'Show Me the Money 12' Heats Up with Intense Diss Battles and Confirms 14 Survivors

'Show Me the Money 12' has showcased the essence of fiery diss battles, confirming 14 survivors. Since its premiere on January 15, the show has consistently recorded ratings in the 0% range up to the latest episode aired on March 12.

In the 9th episode aired on March 12, the remaining 16 rappers who survived the 'Music Mission' embarked on the 'Team Diss Mission.' The matchups were set between Gray & Loco's team and Lil Moshpit & Jay Park's team, as well as JTONG & Hukky Shibaseki's team against Zico & Crush's team. The bold provocations and witty diss performances elicited a heated response from viewers.

The Team Diss Mission was conducted in two rounds: a 1:1 individual battle and a 4:4 group battle. The winning team survived entirely, while the losing team faced the elimination of one member, heightening the tension.

In the showdown between Gray & Loco's team and Lil Moshpit & Jay Park's team, intense 1:1 individual battles unfolded. From the humorous fart performance by Pogiat the Bottom and Tray B's initial clash, to the global rap battle adding a unique twist with Mili and Flowsik, and the 'family feud' between Mason Home and Jeffrey White from the same Okasi crew, the 1:1 matchups delivered the thrill of diss battles. The group battle that followed further intensified the atmosphere with the invocation of past embarrassments, prop usage, skit-style performances, and relentless diss raps.

The battle between JTONG & Hukky Shibaseki's team and Zico & Crush's team was equally fierce. Following the 1:1 individual battle featuring a diamond tester with Flicky Bang and Raf Sandu, a fierce rap counterattack ensued between Double Down and Jung Jun Hyuk. The witty exploitation of each other's weaknesses by Royal 44 and Marv continued, and the intra-label showdown between Now I'm Young and Kim Haon, with the taunt "I'll retire you," delivered a legendary rap battle. The group battle that followed heated up the atmosphere with a stage utilizing the mega-hit 'Show Me the Money' beat 'Turtle Ship.'

Ultimately, Lil Moshpit & Jay Park's team and Zico & Crush's team emerged victorious, with all members surviving. In contrast, one member each from the losing teams, Gray & Loco's team and JTONG & Hukky Shibaseki's team, was eliminated. The eliminated contestants were Pogiat the Bottom and Double Down.

At the end of the broadcast, the upcoming main stage with the 14 survivors was teased, heightening anticipation. The main stage, a gateway to the semifinals, will feature a star-studded lineup of guest performers from Bobby to Justhis. Viewers are eagerly awaiting to see which legendary performances will unfold and who will make it to the TOP 9 in the semifinals.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr