Rick Ross Drops Bombshell Praise for Eminem, Teases Discovery of Next Rap Phenomenon

By Hip-Hop Chronicle Staff Writer January 7, 2026 – In a move that’s ignited the hip-hop world, Rick Ross, the Miami-based mogul known as “The Boss,” has publicly hailed Eminem as one of the greatest rappers alive. But the praise didn’t stop there. Ross tantalizingly hinted at discovering a new artist with the same “explosive potential” as the Detroit legend, sending fans into a frenzy of speculation across social media platforms. This revelation, dropped in a recent interview clip that’s gone viral, has hardcore hip-hop enthusiasts debating: Who could possibly step into the shadow of the Rap God?

The statement came amid a resurgence of chatter about the long-simmering tension between Ross and Eminem, which dates back over a decade. For those new to the saga, the beef traces its roots to 2009 when Ross, then riding high on his album Deeper Than Rap, took shots at Eminem’s ally 50 Cent. Eminem responded with his scorching “Despicable Freestyle” in 2010, rapping over Drake’s “Over” and Ross’s own “Beamer, Benz, or Bentley” beats. Lines like “Crown so tight that it cuts off circulation to the brain. No oxygen. Other words, there’s no air to the throne” were interpreted as direct jabs at Ross’s ambitions, leaving no heir apparent in the rap hierarchy. Reactors and fans alike have called it one of Eminem’s most layered disses, blending wordplay, cultural nods (from Ozzy Osbourne’s infamous bat incident to kitchen puns involving eggs and armor), and outright dominance.

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Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, has long been revered for his technical prowess, raw storytelling, and cultural impact. From his breakthrough with The Slim Shady LP in 1999 to recent hits like “Houdini” performed live in Detroit alongside Jelly Roll, he’s sold over 220 million albums worldwide and won 15 Grammys. Ross’s recent nod acknowledges this legacy, calling Eminem “one of the best rappers in the world” and “one of one” – unique and irreplaceable. Yet, Ross added a twist: “Of course Eminem is one of one, we know that. Ain’t tripping, but you know, he most definitely inspired a lot of artists and it was just dope for me to be in front of somebody who I felt had potential to possibly be one of those.”

This isn’t the first time Ross has sung Eminem’s praises. Back in 2021, during a Clubhouse chat, Ross echoed similar sentiments, revealing he’d spotted raw talent in an up-and-coming artist named Josh Juice, whom he believed could echo Eminem’s early promise. Juice, a relatively obscure white rapper from the underground scene, was described by Ross as having “incredible” and “dope” qualities, capable of “big things.” Though Juice hasn’t exploded onto the mainstream yet, Ross’s renewed hint has fans scouring for clues. Is it Juice again, or someone new? Social media is abuzz with theories – from rising stars like Ice Spice or Central Cee to wild guesses like a secret signee under Ross’s Maybach Music Group.

Adding fuel to the fire are recent tensions. In October 2025, Ross faced backlash in Detroit after comments perceived as shading Eminem, leading to him being “blocked” from performing in the city – reportedly orchestrated by Eminem’s associate Trick Trick. TikTok videos and Instagram reels captured the drama, with one viral clip showing Eminem “humbling” Ross through clever rhymes, flipping racial slurs like “monkey” into self-deprecating “honky” bars. Despite this, whispers of reconciliation emerged in December 2025 when a surprise collaboration track titled “Money Is Nothing” was teased on social media, suggesting the two titans might bury the hatchet for a powerhouse joint effort.

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Ross, born William Leonard Roberts II, has built an empire beyond music. As CEO of Maybach Music Group, he’s mentored talents like Meek Mill and Wale, while expanding into liquor brands like Belaire Rosé and ventures in real estate. His discography, including classics like Port of Miami and Teflon Don, boasts sales in the millions, blending luxurious trap anthems with introspective bars. Eminem’s influence on him is evident; Ross has cited the Detroit MC as an inspiration for pushing lyrical boundaries.

Fans’ reactions have been electric. On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #RickRossEminem and #NextRapGod trended, with users posting: “Ross calling Em the GOAT but teasing a new kid? This could change the game!” Others speculate the mystery artist might be a female rapper, given the rise of women in hip-hop. One post read, “If it’s someone like GloRilla or Latto, that would be explosive – matching Em’s shock value.”

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As the speculation swirls, one thing is clear: Ross’s statement bridges generations in hip-hop, honoring a veteran while spotlighting the future. Whether this leads to a collab, a new star’s debut, or more beef, the rap community is watching closely. In an industry where legacies are forged in fire, Ross’s words remind us that potential is everywhere – even in the shadow of giants like Eminem.