FlipTop initially gained criticism for its use of strong language, mockery and bullying, prompting the city government of Makati to ban rap battles in the area.

Due to its freestyle and rhymed content, some academics consider it as modern-day "balagtasan" although some rap artists discourage the idea.

[14][15][16][17] Some emcees involved in FlipTop have gained commercial success like Abra,[18] Dello, Loonie, Smugglaz, Shehyee, and others, which caught media attention.

Sinio's harsh words about Ann Mateo received mixed reactions, and became a hot topic on social media.

Dopee and his partner Snob was caught in their DosPorDos battle reading their lyrics on a piece of paper for a few seconds.