Elon Musk vs. Mark Zuckerberg: The battle of the billionaires.

The conflict between the CEO of Tesla and Facebook had been simmering for years before escalating into a martial arts duel a few days ago.

In recent days, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has attracted attention by challenging Facebook owner Mark Zuckerberg. The incident stemmed from news that MetaPlatforms was preparing to launch Threads – a competitor to Twitter. Musk subsequently expressed concern that the world would be manipulated by Zuckerberg.

When a Twitter user warned Musk that Zuckerberg had a passion for martial arts, he responded, "I'm ready for a fight if he wants." On June 22, Zuckerberg wrote on Instagram, "Give me the address." Musk then suggested a location in Las Vegas.

Even if the two billionaires don't actually meet in the ring, this latest development illustrates the growing competition for business advantages, particularly in the battle for advertising revenue on social media.

Analysts say it's too early to say whether Meta and Twitter will create a famous brand war like Ford-Chevrolet and Coke-Pepsi of the last century. But it's clear that the owners of these companies are ready for a fight.

The Wall Street Journal noted that the conflict between Musk and Zuckerberg has been simmering for years. Both have frequently publicly expressed opposing views on AI (artificial intelligence) and many other topics.

WSJ sources say that in private conversations, they also complained about each other. Musk—who is always short on cash—said Zuckerberg made money too easily with software, while he struggled with electric cars and rockets. Conversely, Zuckerberg wanted to be admired by the world for his creativity, like Musk.

Elon Musk (left) and Mark Zuckerberg. Photo: Reuters/AP

Signs of conflict between the two billionaires emerged in 2016, when SpaceX—Musk's aerospace company—was tasked with launching a satellite into space to help Facebook provide internet service in sub-Saharan Africa. However, an explosion on the ground during the test launch destroyed both the rocket and the satellite, disrupting Zuckerberg's ambitions.

"I am deeply disappointed to hear that SpaceX's failed rocket launch destroyed our satellite. This satellite could have provided connectivity for many people and startup entrepreneurs in Africa," he wrote.

A year later, they debated artificial intelligence again. In a video posted on Facebook, Zuckerberg said: "With AI, I'm really optimistic. I think the detractors are trying to paint a doomsday picture. I don't quite understand it. It's too negative and irresponsible."

Musk later countered on Twitter: "I've spoken to Mark about this. His understanding of this area is quite limited." Musk has frequently expressed concerns about AI. In March, he said he was "stressed about AI."

In 2018, when Meta was embroiled in a data leak scandal and faced a wave of account deletions, Musk also tweeted about the issue. Tesla and SpaceX – companies where he serves as CEO – also deleted their Facebook accounts. "Facebook scares me," Musk wrote.

In early 2020, Musk continued his call to delete Facebook. This move came after British comedian Sacha Baron Cohen called on Facebook to strengthen its content moderation policies.

Not only have they clashed with each other, but both billionaires have also had verbal spats with many others. Musk is famous for using Twitter to mock billionaires like Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, and Warren Buffett. However, he has never actually challenged them to a duel.

For years, Zuckerberg has complained that Apple CEO Tim Cook makes public comments that are unfavorable to Facebook. Apple's changes to its privacy settings have also made it more difficult for the social network to monetize user data.

The events of the past few days have extended the years-long conflict between Musk and Zuckerberg. Product director Chris Cox said this month that Threads was inspired by users who wanted a social media platform that was "healthily regulated." This is reminiscent of Twitter.

Since taking over Twitter last October, Musk has faced numerous challenges, including clients withdrawing their advertising due to concerns about the platform's instability. In response, Musk stated that the changes he made at Twitter were solely aimed at reducing costs to avoid bankruptcy.

He asserted that the company was on track to achieve positive cash flow. He also chose Linda Yaccarino, a veteran advertising executive worldwide, as Twitter's CEO to improve customer relationships.

Currently, as internet users become increasingly interested in the feud between the two billionaires, Maye Musk – the mother of the electric car tycoon – has to find a way to calm the situation. On June 22nd, she offered a solution: "Just a verbal sparring match. Sit in armchairs, 1.2 meters apart. Whoever is funnier wins."

However, Musk seemed unfazed. He continued to respond to the encouragement. "If the opponent accepts, I'm ready to go to the ring," he said.

Ha Thu (according to WSJ)

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