2000s Superstars Dazzle at 2025 MTV VMAs: Mariah Rocks Vanguard, Ricky and Busta Light Up the Stage

Let’s talk about jaw-dropping nostalgia, the VMAs felt like a reunion bash for anyone who grew up singing along to pop and hip-hop’s biggest names. Mariah Carey finally landed her first (yes, first, believe it or not) competitive VMA (yes, really), grabbing Best R&B for “Type Dangerous.” But the true showstopper came when Ariana Grande presented Mariah with her Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. What followed was an unforgettable medley: Mariah strutted onto the stage in a glittering catsuit, delivering chart-topping classics like “Honey,” “Heartbreaker,” “Obsessed,” and “We Belong Together”. Fans and celebs cheered as Mariah joked, “What in the Sam Hill were you waiting for?”—throwing playful shade at MTV for taking over three decades to honor her with a competitive Moon Person.

Busta Rhymes got everyone moving with an explosive performance and accepted the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, paying tribute to LL Cool J and his MTV mentors. Ricky Martin—now MTV’s first official Latin Icon- amplified the energy with his classic hits, bringing the crowd to its feet with “Livin’ la Vida Loca” and “The Cup of Life.” His emotional acceptance reminded fans and industry folks why he remains a global icon.

The night, of course, wasn’t just about these icons. Lady Gaga took home Artist of the Year, Ariana Grande’s “Brighter Days Ahead” scored Video of the Year, and newcomers like Alex Warren were recognized.

From Mariah’s long-awaited victory to Ricky and Busta’s epic tributes, the VMAs made it clear: 2000s stars are here to stay, and nobody does a comeback better than these legends. Every moment felt bigger and bolder—just how pop culture should be.