UK grime pioneer Skepta has ignited a fiery transatlantic rap battle after publicly challenging American rappers to a lyrical showdown. In a bold move on social media, Skepta declared his desire to settle the long-standing “UK vs US rap” debate once and for all. Suggesting matchups like himself versus Joyner Lucas or Central Cee versus Jack Harlow, he called it “sport, not war,” but the challenge clearly came with serious intent. The post quickly gained traction, with fans and artists chiming in on who truly dominates the global rap scene.
Joyner Lucas was the first U.S. rapper to answer the call. Known for his technical skill and aggressive delivery, Joyner tweeted, “Say the word. Joyner Lucas vs Skepta #UKvsUS.” The response set the stage for what fans anticipated to be a high-stakes lyrical clash. Skepta replied with enthusiasm, confirming Joyner would be the first to receive a direct response. The UK rapper wasted no time turning words into bars.
Just days later, Skepta released a blistering diss track titled “Friendly Fire,” in which he takes pointed shots at Joyner Lucas. Skepta accuses Joyner of rapping like he “studied at Harvard,” mocks his delivery, and even throws jabs at American hip-hop media figures like DJ Akademiks and Ebro Darden. The track blends Skepta’s signature grime aggression with calculated lyrical jabs, reinforcing the idea that this is more than a publicity stunt—it’s a serious lyrical contest aimed at proving the strength of UK rap on a global stage.
Joyner Lucas has yet to release a response, but speculation is already mounting. With Skepta throwing the first punch, eyes are now on the Massachusetts rapper to fire back and keep the battle alive. Whether it’s a one-off or the beginning of a series of diss tracks, the Skepta vs Joyner Lucas feud has officially brought the UK vs US rap rivalry into sharp focus—and fans on both sides of the Atlantic are loving every second.
Looks like Drake also responded to the debate on Wireless stage in London: London rappers are the best lyricists in the world. No disrespect to America, no disrespect to my country but nobody can outrap London rappers. This is the best, highest level, this is what I aspire to be.
DRAKE ENDS THE UK VS US DEBATE 🚨
“London rappers are the best lyricists in the world”
“No disrespect to America but nobody in the world can outrap London rappers”
“This is the highest level, this is what I aspire to be” pic.twitter.com/GPQSabUE06
— UK Rap Daily (@UKRapDaily) July 12, 2025