photos from the mtv vmas show

VMA vet Lil’ Wayne and newcomer 2 Chainz tear through a performance of “Yuck” with plenty of swag to spare.

Taylor Swift goes for a ride during her show-closing performance of her latest hit, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.”

Though host Kevin Hart looks a bit more excited, it’s actually Rihanna who just won the Moonman for “Video of the Year.” Trust us.

After making several additions to her red carpet look, “Best Female Video” winner Nicki Minaj rocks the mic with her usual authority.

A pair of eclectic styles take centerstage as Wiz Khalifa and Ke$ha prepare to hand out a Moonman.

Following a show-opening performance of “We Found Love,” Rihanna gladly accepts the Moonman for “Video of the Year” for her Calvin Harris team-up.

Chris Brown takes home the Moonman for “Best Male Video” thanks to support for “Turn Up the Music.”

Just after presenting a Moonman, the USA Olympic gymnast team takes part in a unique performance of “Girl On Fire” with Alicia Keys.

Chart-topping diva Pink is all smiles as she makes a unique entrance into the VMA fun.

Hip-hop/R&B pretty boy Drake is all smiles taking home the award for “Best Hip-Hop Video” via the Lil’ Wayne collab, “HYFR.”

One Direction’s Niall Horan was the (very) lucky recipient of the award for Best Pop Video, with Katy Perry presenting.

Following a slight wardrobe change, Lil’ Wayne heads onstage to accept the Moonman for “Best Hip-Hop Video” alongside collaborator/BFF Drake.

Lil’ Wayne shows off his camo-print boxers in one of the VMAs’ most memorable stage dives.

Host Kevin Hart certainly wasn’t afraid to get up-close and personal with the VMA crowd, going for a stage dive in the early going.

Rihanna and 2 Chainz get up close and personal during the VMAs’ big opening.

Just after capturing an early Moonman, “The X-Factor”‘s Demi Lovato breaks into a high-energy rendition of “Give Your Heart a Break.”