Westside Gunn on Legacy, Wrestling & His Final Rap Chapter | XXL
Westside Gunn, co-founder of Griselda Records, is navigating a multifaceted career that extends beyond music, driven by a desire to leave a lasting impact on culture before potentially stepping away from the rap game. The 43-year-old artist from Buffalo, New York, has become known for bridging the gap between hip-hop and other creative fields, including fashion and professional wrestling.
A Legacy Forged in Multiple Arenas
Gunn’s journey began with a passion for fashion on the East Side of New York’s Nickel City. While he didn’t initially aim to be a rapper, his creativity earned him respect within the music industry. He has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from the late DMX and MF Doom to contemporary stars like Travis Scott and Tyler, the Creator. Simultaneously, he’s secured major distribution deals with Jay-Z and Eminem while nurturing the careers of artists like Stove God Cooks and Armani Caesar.
Expanding Beyond Music
Gunn’s artistic interests aren’t limited to music. His catalogue often references the world of drug cartels, but he’s equally versed in high fashion, regularly attending Paris Fashion Week, and the intricacies of professional wrestling. This year, he released his critically acclaimed album, 12, collaborated with brands like Corteiz and Saucony, and launched a mixtape series to promote his wrestling company, Fourth Rope.
Currently preparing for his first international tour, Gunn discussed his ambitions and future plans in a recent interview. He expressed a desire to focus on his legacy, family, and health, pushing his art while he has the energy.
Fourth Rope: A New Passion
Fourth Rope, a Black-owned independent wrestling promotion, represents a significant passion project for Gunn. The name originated from his experience as a dedicated fan, feeling like a part of the action while sitting in the front row. He invested heavily in studying the sport, building relationships with wrestlers, and ultimately decided to create his own promotion with partner Smoke DZA. Fourth Rope shows, titled Heels Have Eyes, are designed to attract fans of both Griselda Records and professional wrestling, offering a unique and engaging experience.
Looking Ahead
In 2026, Gunn plans to release Awesome God 3 and a collaborative project with Stove God Cooks, titled Michelle Records. He also intends to continue pushing his fashion endeavors and expanding Fourth Rope. While he acknowledges the energy required to maintain this pace, he’s committed to delivering quality work. Gunn has indicated that Awesome God 3 may be his final album, after which he intends to focus on art, fashion, and supporting other artists.
Gunn also addressed the frequent speculation about tensions within Griselda Records, stating that he, Benny the Butcher, and Conway the Machine are all focused on their individual projects and careers. He acknowledged a shift towards curation in his own work, allowing his collaborators to flourish independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Westside Gunn’s new wrestling company called?
Westside Gunn’s wrestling company is called Fourth Rope, and its shows are titled Heels Have Eyes.
What album is Westside Gunn planning to release in March?
Westside Gunn is planning to release Awesome God 3 in March.
What other project is Westside Gunn working on with Stove God Cooks?
Westside Gunn is working on a project with Stove God Cooks called Michelle Records.
As Westside Gunn continues to build his legacy, what impact do you think his diverse creative pursuits will have on the future of hip-hop and beyond?