It's radio wars for former mates Merrick and Rosso

THEY were once the closest of mates but now one-time comedy duo Merrick Watts and Tim "Rosso" Ross are set to go head-to-head.

THEY were once the fiercest of allies and the closest of mates but now one-time comedy duo Merrick Watts and Tim "Rosso" Ross are set to go head-to-head.

For the first time since they disbanded in 2009, the pair will helm rival radio shows in the same slot.

Watts' daily afternoon show The Highway Patrol on Triple M will be against Ross's new yet-to-be-named Mix FM drive show in the new year.

Adding spice are ongoing rumours the two former besties fell out in spectacular fashion three years ago, which sparked Ross's departure from the Merrick, Rosso and Kate breakfast show on Triple M.

Both have denied any bad blood remains, although Watts managed to sneak in a jab against his old sparring partner yesterday, saying he didn't expect Ross' new show to "make an impact" on his ratings.

"Look, I don't think it will have any impact. You could hardly find a more different audience so I expect the effect to be minimal," he told Confidential, adding his relationship with Rosso remains civil. "I wouldn't say we have a hostile relationship," he said. "We went in different directions. We got new jobs, had families. We just lead different lives."

And despite their three years as free agents, Watts admitted he still gets associated with his old comedy partner of 11 years.

"I was walking out of the butcher the other day and a guy goes; "Hey Rosco," he laughed. "But to have such a strong brand that still leaves a legacy is pretty cool."

Meanwhile, Watts found himself the subject of international news this week when his "carbecue" (a custom made car with a built-in BBQ) was featured on Live! With Kelly And Michael, the second-most-watched talk show in the US.