Snoop Dogg Hailed as ‘King of Rap’ for AFL Grand Final Pre-Game Show at MCG

Snoop Dogg Crowned ‘King of Rap’ After Electrifying AFL Grand Final Performance

Snoop Dogg delivered a show-stopping performance at the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne, earning praise as the “King of Rap” from fans worldwide. The 53-year-old hip-hop legend powered through a nine-song set, blending classics like The Next Episode and Drop It Like It’s Hot with surprise collaborations, cementing his status as a global icon.

High-Energy Setlist and Star Collaborations
Dressed in a crisp white tracksuit, Snoop kicked off the show with Dr. Dre collaborations The Next Episode and Nothing But A ‘G’ Thang, hyping the crowd alongside a Super Bowl-style marching band. Australian artists Jessica Mauboy and Baker Boy joined him for renditions of Beautiful and Still D.R.E., while multi-instrumentalist Tash Sultana added fiery guitar riffs to Who Am I (What’s My Name?). The set closed with pyrotechnics during Gin and Juice, leaving the audience in awe.

[Image: Snoop Dogg performing in a white tracksuit, flames erupting on stage. Caption: Snoop Dogg closed his AFL Grand Final set with pyrotechnics during Gin and Juice.]

Mixed Reactions from Fans
While social media buzzed with praise—“The King of Rap!” and “Snoop gave us Super Bowl vibes”—some criticized the AFL’s choice. Detractors called the performance “unwatchable” or mismatched for a daytime sports event. Others defended the rapper, with one fan joking, “Snoop is better than Meat Loaf,” referencing the late singer’s infamous 2011 AFL flop.

[Image: Fans cheering with Snoop Dogg on the big screen. Caption: Snoop energized the crowd with a mix of classics and collaborations.]

Controversy and AFL’s Defense
The performance followed weeks of backlash over Snoop’s past lyrics and recent comments about same-sex relationships in kids’ films. Critics called the AFL hypocritical after suspending player Izak Rankine for a homophobic slur weeks earlier. CEO Andrew Dillon defended the $2 million booking, stating Snoop’s 2025 persona—a “grandfather and philanthropist”—aligns with the league’s values.

[Image: Snoop Dogg speaking on a podcast. Caption: Snoop faced scrutiny over remarks about LGBTQ+ representation in media.]

Melbourne Visit and Footy Skills
Before the game, Snoop visited the MCG, kicking a goal with Collingwood stars Nick and Josh Daicos. In a viral video, he nailed a 35-meter kick, shouting, “That’s six points, baby!”—proving his talents extend beyond music.

[Image: Snoop Dogg kicking a football with the Daicos brothers. Caption: Snoop showcased his AFL skills ahead of the Grand Final.]

Despite divided opinions, Snoop’s performance underscored his enduring appeal, blending nostalgia with showmanship. As flames lit up the stage, the rapper reminded the world why he remains a cultural powerhouse.

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