A social media post by Rihanna following the 2026 Met Gala has triggered fresh online debates between fans of Tyla and Ayra Starr.
The discussion intensified after videos from the Met Gala surfaced online showing Tyla standing near Rihanna at the event while the Barbadian star appeared occupied with another conversation. The clips quickly led to speculation among fans, with some suggesting Tyla was intentionally ignored by Rihanna.
The situation escalated when Rihanna later shared a video with Ayra Starr’s song ‘Who’s Dat Girl’ playing in the background, a move many social media users viewed as subtle shade directed at the South African singer.
NewsClick reports that despite the online speculation, both artistes have consistently dismissed rumours of any feud between them.
Tyla had earlier addressed the viral Met Gala moment during a TikTok interaction, stressing that there was no issue between her and Rihanna.
“Everyone knows I love RiRi. So this time, I was waiting for my car and she was right there but she looked busy, so I stayed back,” Tyla explained.
The South African artiste also spoke about a previous encounter with Rihanna, describing it as awkward but harmless.
“So I met her last year and she was cool. I went up to her and she was like, ‘Hey, my baby daddy’s calling me,’ and then she left. I felt awkward,” she said.
Ayra Starr has also previously dismissed attempts by fans to stir tension between the two singers.
“Tyla is my homegirl, that’s my G,” the Nigerian artiste said in an earlier interview while condemning the frequent comparisons between female musicians.
Meanwhile, reactions continued pouring in on X, formerly Twitter, as supporters from both sides shared opinions on the trending topic.
@lola_vibez wrote, “Using Ayra Starr’s song after all the Tyla drama? Rihanna definitely knew what she was doing.”
Another user, @culturetalks247, posted, “This is why stan wars never end. One background song and the internet has created a whole movie.”
@bigTuna_01 tweeted, “Rihanna no even talk anything but internet don already write full script. Na wa for una.”
Meanwhile, @NaijaCruiseHQ posted, “Tyla fans go dey vex tire. RiRi just use Ayra song finish everywhere scatter.”
Despite repeated efforts by both artistes to calm tensions, fan communities across Nigeria and South Africa continue to drive heated online discussions around streaming figures, global recognition, and influence within Afrobeats and Amapiano music.
