Burger King introduces rival to McRib

McDonald's and Burger King have long held a rivalry. But there is one McDonald's that has always stood alone in its category -- until now.

USA Today reported that Burger King will announce its BK Rib Sandwich to compete with the popular McRib.

The sandwich, like the McRib, is boneless. It is served with a tangy sauce and bread and butter pickles on a sweet bun. The McRib has barbecue sauce, pickles and onions.

McRib fans have been fiercely loyal to the point of creating a McRib locator map where users can report sightings of the ephemeral sandwich. The McRib is only available for a short time each year.

BurgerBusiness.com said that the BK Rib sandwich "can be seen as an answer to rival McDonald's popular McRib."

Only time will tell whether the BK Rib sandwich can outstrip the McRib. Burger King also plans to introduce a barbecue-heavy menu, including barbecue salad and two barbecue sandwiches: Memphis Pulled Pork and Carolina BBQ. Last summer's sweet potato fries will make a comeback as well.

The BK Rib Sandwich will cost $3.50 alone or $5.60 in a combo meal, according to Fox St. Louis. BK will begin selling the sandwich on May 21.