In a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Budden opened up about the ongoing tensions with fellow rapper 50 Cent, shedding light on why he chooses not to respond to the latter’s frequent public jabs. Budden’s comments come in the wake of 50 Cent’s provocative social media posts, which have drawn considerable attention in the hip-hop community.

During the episode, Budden stated, “I could sue him, but I got a lot of respect for 50.” He explained that the mere act of being mentioned by someone with a massive following—like 50 Cent’s 30 to 50 million followers—has its own financial benefits, regardless of the context. “Anytime one of those posts comes out, good or bad, I get paid,” Budden remarked, indicating that he sees value in the publicity generated by such interactions.

Budden went on to address the possibility of legal action, suggesting that while he could pursue a lawsuit over the disparaging remarks, he prefers to take the high road. “If I have a problem, are we getting lawyers involved? That’s illegal,” he said, emphasizing the absurdity of getting entangled in legal disputes over social media content.

However, Budden didn’t hold back in expressing his concerns about 50 Cent’s mental health, suggesting that the rapper may benefit from therapy. “Hip hop is the new meaning for ‘I need therapy,'” Budden argued, pointing out that both 50 Cent and Kanye West could use professional help to address their personal issues. He underscored that while 50 Cent is unapologetic and stands firm in his persona, there is a line that should not be crossed, particularly when it comes to dissing those who have passed away.

The podcast episode has sparked discussions among fans and critics alike, with many weighing in on Budden’s perspective. Some agree with his stance on the importance of respect and mental health in the industry, while others believe he may be overreacting. As the conversation continues, the hip-hop community remains abuzz with speculation about the future of this rivalry and whether Budden’s measured approach will ultimately prove beneficial.

In the world of hip-hop, where feuds often escalate quickly, Budden’s decision not to engage directly with 50 Cent’s provocations stands out. His remarks resonate with a larger conversation about respect and accountability within the genre, signaling a call for introspection among artists who often find themselves embroiled in public disputes.

As fans await the next chapter in this unfolding saga, the question remains: will 50 Cent heed Budden’s advice, or will the rivalry continue to intensify? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear—Budden’s thoughtful approach has added a new layer to the ongoing dialogue about respect and mental health in hip-hop culture.