Kim Bowman's blog

Chris Weidman, Demian Maia Looking to Climb Middleweight Ladder at UFC on Fox 2

Chris Weidman, Demian Maia Looking to Climb Middleweight Ladder at UFC on Fox 2
Chris Weidman stepped in to fight top middleweight Demian Maia Saturday's UFC on Fox 2 event on just a week's notice, but recently told the UFC that he isn't worried about the short-notice and instead sees it an opportunity to jump up the division ladder.

Chris Weidman stepped in to fight top middleweight Demian Maia Saturday’s UFC on Fox 2 event on just a week’s notice, but recently told the UFC that he isn’t worried about the short-notice and instead sees it an opportunity to jump up the division ladder:

“Taking the fight at a week’s notice wasn’t all that had a decision. I have an opportunity to gain a lot of recognition and get myself up to where I want to be. I was just about to eat a load of waffles when I got the call… I threw those waffles away. There was no chance I was going to pass this up, I want to get into the top five and here’s my chance. You only live once. I didn’t want to sit at home and watch some other guy fight on FOX in an opportunity I already had passed up.

I’m not worried about stepping up at all. I have a lot of respect for Demian’s jiu-jitsu, but if we go to the ground, I’m confident and excited to prove I can hang with my own BJJ. He’s going to have a lot to worry about, too, in this fight. I’m not the guy who’s going to be starstruck just because of the stage or the fact I am stepping up to this level. I believe in myself and I think I can go in there and submit him or stop him.”

Meanwhile, Maia has moved past the disappointment of not fighting Michael Bisping, who meets Chael Sonnen in the event’s co-headliner, and is embracing fighting the undefeated Weidman before he’s more experienced:

“I was disappointed to hear my fight with Bisping was off, but am happy to still be on the card on FOX. I’m ready to turn a negative into a positive, to control the part I can control, which is winning. A win over Bisping would have put me back in the world title picture, but Weidman is a dangerous young fighter and he knows a win over me put him in a great position.

Bisping actually apologized to me for taking the Sonnen fight, but I completely understand. I appreciated him saying that, but this is what we do and the sport we are in. Now I can’t think about Bisping. I have to think about Chris Weidman. I don’t know if it is possible for Weidman to be 100% fit after taking the fight at such short notice. I’m not sure, but I have to go in thinking with the mindset that he is 100%.

He is very dangerous, and I guess that I would rather fight him now than after he gets even better and more experienced. For sure, he will be very motivated. I am not going to lose at this stage though; I have worked too hard and expect a submission after a tough fight.”

For complete coverage of UFC on Fox 2 stay tuned to MMAFrenzy.com.

Pictured: Chris Weidman

David Lee Blaney Michael Duane Bliss Kurt Thomas Busch Kyle Thomas Busch Jeffrey Tyler Burton

Jan 29, 2012 5:01:18 AM

Chris Weidman, Demian Maia Looking to Climb Middleweight Ladder at UFC on Fox 2

Chris Weidman, Demian Maia Looking to Climb Middleweight Ladder at UFC on Fox 2
Chris Weidman stepped in to fight top middleweight Demian Maia Saturday's UFC on Fox 2 event on just a week's notice, but recently told the UFC that he isn't worried about the short-notice and instead sees it an opportunity to jump up the division ladder.

Chris Weidman stepped in to fight top middleweight Demian Maia Saturday’s UFC on Fox 2 event on just a week’s notice, but recently told the UFC that he isn’t worried about the short-notice and instead sees it an opportunity to jump up the division ladder:

“Taking the fight at a week’s notice wasn’t all that had a decision. I have an opportunity to gain a lot of recognition and get myself up to where I want to be. I was just about to eat a load of waffles when I got the call… I threw those waffles away. There was no chance I was going to pass this up, I want to get into the top five and here’s my chance. You only live once. I didn’t want to sit at home and watch some other guy fight on FOX in an opportunity I already had passed up.

I’m not worried about stepping up at all. I have a lot of respect for Demian’s jiu-jitsu, but if we go to the ground, I’m confident and excited to prove I can hang with my own BJJ. He’s going to have a lot to worry about, too, in this fight. I’m not the guy who’s going to be starstruck just because of the stage or the fact I am stepping up to this level. I believe in myself and I think I can go in there and submit him or stop him.”

Meanwhile, Maia has moved past the disappointment of not fighting Michael Bisping, who meets Chael Sonnen in the event’s co-headliner, and is embracing fighting the undefeated Weidman before he’s more experienced:

“I was disappointed to hear my fight with Bisping was off, but am happy to still be on the card on FOX. I’m ready to turn a negative into a positive, to control the part I can control, which is winning. A win over Bisping would have put me back in the world title picture, but Weidman is a dangerous young fighter and he knows a win over me put him in a great position.

Bisping actually apologized to me for taking the Sonnen fight, but I completely understand. I appreciated him saying that, but this is what we do and the sport we are in. Now I can’t think about Bisping. I have to think about Chris Weidman. I don’t know if it is possible for Weidman to be 100% fit after taking the fight at such short notice. I’m not sure, but I have to go in thinking with the mindset that he is 100%.

