'Untouchable' Jay-Z Says No One Could Survive Two Hours With Him in a Versuz Battle

Calling himself "untouchable," Jay-Z said no one could hold up against him on a Verzuz stage for the length of a typical set, a claim that resurfaced this week and reignited debate about who — if anyone — could challenge the rap mogul.

The comments, first made during a 2021 conversation with Alicia Keys on Twitter Spaces, were widely circulated again after clips circulated on social media. In the exchange, Jay-Z, as per HotNewHipHop, argued that his catalog, stamina and live performance presence would make a two-hour Verzuz battle effectively unwinnable for any opponent.

"No disrespect," Jay-Z said in the 2021 audio, as reported by Complex. "No one can stand on that stage with me. I'm just telling you guys the real. There's not a chance in hell that anyone can stand on that stage for, I don't know how long it is? Two hours? Two hours. You got to stand in front of the 'Grammy Family Freestyle' live? No one has ever even seen me perform that."

Verzuz, the Instagram Live series created by producers Swizz Beatz and Timbaland during the COVID-19 pandemic, pairs two musical acts for friendly, track-by-track matchups. Originally featuring R&B and hip-hop artists trading hits, the series expanded into high-profile events that drew millions of viewers worldwide.

Jay-Z — born Shawn Carter — is frequently cited among hip-hop's most commercially successful and critically acclaimed artists. His career stretches from the 1996 debut Reasonable Doubt through later albums such as The Blueprint, The Black Album and 4:44, and includes roles as a label executive and entrepreneur. Supporters of his claim point to decades of charting singles, influential albums and a long track record of headlining major arenas and stadiums.

Reaction on social media was split but leaned toward agreement that Jay-Z's résumé gives him an advantage. "Jay-Z in a Verzuz would never be fair," one user wrote on X. "It's not arrogance, it's statistics," another said.

Some observers and peers have suggested possible opponents who could offer a competitive matchup. In 2022, rapper Jim Jones referred to Drake as a competitor. He said that Drake's consistent success with platinum hits could pose a strong challenge. Others have proposed names from various eras, including peers and artists recognized for their extensive catalogs and significant guest appearances.

Verzuz matchups include more than just individual tracks. Curation, energy, guest appearances, and audience reactions all influence how a battle unfolds.

Some fans think a collaborative producer or curator could change the dynamics by inviting different guests or focusing on themed selections from each artist's catalog.
Jay-Z has not participated in a Verzuz event. Representatives for the artist did not immediately respond to requests for comment Wednesday.

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Jay-Z, Verzuz