14-8-2023 (SAN FRANCISCO) The ongoing rivalry between billionaire tech moguls Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk escalated further on Sunday (Aug 13), as the founders of Meta and X (formerly Twitter) exchanged new online taunts. The social media titans engaged in a light-hearted feud centered around a proposed charity cage match.
Zuckerberg took to his Threads social platform to express his frustration with Musk’s perceived lack of seriousness about the proposed match. “I think we can all agree Elon isn’t serious and it’s time to move on,” Zuckerberg wrote. He cited Musk’s reluctance to confirm a date, followed by claims of needing surgery and a suggestion for a practice round in Zuckerberg’s backyard instead.
Musk quickly fired back on his own platform, X. “Zuck is a chicken,” Musk posted confidently, asserting his readiness for the anticipated face-off. He announced his intention to visit Silicon Valley on Monday, humorously adding, “Can’t wait to bang on his door tomorrow.”
Amidst the banter, a user on X hinted that Zuckerberg might be having second thoughts about the match, prompting Musk to playfully reference the popular US fast-food chain Chick-fil-A known for its chicken-based menu. “He can’t eat at Chick-fil-A because that would be cannibalism,” Musk quipped.
The rivalry between the two tech moguls has been brewing for some time, with discussions of a charity boxing match adding a playful twist. Musk revealed on Friday that the much-discussed match would potentially take place in Italy. He indicated that authorities in Italy were engaged in talks about hosting a “great charity event.”
Musk mentioned, “I spoke to the PM of Italy and Minister of Culture,” referring to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. “They have agreed on an epic location.” Responding to this, Zuckerberg posted a shirtless photo of himself pinning down an opponent in an “backyard octagon.” A practitioner of martial arts and jiujitsu, Zuckerberg affirmed his readiness for the match and stated, “I’ve been ready to fight since the day Elon challenged me.”
Despite the humorous exchanges, Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano confirmed discussions with Musk about organizing a charitable event, emphasizing that the match would not be held in Rome. Sangiuliano highlighted the philanthropic aspect of the event, noting that proceeds from the event would be donated to Italian pediatric hospitals.
