In February 2025, the hip hop community was shaken by the untimely death of Irv Gotti, the influential founder of Murder Inc. Records. Gotti, who played a pivotal role in launching the careers of rap legends such as Ja Rule, Ashanti, and DMX, passed away at the age of 54 after struggling with complications arising from diabetes and strokes. His passing not only left a void in the music industry but also reignited the long-standing feud between two of hip hop’s biggest names: 50 Cent and Ja Rule.
In the wake of Gotti’s death, 50 Cent, known for his controversial persona, sparked outrage with a social media post that many deemed disrespectful. Instead of paying tribute, he shared a mocking image of a tombstone inscribed with Gotti’s name, captioned with, “I’m smoking on that Gotty Pack now. God bless him, Dove lol.” The post drew immediate backlash from fans and fellow artists alike, who condemned the insensitivity of his remarks during such a tragic time.
Ja Rule, who had a close relationship with Gotti, was particularly offended by 50 Cent’s actions. The rapper took to his own social media to honor Gotti’s legacy, expressing gratitude for the mentor who had supported him when few others did. “Rest in power Irv Gotti,” he wrote. “You believed in me when no one else did. Your vision built an empire, and your legacy will live on through every artist you touched.” Ja Rule’s emotional tribute underscored the deep bond he shared with Gotti, who was not just a mentor but also a brother and business partner.
In a pointed response to 50 Cent’s mockery, Ja Rule labeled the move “tasteless” and “beneath contempt.” He emphasized that while their rivalry has been a central theme in their careers, there are lines that should never be crossed, especially regarding life and death. This latest incident served as a stark reminder of the animosity that has simmered between the two artists since the late 1990s, when their feud first began.
The rivalry was fueled by a series of incidents, including a robbery in 1999 linked to 50 Cent and his associates. Over the years, their conflict escalated, leading to diss tracks and public insults that became staples of their ongoing feud. A significant turning point occurred in 2000 when 50 Cent was stabbed during a confrontation at a recording studio, allegedly involving Ja Rule and associates from Murder Inc. This incident marked the beginning of a tumultuous relationship characterized by personal vendettas and legal disputes.
As the years went on, both artists carved out their paths in the industry; Ja Rule faced legal challenges and a decline in commercial success, while 50 Cent expanded his influence into acting and business. Despite their diverging careers, the underlying tension continued to resurface, particularly during moments of public exchange.
When news of Irv Gotti’s death broke, many hoped it would prompt a reconsideration of the rivalry between Ja Rule and 50 Cent. However, 50 Cent’s mocking response served as a stark reminder that the feud remained alive. The hip hop community reacted swiftly, with numerous artists and fans expressing their disapproval of 50 Cent’s insensitivity.
Ja Rule’s public condemnation of 50 Cent was not merely a defense of Gotti but also a statement on the importance of respect and loyalty in hip hop. Gotti’s influence had been transformative in Ja’s life and career, and seeing a rival mock his death felt like a betrayal of the very principles Ja Rule held dear.
The developments surrounding Irv Gotti’s passing have reignited discussions about the nature of rivalries in hip hop. For many fans, this chapter in the saga of 50 Cent and Ja Rule is a reminder that the relationships formed in the industry can run deep, often intertwined with loyalty, betrayal, and personal connections.
As the narrative unfolds, the possibility of reconciliation between Ja Rule and 50 Cent remains uncertain. The history of their feud is extensive, marked by moments of animosity that have left an indelible mark on the hip hop landscape. As the industry continues to mourn Gotti’s loss, the echoes of past grievances remind us that some rivalries are never truly resolved, regardless of the passage of time or the events that unfold. In the world of hip hop, respect and loyalty are hard-earned, and the ghosts of past conflicts linger, ensuring that certain feuds remain a part of the cultural fabric for years to come.