pick a quarrel with (one)

To act or speak toward one in an aggressive or antagonistic way so as to provoke them into an argument or fight. I don't know why she was so critical of everything I said tonight—it's like she was trying to pick a quarrel with me or something. He's the kind of troll who just posts on the message board in order to pick a quarrel with other members. After 10 years of working in this bar, I know how to spot when someone is looking to pick a quarrel with other patrons.