The rivalry between 'X Factor' judges Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh heated up last night (October 24) as Cowell referred to his Irish colleague as “smug” and “arrogant”.

Speaking to Konnie Huq on ITV2’s 'Xtra Factor' on Sunday evening, following the elimination of Walsh’s act John Adeleye, Cowell said: "I just said to Louis, you are not quite as smug as you were last night.”

Meanwhile, Cowell’s own acts survived elimination saying: “I had a feeling watching the show last night, the boys and girls [One Direction and Belle Amie] did enough."

Simon did however have sympathy for nursing home worker Adeleye, whose likeable personality has won fans. He added: "Look, I feel sorry for John and he is a great guy. But it's been great exposure for him and he'll do really well."

Watch John sing "A Song For You" below: