Technically Kendrick can be argued as having taken the first shot. “Muthafukk the big three. Its just ME!” Is literally a direct response to words Cole spit not Drake.
I’m sure the convo between Cole and Kendrick that made Cole step down was an explanation that that line was Drake specifically but no matter what Cole had the right to respond. He just tried to be on some bigger man shyt when the MOMENT called for him to either remain neutral or go to war. The nikka tried to do both and it still comes off as week.
Nap King Cole was shooting at Kendrick before then, he deserved worse than he got honestly and it sounds like he's asking to get tagged again.