Hitman HollavsConceited

The NOME 3 card delivered a matchup packed with star power as St. Louis's Hitman Holla squared off against Brooklyn's own Conceited. Billed as a battle between two of the culture's biggest names, this contest proved to be a wild ride, marked by contrasting styles, undeniable talent, and a crowd that left many fans scratching their heads. What started with high energy ultimately devolved into a memorable, if chaotic, display of mutual respect.

Hitman Holla came out swinging, especially in his first round, which many in the community recall as legendary. His aggressive delivery and powerful stage presence were on full display, earning him significant crowd pops. Bars like the intricately woven "PS Wii connect in your XBOX that hurt Console" landed hard, showcasing his clever wordplay. Hitman's ability to command the room and energize the audience, often amplified by his brother Showout's hype, was a critical factor in his performance, demonstrating why he consistently connects with a live crowd.

On the other side, Conceited brought his signature brand of dense, multi-layered lyricism. Fans consistently highlight his "genius" and "intellectual" approach, with intricate schemes like the wedding party bar ("Got the blazers tucked, see those'll ring boy, you'll get a couple, all to your best man") being pointed out as prime examples of his skill. However, a recurring sentiment from viewers is that many of Conceited's most potent lines, including his iconic "Slow it down, I just dissed you" moment, went completely over the heads of the live audience. This disconnect created a polarizing experience, as a significant portion of the crowd booed or remained silent during what many online fans consider elite-tier punchlines.

The battle took a unique turn in the third round. With both rappers visibly affected by the crowd's unpredictable reactions and their evident friendship shining through, the round transformed into an informal exchange rather than a traditional battle. Moments of mutual laughter, ad-libs, and a playful tone dominated, leading to a visibly frustrated Smack. This unconventional ending, while chaotic, ultimately underscored the genuine rapport between Hitman and Conceited, who would later become widely known for their dynamic on Wild 'N Out.

Ultimately, this battle remains a topic of intense debate among fans. While Hitman Holla arguably secured the crowd's favor with his powerful delivery and accessible schemes, Conceited captivated a substantial online audience with his complex lyrical wizardry, even if it wasn't fully appreciated in the room. The clash serves as a testament to the diverse elements that define battle rap – from raw aggression and performance to intricate wordplay and punchlines – and how a crowd's perception can heavily influence the narrative.