After 58 years in power, Qi Jinggong's domestic security was relatively stable and he died of natural causes. But because there was no son, the scholars behind him launched a fierce battle for the throne.
In 548 BC, Duke Zhuang of Qi was killed by Cui Yao and others for having an affair with Cui Yao's wife Dong. After the death of Hou Zhuanggong in Qi Huangong, Cui Yao adopted Chu Jiu, the half-brother of Hou Zhuanggong, as Qi Jinggong's successor.