“I’m Not Intimidated by Odumodublvck or Blaqbonez” — M.I Abaga Reaffirms His Legacy, Challenges Young Rappers

Veteran rapper M.I Abaga has made it clear that despite the current dominance of young talents like Odumodublvck and Blaqbonez, he remains confident in his lyrical prowess and unshaken in his status as a hip-hop heavyweight.

In a candid interview on Jay On-Air, the respected lyricist and music executive praised the new wave of Nigerian rap stars but firmly dismissed any notion of feeling threatened by them.

M.I, whose real name is Jude Abaga, expressed admiration for their creativity and hustle while emphasizing that their rise does not diminish his influence or skills.

“The likes of Odumodublvck, Shallipopi, Ladipoe, and Falz are doing great work in the rap game,” he said. “But I don’t feel like I’ve been pushed aside or that I’m irrelevant. What matters to me is — if we’re in the studio together, can you outrap me? That’s the real test.”

While showing love to Odumodublvck and Blaqbonez in particular, M.I reiterated that he does not operate on the same hype-based metrics as current Afrobeats stars.

“I’m not Davido, I’m not Wizkid. They are in their red-hot moment,” he said. “But as a rapper, that heat doesn’t intimidate me. I respect the grind, but I’ve got nothing to prove unless we’re face-to-face in the booth.”

M.I’s comments have sparked conversations online, with fans of all ages debating the generational shift in Nigerian hip-hop. Some see his remarks as a bold challenge to the new guard, while others interpret them as a proud reflection on a storied career that has helped shape the genre in Nigeria.

As the rap scene continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: M.I Abaga isn’t backing down from anyone. Whether mentoring, collaborating, or competing, the veteran artist is still ready to go bar-for-bar with the best of them.