On Saturday (Dec. 12), sad news broke that Keyshia Cole and Ashanti’s highly anticipated Verzuz was canceled because the former Murder Inc. recording artist tested positive for Coronavirus.
“Hey y’all. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I tested positive for COVID-19. I’m OK and not in any pain. I’m actually down to do the Verzuz from my house…we’re trying to figure it out,” Ashanti admitted on her Instagram account. Needless to say, fans were extremely disappointed after learning this. They were also concerned for the star, and were quick to wish her a speedy recovery.
For months now, fans have been waiting for a showdown between the two talents. Cole initiated the excitement back in May of this year when she teased a Verzuz showdown with Ashanti on Instagram. Fast forward seven months later and on Wednesday Dec. 2, the “Love” singer confirmed that she would, indeed, be going head to head someone on Verzuz. “How are you guys LONG TIME NO HEAR!!!” she said on social media. “Verzuz BATTLE OTW.” It wasn’t confirmed until a couple of days later that her opponent would be Ashanti.
After learning of this new Verzuz, fans began acting a fool(ish) on Twitter and Instagram. The memes were legendary, as many people begged Cole to bring back her gap for the Verzuz, and pleaded with Ashanti to battle with her sideburns. Other reactions had to do specifically with their hits. “All Keyshia Cole have is hits!! Don’t play with her,” one person tweeted. “Keyshia Cole with the red and blonde hair was an era that I’ll forever stan,” another wrote.
Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait another day to see an epic showdown between the two R&B legends. But, not too long. Verzuz has officially announced the new date for the ladies’ Verzuz, which will be on Saturday, Jan. 9.
Its IG post read: “Unfortunately, we have to postpone tonight’s @Ashanti vs @KeyshiaCole #VERZUZ. Ashanti tested positive for COVID-19 beforehand, and we cannot put anyone at risk in the process. First time this has struck us so close to showtime. We apologize to our incredible audience!Get well soon, Ashanti. Wear a mask, stay inside, and take COVID-19 seriously. It’s truly affecting our community.” See it below.