Patrick Wayne Stay, better known as legendary battle rapper Pat Stay, tragically passed away last weekend at age 36 following a stabbing in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A larger-than-life presence in the international battle rap community, Stay was a one-of-a-kind performer who was well-respected by his peers (from Eminem and Drake to Method Man and Royce da 5’9”) and adored by fans.

Here are eight essential moments where Stay’s wit, creativity and skills came to the fore on the rap battle circuit.