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Community Verdict
This is a highly debatable classic, with fan opinion split almost evenly. While many score the battle 2-1 for Steams based on his consistent pressure in the first two rounds, an equal number give the edge to Anubiis. The deciding factors for Anubiis are the legendary status of his third round, which is almost universally considered the best round of the battle, and the widespread fan criticism that Steams's material was heavily 'gassed' by his crew, making his reactions feel less organic.
In a Proving Grounds clash that has since been cemented as an underrated classic, Steams and Anubiis delivered a bar-heavy spectacle that is still debated years later. Steams, representing Brooklyn, came out of the gates with a relentless pace, unloading complex, multi-layered schemes that were amplified by a boisterous crew. His aggressive performance had the room rocking, though many viewers later argued his material was overhyped.
Anubiis, from Flint, weathered the early storm and methodically built his case. While his first two rounds were solid, his third round became the stuff of legend. He unleashed a perfectly crafted Dragon Ball Z scheme that created a massive moment and swung the momentum of the entire battle.
The fan verdict remains split down the middle; it's a quintessential style clash between Steams's consistent, high-difficulty pressure and Anubiis's iconic, show-stopping peak. For many, this battle represents the lyrical hunger and creative energy that defined a golden era of URL's rising talent.
- Anubiis's third round was universally praised as a classic performance, with many calling his Dragon Ball Z scheme an all-timer.
- The battle is widely considered an underrated classic and a bar-fest with immense replay value.
- Steams was commended for his intricate and complex wordplay, which many felt was ahead of its time.
- The heavy use of anime and video game references by both competitors was a major point of praise for fans.
- Both battlers were lauded for their hunger and for putting on a great show for the culture.
- A significant number of fans felt Steams's crew was 'gassing' him, creating manufactured hype for bars that weren't landing.
- Steams's rapid delivery was criticized by some for making his complex bars difficult to understand or appreciate in the moment.
- Several viewers found some of Steams's wordplay to be forced or reaching, particularly his 'Kamehameha' bar.
- A few comments noted that Anubiis's delivery and vocal tone were very similar to fellow Michigan battler JC.
- Some fans from Michigan pointed out that Steams was using Detroit-specific angles against Anubiis, who is from Flint.
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