Joey Bada$$ continues to climb the ranks of the rap scene and at the top of the year, he received his first plaque, a gold certification for his “Devastated” single.

As he prepares to release his A.A.B.A. album, he has some lofty words about his legacy.

“I already know I’m a better rapper than 2Pac is,” the New York MC says to Genius. “That’s just facts. One-on-one battle, I’ll flame ‘Pac.”

Badass explains that each new generation should strive to challenge the legends.

“I believe every generation that comes after has the opportunity to outshine the previous generation,” he shares. “Because they gave you their best. Now, they set the bar. It was like, ‘Oh that was your best? Ok.'”

These comments are not made without homage to the West Coast icon. Badass lists 2Pac as one of his main influences and explains how he is carrying on the spirit that Mr. Shakur exemplified.

“I believe I am one of the minds that ‘Pac said will spark to change the world,” he says. “I believe I am one of those, but I’m probably not the one that’s gonna change the world, probably the one after me.”

[UPDATE] He also clarified his statements on Twitter, but stayed firmed on his claim.

When I said I was better than PAC (my favorite rapper of all time) I was refering to rap skill. Bar for bar. Not accolades or influence. — BADMON (@joeyBADASS) March 1, 2017

And I back myself 1000 times to that fact… media like twisting up the words but that's I meant when I said it for all you butt hurt bozos — BADMON (@joeyBADASS) March 1, 2017