Nicki Minaj and Cardi B have reignited their online rivalry, trading harsh insults that have shocked fans, Rema makes history as the only African artist on TIME 100 Next 2025, and Gaël Monfils announces his retirement from tennis following the 2026 season. Stay informed with our Rave News Digest, which condenses five of the biggest global news stories you need to know, saving you time while keeping you updated. Think of it as your daily news essential!
Here’s a summary of the top five trending news stories…
1. Nicki Minaj and Cardi B escalate feud with insults about their children
42-year-old Nicki Minaj lashes out at Cardi B’s 7-year-old daughter Kulture Kiari Cephus on her son’s 5th birthday. pic.twitter.com/80u0jMPavU
— Pop Stuff (@ThePopStuff) October 1, 2025
The long-standing feud between rap icons Nicki Minaj and Cardi B took a disturbingly personal turn late Monday night (September 30). What began as a customary exchange of lyrical barbs exploded into ugly personal attacks, with the two artists making shocking comments about each other’s children. As Minaj took shots at Cardi’s pregnancy during the celebration of her son’s fifth birthday, Cardi fired back, warning Minaj to refrain from involving her kids in their dispute.
In a particularly contentious exchange, Minaj insulted Cardi’s daughter Kulture, labeling her a “Kulture vulture” and “ugly.” Cardi, in an emotional backlash, defended her daughter while suggesting that Minaj’s criticisms stemmed from jealousy regarding her own son, Papa Bear, who is reportedly nonverbal. The accusations intensified with Cardi describing Papa Bear’s behavior in detail, igniting discussions about ableism within rap culture. The night ended with both rappers logging off, leaving a stunned fanbase questioning the consequences of their feud.
2. Rema recognized on TIME 100 Next 2025 list
Nigerian singer Rema shines on the 2025 TIME100 list as the only African artist featured. pic.twitter.com/EJwKV1F1ia
— Pop Base (@PopBase) September 30, 2025
Afrobeats sensation Rema has broken barriers by becoming the only African artist to be included in the 2025 TIME100 Next list. This prestigious recognition highlights emerging leaders and influencers across various fields, marking a pivotal moment for African music. Rema’s global hit single “Calm Down,” particularly the remix featuring Selena Gomez, skyrocketed his fame as it surpassed one billion streams, underscoring the rise of Afrobeats on the international stage.
Grammy-winning artist Angélique Kidjo, who wrote Rema’s profile for the TIME100 Next, praised him for elevating Afrobeats to new heights and compared him to musical legends like Fela Kuti. His recognition not only serves to acknowledge his individual success but also represents a cultural milestone for African artists worldwide.
3. U.S. government shutdown confirmed
Breaking News: The U.S. government is officially shut down after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. Hundreds of thousands of workers are being sent home without pay. https://t.co/q0caziSzXd pic.twitter.com/vEwubNgeNm
— The New York Times (@nytimes) October 1, 2025
The United States government has officially entered a shutdown that commenced at 12:01 a.m. EDT on Wednesday after a bipartisan agreement couldn’t be reached in Congress. The shutdown arises with the new fiscal year, leaving nearly 750,000 federal employees facing furlough without pay, while essential workers remain on duty without compensation.
Many federal programs will be adversely affected, including those from agencies like FEMA and the IRS, leading to interruptions in services and operational halts. The White House has alerted agencies about potential mass layoffs if funding issues persist, which Democrats have denounced as tactics of intimidation. The deadlock comes as Republicans and Democrats grapple over budget priorities, particularly the debate surrounding Medicaid funding pushed by former President Donald Trump.
4. Young Thug announces split from Mariah The Scientist
Young Thug confirms the end of his relationship with singer Mariah The Scientist.
“I got broke up with, but I still got a girl. She probably don’t got a boyfriend, but I got a girl.” pic.twitter.com/nY6rjxVBXN— Kollege Kidd (@KollegeKidd) October 1, 2025
Young Thug opened up about his personal life during a recent livestream with Adin Ross, confirming his breakup with singer Mariah The Scientist. While discussing past events, he remarked, “I got broke up with,” highlighting that although he is single, he isn’t completely without companionship.
The couple’s relationship was heavily scrutinized during Young Thug’s incarceration, where Mariah consistently showed her support. Speculations of infidelity, revealed through leaked conversations, seemed to punctuate their relationship’s downfall. During the livestream, Thug also explored the current Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar debate, aligning himself with Drake due to the rapper’s broader influence, while still praising Kendrick as a major force in the industry.
5. Gaël Monfils announces retirement from tennis
Gaël Monfils is set to retire from professional tennis at the close of the 2026 season. pic.twitter.com/pBGh58O6pg
— Gaël Monfils (@Gael_Monfils) October 1, 2025
Esteemed French tennis player Gaël Monfils has revealed plans to retire at the end of the 2026 season, concluding a 21-year career characterized by extraordinary talent and showmanship. At 39 years of age, Monfils recently made headlines by winning the Auckland Open, thus becoming the oldest ATP Tour singles champion in history.
As a two-time Grand Slam semi-finalist and having secured 13 ATP titles, Monfils once achieved a world ranking as high as No. 6. Reflecting on his journey, Monfils expressed gratitude for turning a childhood passion into a professional career while playing alongside legendary tennis icons such as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. He leaves a legacy filled with electrifying entertainment and zeal for the sport that will inspire the next generation of tennis players.
Featured image: @nickiminaj @iamcardib/Instagram
Our Weekday News Digest provides a curated selection of the most compelling global stories. This week, we dive into the latest celebrity headlines, explore urgent world news, and highlight exciting sports developments shaping 2025.
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