Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B has publicly shut down claims suggesting she was strategically “planted” in the music industry to replace or overshadow fellow rap superstar Nicki Minaj.
The long-running rumour resurfaced recently after a leaked video clip of rapper Ye reignited speculation, alleging that Cardi was an “Illuminati plant” introduced by the industry with the sole purpose of dethroning Minaj. The video quickly went viral, fueling yet another wave of debate among fans of both artists.
Cardi B insists her career was earned
Speaking candidly during an interview on Wednesday’s episode of the Call Her Daddy podcast, Cardi B described the rumours as “completely baseless and insulting.” She made it clear that her rise to stardom came from her hard work, persistence, talent, and destiny—not from any hidden agenda or industry conspiracy.
“I was destined for this. Nobody signed me to take out anybody. Nobody brought me here to destroy anyone’s career,” Cardi said firmly. She went on to add that her journey from a Bronx stripper to a reality TV star and then to a record-breaking rap artist was a story of grit and determination, not manipulation. Although she did not mention Minaj directly, her words were seen as a clear rebuttal to the rumour that she was brought in as Nicki’s “replacement.”
Challenging the rivalry narrative
Cardi B also used the opportunity to address the broader culture of rivalry narratives that often surround women in hip hop. She argued that the entertainment industry frequently pits female rappers against each other, even when disagreements are normal and not tied to hidden motives.
“Sometimes people just don’t vibe, sometimes personalities clash—that doesn’t mean there’s a grand plot behind it,” she explained. By saying this, Cardi aimed to separate genuine artistic differences from the conspiracy theories that tend to dominate online spaces whenever two women in rap achieve prominence at the same time.
A history of tension with Nicki Minaj
The relationship between Cardi B and Nicki Minaj has been one of the most discussed rivalries in modern hip hop. Their feud reached its peak in 2018 during New York Fashion Week, when Cardi reportedly threw a shoe at Minaj in a heated altercation that made global headlines and fueled years of speculation about their dislike for each other.
While fans have continued to debate and amplify the tension between the two, Cardi’s latest remarks suggest she wants to distance herself from the idea of being locked in a battle for dominance. Instead, she emphasized that her focus is on her achievements, growth, and contributions to rap culture.
Looking ahead
Cardi B’s firm dismissal of the “industry plant” rumour signals her desire to put old narratives to rest and redirect attention to her artistry. With multiple chart-topping hits, a Grammy win, and a loyal fanbase, she has solidified her place in the industry. For Cardi, the speculation about being an orchestrated replacement is simply another distraction from the fact that she is one of the leading female rappers of her generation, making her mark on her own terms.