The 2025 World Series promises to be much more than just a baseball final. The Toronto Blue Jays, after defeating the Mariners in an epic seventh game, return to a World Series for the first time in 32 years. They will face the Los Angeles Dodgers, the current defending champions, who are ready to make history with their second consecutive appearance in the Fall Classic.
But beyond the diamond, this battle is also being played out on another terrain: pop culture. And the protagonists off the field are two hip-hop titans: Drake and Kendrick Lamar.
From the diamond to the microphone: the message that ignited the rivalry
It all started with a direct message. Shortly after Toronto’s triumph, the DailyRapFacts account revealed a screenshot in which Drake sent a DM to the American rapper: “Los Angeles vs. Toronto”.
At first glance, it was a sporting phrase. But fans understood the subtext: a direct provocation to Kendrick Lamar, his eternal rival in the music industry and an emblem of Los Angeles.
The rivalry between the two artists defined much of 2024, when a series of incendiary songs – such as “Like That,” “Family Matters” and “Not Like Us”– pitted the two most influential rappers of their generation against each other. The climax came when Lamar performed his songs at the Super Bowl halftime show, cementing the showdown as a global cultural event.
With a simple message, Drake reignited the flame just before his hometown faced his rival’s on baseball’s biggest stage.
From Bay Street to Hollywood: two cities, two styles
Toronto, which had not been to a World Series since 1993, revives the spirit of Joe Carter and his legendary home run. It is a city of hard work, of silent pride, where Drake has become a symbol of identity and ambition.
Los Angeles, on the other hand, represents the glitz, glamour and winning tradition. The Dodgers come in with a roster of superstars – including Shohei Ohtani, who signed a record $700 million contract – and the backing of a culture that blends sports, music and film.
Drake, the jewel and promise of the “6”
After the victory, Drake posted a video celebrating the final out with the message: “GREAT SHOW, THE 6IX IS HERE!” making reference to Toronto’s nickname.
The rapper, who has promised a custom chain with the symbols of the city’s three franchises –Raptors, Blue Jays and Maple Leafs– could wear it during the World Series as a symbol of local pride.
The 2025 World Series will be a battle between two teams, but also between two cities and two cultures.
- Toronto vs Los Angeles.
- Drake vs. Kendrick.
- Baseball against rhythm.
And this time, the diamond will be the stage for both worlds.
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