Battle Rap and the Tensions Between Pat Papoose and Remy Ma: Cassidy Weighs In on Boundaries and Ethics

Battle rap has always been a no-holds-barred arena, where lyricists go head-to-head in a verbal sparring match that leaves no topic untouched.

Its unapologetic nature has made it one of the most raw and compelling elements of hip-hop culture. But what happens when personal lives and relationships become fodder for battle?

This question has come to the forefront amid rumors of tensions between Pat Papoose and Remy Ma—two figures highly respected within both hip-hop and the battle rap community.

While speculation runs wild about the couple’s alleged issues, battle rap veteran Cassidy has chosen a more neutral stance.

“I don’t have much information on it,” he said in a recent interview when asked about the situation.

“They haven’t spoken on it yet, so there’s not enough for me to comment on. But both of them are cool with me. I’ve known Papoose for years—over 15 years—and the same with Remy.”

Cassidy’s connection with Remy Ma is particularly meaningful. He shared how, during his incarceration, Remy publicly supported him.

“When I was in jail, she was one of the only artists who wore ‘Free Cassidy’ shirts and advocated for me to come home. That meant a lot to me,” he recalled.

With such a long-standing relationship with both artists, Cassidy expressed only goodwill for them. “I just wish them the best. They represent black love, and a lot of people look up to their relationship. I hope everything keeps going well for them.”

Crossing the Line or Playing the Game?

The discussion then turned to a broader topic within the battle rap community: the ethics of incorporating personal attacks into battles.

Specifically, Cassidy was asked whether bringing up topics like someone’s romantic relationships is crossing the line. His response was clear and unapologetic.

“Anything goes in battle rap,” Cassidy declared. “That’s why a lot of industry people or celebrities are scared to battle.

There are no rules or regulations. It’s not like a regular argument or fight where you can set boundaries. If someone comes at you, you have the freedom to respond however you want, as long as it makes an impact.”

Drawing a parallel with physical altercations, Cassidy explained, “If someone smacks you, you can’t dictate how they respond.

They might smack you back, punch you, or even do something worse. Battle rap is the same. When someone disrespects you, you can’t tell them what they can or can’t say in response.

That’s why it’s such a dangerous and raw form of art.”

In today’s battle rap landscape, Cassidy noted, truth often takes a backseat to entertainment value. “It doesn’t even have to be true anymore.

People don’t do the research. As long as it’s something the audience will react to, they’ll run with it. That’s how battle rap works now. It’s all about creating a moment that sticks, regardless of whether it’s factual or not.”

The Rise of NDAs in Battle Rap

Interestingly, Cassidy shed light on a new trend in the battle rap world: the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and contractual restrictions.

These agreements, often requested by more established figures or industry professionals, are designed to set boundaries on what can and cannot be mentioned during a battle.

“I don’t agree with that at all,” Cassidy said. “It’s battle rap—anything goes. If you’re stepping into the ring, you have to be prepared for people to talk about anything and everything.

If you’re sensitive about certain topics, then maybe battle rap isn’t for you.”

He explained that such restrictions go against the spirit of the culture. “Nowadays, people are trying to have contracts that say you can’t talk about their family, their relationship, or other personal matters.

But that defeats the whole purpose. Battle rap is supposed to be raw and unfiltered. If you’re bringing NDAs to the table, then you’re missing the point.”

Battle Rap in the Age of Social Media

Cassidy also reflected on how the rise of social media and constant public scrutiny has changed the dynamics of battle rap.

In an era where even the smallest controversies can become viral news, battle rappers often focus on current events or trending topics.

“If there’s something happening in your life that’s public, people are going to use it,” he said. “Especially if you don’t have much else going on that they can talk about.

That’s why situations like the rumors with Pat and Remy get so much attention. There’s a limited pool of material for a lot of battle rappers who aren’t as known outside of the battle rap scene.”

Cassidy acknowledged his unique position as a prominent figure in hip-hop, both inside and outside of battle rap.

“I’m Cassidy—people know my history, so there’s more for opponents to touch on.

For a lot of these other guys, there’s not much to talk about because they’re not known outside of battle rap. That’s why they latch onto any current event or controversy they can find.”

Preserving the Essence of Battle Rap

Despite these changes, Cassidy remains a staunch defender of battle rap’s core principles. For him, the genre’s unfiltered nature is what makes it so powerful.

“Battle rap is about testing your limits and seeing who can rise above the noise. If you can’t handle people digging into your personal life, then this might not be the space for you,” he said.

As for the future of battle rap, Cassidy believes it will continue to evolve while staying true to its roots.

“People might try to bring in rules or restrictions, but at the end of the day, battle rap is about freedom of expression. That’s what makes it so raw and real. It’s not for everyone, but for those who can handle it, it’s one of the most authentic art forms out there.”

In a culture where anything goes, Cassidy’s perspective serves as a reminder of the art form’s unapologetic roots. Whether addressing personal controversies or pushing lyrical boundaries, battle rap remains a space where raw talent and resilience shine above all else.