“Preventable Death: Ja Rule Expresses His Disappointment”

It has been two months since the untimely passing of Irv Gotti at the age of 54. His family, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their heartfelt tributes during a moving memorial service held on February 19. Among those who spoke was Ja Rule, a close associate and former artist of the iconic Murder Inc. label. He has since opened up about the profound impact of Gotti’s death and his feelings of regret regarding how it might have been prevented, shedding light on the complexities of their relationship.

RELATED: Long Live! Ja Rule Shares Heartfelt Tribute During Irv Gotti’s Funeral Service (VIDEO)

Ja Rule Reflects on Grieving Irv Gotti’s Loss and Its Impact

On April 10, an interview with Ja Rule aired on The Breakfast Club, where he discussed a variety of topics, including the challenges of fatherhood, his entrepreneurial ventures, the enduring legacy of Murder Inc., and the deep bond he shared with Irv. During the interview, host Charlamagne Tha God expressed uncertainty about whether it was appropriate to ask questions related to death. Ja Rule, however, reassured him, highlighting his understanding of the duality of life and death. He mentioned that he experiences fluctuating emotions regarding the loss of someone he regarded as a brother.

“I know that my brother lived to die; he lived his life. So I can find solace in knowing that, but the suddenness of it all has left me deeply hurt.”

In a follow-up question, DJ Envy inquired whether Ja Rule regretted not being more insistent with Irv about his health concerns. Ja Rule responded candidly, conveying that convincing Gotti to change his lifestyle was an uphill battle. He shared that his last text to Irv included inquiries about his well-being and health status.

“He was steadfast in his approach to living life. My last message to him was: ‘Yo, how are you doing? Are you taking care of yourself? How’s your health? How are you feeling?’” Ja Rule recounted.

He continued by stating that Irv assured him he was doing well, but reiterated that Gotti lived life on his own terms. “That’s the essence of Irv. I find comfort in knowing he lived life fully, but there’s a lingering disappointment in my heart because I believe he could still be here with us,” Ja revealed.

Despite his feelings of disappointment, Ja Rule also expressed that Irv Gotti’s passing has provided him with valuable insights into various aspects of life. “It has truly put things into perspective. It has reshaped my views on life, health, and even financial priorities,” he reflected. “At the end of the day, money means nothing if your health isn’t in check. You can’t truly enjoy your life without good health.”

RELATED: Ashanti Discusses Irv Gotti’s Death & Speculates on Potential Reconciliation (WATCH)