Eminem’s 8 Most Notorious Rap Beefs: From Benzino to Machine Gun Kelly

Eminem has built a career on controversy, sharp lyricism, and an unparalleled ability to destroy opponents on wax. While his catalog boasts numerous hits and classic albums, his history of rap beefs has cemented his reputation as one of hip-hop’s most feared battle rappers. Whether he was defending himself, his family, or his artistic integrity, Eminem has never hesitated to fire back. Here’s a look at eight of his most infamous rap feuds.

1. Benzino: The Beef That Took Down The Source

One of Eminem’s most career-defining feuds was with Benzino, the co-owner of The Source magazine. The dispute began when Benzino accused Eminem of being a culture vulture who was profiting off hip-hop while being an outsider. Benzino’s bitterness led to The Source attempting to discredit Eminem’s influence, even giving his album The Eminem Show a suspiciously low rating.

Eminem responded with “The Sauce” and “Nail in the Coffin,” two scathing diss tracks that completely dismantled Benzino’s credibility. The feud ultimately backfired on Benzino, as his career suffered while Eminem only became stronger. Many believe this beef contributed to the decline of The Source’s influence in hip-hop.

2. Ja Rule: A Personal War with Shady Records

Eminem’s feud with Ja Rule stemmed from his allegiance to 50 Cent, who was already engaged in a heated battle with Murder Inc. Ja Rule escalated the situation when he took a personal shot at Eminem’s daughter, Hailie, in the track “Loose Change.”

This was a mistake. Eminem, alongside 50 Cent and D12, retaliated with multiple diss tracks, including “Hail Mary (Remix)” and “Doe Rae Me (Hailie’s Revenge).” Eminem took direct aim at Ja Rule’s credibility, questioning his gangster persona and exposing the weaknesses in his music. The attack was so overwhelming that Ja Rule’s career took a nosedive shortly after.

3. Canibus: A Battle Over Ghostwriting Accusations

Canibus, once regarded as one of the most lyrically gifted MCs, got into a feud with Eminem over claims that Em had ghostwritten for LL Cool J during their legendary battle. Despite Eminem denying the allegations, Canibus continued throwing shots.

This led to diss tracks like “Can-I-Bitch” and “The Ripper Strikes Back,” but Eminem didn’t waste too much energy on the battle. He fired back subtly on “Square Dance” and other tracks but never fully engaged. Canibus’ career fizzled out while Eminem continued his dominance in the industry.

4. Everlast: From Rock-Rap to Battle Raps

Everlast, best known for his work with House of Pain, had a brief but intense feud with Eminem. It reportedly began when Everlast dissed Eminem in a song, leading to Em firing back with “I Remember.”

Everlast responded with “Whitey’s Revenge,” but Eminem escalated things further with “Quitter,” where he and D12 viciously attacked Everlast’s relevance and credibility. The feud never resulted in a real career hit for either artist, but it showed Eminem’s relentless approach to defending his name.

5. Machine Gun Kelly (MGK): Rap Devil vs. Killshot

One of Eminem’s most recent and highly publicized feuds was with Machine Gun Kelly. It all started in 2012 when MGK made inappropriate comments about Eminem’s then-teenage daughter, Hailie. Though MGK claimed it was harmless, Eminem didn’t forget.

Years later, MGK took shots at Eminem on “Rap Devil,” calling him old and out of touch. Eminem responded with “Killshot,” dismantling MGK’s credibility, mocking his man-bun, and questioning his overall skills. The response was so impactful that MGK pivoted to pop-punk shortly after, making many believe Eminem effectively ended his rap career.

6. Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon: A Pop Culture Feud

While not a traditional rap beef, Eminem’s feud with Mariah Carey was one of his most talked-about personal conflicts. Eminem claimed he had a romantic relationship with Mariah, which she vehemently denied.

Eminem dissed her in “Bagpipes from Baghdad,” leading Mariah to release “Obsessed,” a song and music video mocking Eminem. But Eminem came back harder with “The Warning,” where he dropped alleged voicemails and details about their past.

Nick Cannon later tried to revive the beef with multiple diss tracks, but Eminem ignored them, letting his earlier work speak for itself.

7. Insane Clown Posse (ICP): A Detroit Rivalry

Eminem’s hometown rivalry with Insane Clown Posse (ICP) started when he allegedly used their name on a flyer without their permission. Feeling disrespected, ICP fired back with “Slim Anus.”

Eminem responded on “Marshall Mathers” and later dissed them again on “Quitter.” The beef was more comedic than serious, but it cemented the divide between Eminem’s hardcore rap style and ICP’s horrorcore fanbase.

8. Moby: When a Techno DJ Gets Dragged into a Rap Battle

Moby, the electronic music producer, criticized Eminem for promoting violence and misogyny in his lyrics. Eminem, never one to let criticism slide, mocked Moby in “Without Me,” rapping, “Nobody listens to techno.”

Moby never responded musically, and the “beef” was more of a one-sided attack by Eminem. Still, it showcased how Eminem could turn even minor criticism into a memorable lyrical moment.

Final Thoughts: Eminem’s Legacy in Rap Battles

Eminem’s beefs have shaped his career and cemented his reputation as a battle-tested lyricist. Unlike many artists who fade after controversy, Eminem has used these conflicts to fuel some of his best music. Whether going against industry figures, fellow rappers, or even pop stars, Eminem’s willingness to confront his enemies head-on has made him one of hip-hop’s most feared and respected MCs.

While some of these beefs are long buried, they remain some of the most entertaining moments in rap history. Who do you think gave Eminem his toughest battle? Let us know in the comments.