Young Thug has clarified his position on Lil Durk following leaked jail calls that raised questions about their relationship.

The internet was inundated with a multitude of audio recordings supposedly captured when Thugger was incarcerated over the past week. The Atlanta-based rapper seemed to express frustration in one conversation over the fact that Lil Durk was not responding to their requests or sending verses for potential collaborative projects. “Thug says he’s already sent him a few songs, but he’s taking four to five days, and man, you’ve done too much stuff for him.” He also accused a prominent Chicago drill artist of posting negative comments about him on the internet.

The leaked clip seemed to provide context to another call that occurred in 2023, around the time BUSINESS IS BUSINESS was released. Thug in that recording asked both Lil Durk and Lil Baby to respond to Gunna on his LP as opposed to individually. “I’m releasing a surprise album on the same day that they are dropping theirs.” Send your poem over, man. The Young Stoner Life Records frontman said he wanted him and Wham to be on the same song.

Neither of the artists involved ultimately contributed to the project, however BUSINESS IS BUSINESS did feature guest appearances from Drake, 21 Savage, Travis Scott and Future, among a larger group of additional artists.

The renewed focus on their recent collaboration sparked speculation that Young Thug and Lil Durk’s working relationship had cooled. The “Digits” rapper pointed out in the conversation that he had previously contributed to boosting Lil Durk’s career, which lent credence to his apparent disappointment. His comments implied that the two parties had explored collaboration but ultimately failed to follow through.

Bashing me only goin fuck that rap community up more, I’m the blue to this fake ass game

— Young Thug ひ (@youngthug) September 3, 2025

All yall new junkies in otf, just know I’m the one sent Brian steel to help him on my dime

— Young Thug ひ (@youngthug) September 3, 2025

Young Thug took to X after the renewed attention to claim he’s been backing Lil Durk, not at odds with him. He sent a message to the Chicago rapper’s crew, saying, “All of you new OTF members, be aware that I’m the one who paid Brian Steel to assist him.” He then posted another tweet with a more comprehensive perspective: “Criticism directed at me will only further damage the rap community.” I’m the glue that holds this fake game together.