100 BARS MAGAZINE 008 Apr/May 2014 | Page 11

because it’s a combination with them as well; if [battlers] are not receptive to these battles, then you’re not going to have these issues. I really do think it does water stuff down, because: matchups are not that great; you’re overbooking battles; you’re taking 15 battles and you’re not even giving your A-game. And that’s one of the reasons that I really respect Hitman Holla and certain guys like that, because they still preserve what they do. You can’t blame the league if these [battle rappers] are [taking the battles]. So, it does affect [the game] but I’m always ten steps ahead of the game — myself, my staff — we’re always looking to inject new talent into the industry. So, I’m not stressing about that s**t, to be honest with you. I know where we stand, in terms of this s**t. What are some immediate changes that battle rappers can/should make to better the culture? The same for the fans and supporters; in your opinion, what are some immediate changes that battle rap fans can/should make to better the culture as a whole? Well for one thing, I’ve already started implementing a judging system. Once I start implementing it, people are going to hate. Some are going to copy. I don’t care. But I feel that if [battle rappers] have to wear a loss, they’re not going to take 15 battles [just for the] money. We are the [the NBA of battle rap leagues]; I feel like myself, Smack and everyone have to set the precedent. Starting with the new pg battles, it’s going to be all judged battles. What I love aout these young kids is that they want it to be competitive; they want it to be judged battles. It’s not even a question when I ask these cats. I think that implementing [judging] in our culture will make it more interesting. [Rappers won’t be able to] take days off or just think about checks; they [won’t be able to] take 15 battles without preparing because, what if they you lose? Continuing to keep it fresh, continuing to put fresh faces out there; that’s what we’re on. [The culture] has to be more organized; [it has] to continue to get better. I believe