When the stakes are high and Eminem’s watching, every rhyme counts — Season 2 of Rhythm + Flow ups the ante in its thrilling cypher episode.

In Episode 5 of Rhythm + Flow Season 2, Eminem joins an all-star panel of judges to oversee an intense cypher battle that leaves no room for weak bars. Set in the legendary basement of St. Andrews Hall in Detroit, 14 rappers face off, fighting to impress the hip-hop icon and advance to the next round.

With Latto, Royce 5’9, Mr. Porter, and host SMACK by his side, Eminem explains what he is looking for in a top-tier contender:

If I hear a rapper doing compound syllables, I immediately know this is a technician. And then there is stage presence and delivery. That’s what I look for.

The challenge is not just about raw talent — it is about precision, creativity, and the ability to own the stage. As the bars fly, only seven contestants make it through to the next round, but it is the world’s turn to judge. Who do you think brought the most heat?

Watch the episode and weigh in on the battles that had even Eminem nodding in approval.