Marlon Wayans Explains Why He Stepped Back From 50 Cent

Marlon Wayans is opening up about his brief but headline making back and forth with 50 Cent, explaining why he ultimately chose restraint over escalation.

While appearing on Rap Attack with AJ Showtime and DJ Twisted, Wayans reflected on the moment fans watched him seemingly go toe to toe with the rap mogul. According to Wayans, the situation never crossed into real beef, even though he admits he was fully prepared.

“I had jokes,” Wayans said, revealing he had more than 150 lines ready, ranging from light to heavy. He even joked that he had a full “war room” of comedian friends locked and loaded. Still, he made the decision to step back.

Wayans explained that the choice came down to intention and legacy. He shared that he and 50 Cent have met, talked business, and exist as two successful Black men operating at a high level. Turning that energy into a public feud, he said, simply did not make sense.

“This is checkers, not chess,” Wayans said, adding that avoiding unnecessary conflict can be a win on its own. He stressed that too often Black men are pulled into emotional battles that offer no real reward, while distracting from opportunities to build and collaborate.

Rather than trading shots, Wayans said his mind immediately went to solutions. Turning tension into creativity. Turning attention into business. Turning moments into ownership.

The comedian also made it clear there was no animosity toward 50 Cent, describing him as someone he respects. For Wayans, the situation was never about ego. It was about choosing growth over spectacle.

In the end, Wayans said maturity is knowing when not to fight. Sometimes the smartest move is stepping away, thinking several moves ahead, and protecting the bigger picture.