality.

Hip-Hop beef today

Ja Rule also commented on how rap battles have changed, mentioning recent high-profile exchanges like Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake. He explained, “That’s why I don’t promote negativity between me and 50… I wish that Black man luck. Go ahead and do you but do better, because all you do is take sho*ts at other Black people.”

His words highlighted a bigger issue in the culture: the line between competition and destruction. Ja Rule’s stance now leans toward growth, positivity, and elevating the community rather than dragging down fellow artists.

As of now, 50 Cent hasn’t reacted to Ja’s latest remarks, leaving fans curious, but the message stands strong. Ja Rule is choosing maturity, choosing peace, and choosing a healthier view of rap rivalry.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations