These days, it doesn’t take too long in a rap star’s career before comparisons to the late and greats like Tupac Shakur begin to arise.

But not for Joey Bada$, who is skipping the comparative middleman and making one of his boldest statements yet: he’d take the cake in a match up against the West Coast icon. Not, however, in the way most people may have assumed.

In an interview with Genius, the Pro Era founding member brought up 'Pac’s name among several iconic Black history figures that have impacted him in one way or another. He added his belief that every generation is presented with the opportunity to “outshine” the previous one, advancing each era in a successive manner. Circling back to 'Pac, Joey expressed his confidence that he is one of the sparking minds that 'Pac believed would change the world.

“I already know I’m a better rapper than Tupac is,” he said afterward. “That’s just facts. One-on-one battle, I’ll flame 'Pac.” The good-natured laugh that followed could have meant Joey had no intention for the statement to be taken even partly serious or that he was a bit cocky, but certain.

According to his Twitter, however, it obviously was the latter. Standing beside his claim, the Brooklyn rapper clarified that his boast concerning 'Pac was in terms of talent.

“When I said I was better than PAC (my favorite rapper of all time), I was referring to rap skill,” he said. “Bar for bar. Not accolades or influence. And I back myself 1000 times to the fact. Media like twisting up the words, but that’s what I meant for all you butt-hurt bozos.”

Should anyone dissent further, he added, take it up with the #BadassDefenseSquad.

See what the “Devastated” rap star had to say for the naysayers below.