Banksy's Mystery Rival Emerges

King Robbo, Graffiti Legend, Passes Away

King Robbo, a renowned British graffiti artist, died on July 31, 2014, after spending three years in a coma. His enigmatic identity and prolific career made his passing a significant loss for the street art community.

Robbo began his career in 1985 by covering a train carriage with graffiti. He quickly gained recognition as a pioneer of English street art, despite facing potential repercussions. Known as the undisputed master of graffiti, he became the leader of the Team Robbo crew, collaborating with artists like Doze, P.I.C., and Pransky.

His work initially appeared on train wagons and later spread to London walls before achieving international acclaim in galleries like the Pure Evil Gallery. The original Robbo Incorporated graffiti, located in Camden near Regent’s Canal, is now considered one of the oldest surviving murals in the city.

A feud between Robbo and Banksy emerged in 2009, with both artists claiming the other had previously insulted them. This conflict escalated in 2011, shortly before Robbo was found unconscious on the street with severe head injuries. He remained in a coma until his death three years later.

Following Robbo’s hospitalization, Banksy publicly acknowledged his rival with a mural depicting a copy of the Robbo Incorporated graffiti with a peace symbol. However, the two artists never officially reconciled.

The Team Robbo crew announced King Robbo’s death on their website, with Banksy confirming the news on his Facebook page.