Calif, Long Beach – March 1, 2026, Nipsey Hussle’s Marathon Burger opened up a new location in Long Beach.  The grand opening took an unexpected turn when 3 people were shot and 1 died. 

Nipsey Hussle, a rapper from Crenshaw California. Is known for his inspiration, dedication and perseverance.  Nipsey was a pillar in his community; he built clothing stores, real estate, and taught about ownership. He showed where someone could go by hustling and believing in themselves.

Nipsey was shot and killed outside of his Marathon clothing shop in March 2019. 

This tragedy left the community stunned. 

Although Nipsey’s physical body had passed his soul, legacy and life lessons live on. In March of 2025, to further solidify his legacy and mantra “The marathon continues” his family and team opened the first Marathon Burger on Melrose Boulevard. A second location in Venice and now a 3rd in Long Beach. 

Other rappers have followed in Nipsey’s footsteps educating and inspiring their own communities.

LaRussell, an independent rapper from the Bay Area, is someone who resonates with Nipsey’s messages in leaving behind a positive legacy. 

Much like Nipsey, LaRussell got popular for putting on for his community. LaRussell showed how people could still profit as independent artists, sharing life lessons, and showing what it means to know your value.

LaRussell, blew up for throwing concerts in his back yard of Vallejo, he represents his city and where he is from whether that be with lyrics or action in his community.

“He is very impactful; he laid the blueprint for independent artists in moving solo and building your own team” Said Abru LaRussell fan. 

Friday, March 6,  LaRussell decided to show love to a different community but one that still felt close to home.  LaRussell went to Marathon Burger in Long Beach and handed out 300 burgers and fries.

“You gotta come touch turf its a new spot and Ive been watching what they have been building. I love black Sam. I love Nip so I had to.” Said LaRussell

 LaRussell also reflected on Nipsey’s message and how his legacy is carrying on.

“I think his most powerful message is showing how capable a human is of growing and surviving in capable conditions, to come from where he came from and make it to where he made.. its 4 of these in existence because his legacy is still here and his spirit is still larger than life.” said LaRussell. 

The continued growth of Marathon Burger shows that Nipsey Hussle’s legacy is still alive, not just in business, but in the people he inspired. Even in moments of tragedy, the message he stood on—ownership, community, and perseverance—continues to reach and connect. 

Moments like LaRussell giving back in Long Beach highlight how Nipsey’s blueprint is being carried forward still. Artists and entrepreneurs are no longer just chasing success, but building foundations for others to follow.

As the Marathon continues, it becomes a symbol of resilience and purpose. And despite the violence that marked its Long Beach opening, the larger story remains one of unity, growth, and legacy.

Because as Nipsey always preached, the marathon continues.