David Ochayi
(Rihana. Photo credit: forbes)
Rihanna inadvertently reignited tensions between Tyla and Ayra Starr’s fanbases with a single social media post following the 2026 Met Gala.
The controversy escalated after footage from the event circulated online, capturing Tyla standing near Rihanna while the global superstar appeared engrossed in another conversation. Speculation ran wild, with some fans accusing Rihanna of deliberately snubbing the South African artist.
Fuel was added to the fire when Rihanna later shared a clip soundtracked by Ayra Starr’s hit track “Who’s Dat Girl,” prompting social media users to interpret it as a veiled dig at Tyla.
Despite the online frenzy, both artists have consistently denied any bad blood between them.
Tyla addressed the Met Gala moment in a TikTok video, clarifying that there was no animosity. “Everyone knows I love RiRi,” she said. “She was right there while I waited for my car, but she seemed busy, so I kept my distance.”
The Grammy-winning singer also recalled an earlier encounter with Rihanna, describing it as awkward but harmless. “Last year, she was super sweet when we met. But when I approached her, she suddenly said, ‘Hey, my baby daddy’s calling me,’ and walked off. It was a bit uncomfortable,” Tyla admitted.
Ayra Starr, meanwhile, has repeatedly shut down attempts to pit her against Tyla. In a past interview, the Mavin Records star dismissed comparisons, stating, “Tyla is my homegirl—that’s my G.”
Nevertheless, the online debate raged on, with fans flooding X (formerly Twitter) with reactions.
“Rihanna really played Ayra’s song after all the Tyla drama? She knew exactly what she was doing,” tweeted @lola_vibez.
Another user, @culturetalks247, quipped, “Stan wars thrive on crumbs—a background song and the internet writes a whole screenplay.”
“Rihanna stays silent while y’all script entire dramas,” commented @bigTuna_01. “Una no dey tire?”
Meanwhile, @NaijaCruiseHQ teased, “Tyla stans are fuming. RiRi just dropped the ultimate Ayra Starr soundtrack and left.”
Despite both artists downplaying any rivalry, fan communities continue to spar over streaming numbers, global accolades, and influence in the Afrobeats and Amapiano scenes.