He is very dangerous, and I guess that I would rather fight him now than after he gets even better and more experienced. For sure, he will be very motivated. I am not going to lose at this stage though; I have worked too hard and expect a submission after a tough fight.”

For complete coverage of UFC on Fox 2 stay tuned to MMAFrenzy.com.

Pictured: Chris Weidman

Hilarie Burton Joss Stone Adrianne Palicki David Carl Allison Gregory Jack Biffle

Jan 29, 2012 5:01:14 AM

Photos | 2012 Grammy Nominees

2012 Grammy Nominees

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Jan 29, 2012 3:02:01 AM

Ke$ha Drops Lil Wayne, T.I., Wiz Khalifa 'Sleazy' Remix

Remix also features Andre 3000 and is a bit racier than the original track.
By Jocelyn Vena

Ke$ha performs at Bayfront Park Amphitheater on August 7, 2011 in Miami, Florida.
Photo: Larry Marano/ Getty Images

As promised, Ke$ha and her boys Lil Wayne, T.I., Wiz Khalifa and Andre 3000 dropped a new remix of "Sleazy" on Tuesday (December 13).

The Bangladesh-produced song originally appeared on K-Dollar's 2010 Cannibal album before a remix featuring Andre popped up earlier this year. The latest version of the song is available for purchase and is all over blogs like Rap-Up.com. The song gets a bit dirtier and introspective thanks to verses from the guys that play up the track's bumping beat. Wiz kicks it off, rapping about designer clothes and his lady love, Amber Rose. "OK, I'm young and I'm tatted/ I get them bucks like an addict/ Rocking this Christian Dior/ I spend so much on my fabric/ I got a wifey at home/ And what she wants she can have it," he spits before going on about chilling on the beach, being rich and his prowess in the bedroom. Sitting in between Wiz and Tip is Andre's recycled verse, before T.I. gets his shot and gets sexy, asking Ke$ha, "Do you know what to do with me?" before he launches into a verse all about how good he is to the ladies. "Bad bitches know me/ So don't bother introducing me/ They want me more than diamonds," he brags before explaining that it has a lot to do with his impressive anatomy. Wayne closes it out, adding his own signature flair. "We be on that sh-- that no one be on/ That's what we on/ Smoke that neon, Kings of Leon/ Dynamite, Napoleon/ Got some skinnies and a tee on/ And some Vans," he rhymes about his famous sense of Weezy-fied style before the song circles back to the funky chorus, where Ke$ha declares that she doesn't "need you or your brand-new Benz/ Or your bougie friends/ I don't need love lookin' like diamonds/ Lookin' like diamonds." If any of K's fans or critics were wondering if she has the swagger to chill with the guys, she displayed some of her sass when she tweeted about the remix. "Question ANIMALS ... who can say they got with Lil Wayne, T.I., Andre 3000 and Wiz Khalifa on a f---ing hot track??" she asked. "ill give u one clue ... Its $." What do you think of the "Sleazy" remix? Tell us in the comments!

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Jan 29, 2012 1:01:28 AM

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Jan 29, 2012 1:01:27 AM

'Man On A Ledge': A Man, A Ledge And 'So Much More'

Stars of the film talk to MTV News about the thriller surrounding 'a desperate man in a desperate situation.'
By Kara Warner

Sam Worthington and Jamie Bell in "Man on a Ledge"
Photo: Summit Entertainment

While some filmmakers go the mysterious or fanciful route with their titles, there are just as many who tell their prospective audiences exactly what they're going to see. "Man on a Ledge," which opened Friday (January 27), is about as literal a film title as you can get.

When MTV News caught up with the cast recently, we asked them to explain the inherent intrigue in the title, as well as why the film has so much more going for it than just a man and a ledge.

"[The film is about] a desperate man in a desperate situation," star Sam Worthington said of his character and the man on a ledge himself, Nick Cassidy. "As the movie goes on, we get to see why he's there and how's he's going to get out of it."

Worthington went on to say that "Man on a Ledge" takes a few cues from action films like "The Negotiator" and "Phone Booth."

"I like those movies. I've always said I like doing movies that I would go and see and this is in the same vein as those movies," Worthington said. "It's exciting, thrilling and interesting for the audience because they've got a lead character who they're wondering, 'What's going to happen next?' "

"The basic premise of the movie is that there is a man on a ledge, and the great thing is that there is so much more behind that basic premise," added co-star Elizabeth Banks, who plays determined hostage negotiator Lydia Mercer. "Why is he there? What is he there for? What's really happening? Those are all the questions that my character has and I get to sort of be the surrogate for the audience.

"The whole time we're watching the movie we're learning more about what's going on. I'm the truth-seeker of the movie, I'm really interested in understanding why he's there in the first place," she explained. "Sam's character says to me at one point, 'You need to listen, I'm prepared to die' and what he's really saying is 'Even if I die, I need you to carry on and tell everyone what happened,' and that's the great mystery of the movie. The action that drives the movie is, 'What the heck is going on here?' "

Jamie Bell, who plays the man on the ledge's younger brother, conceded that the title basically sells the film. "It's quite literal," he said.

"I think that's what throws people off," offered Genesis Rodriguez, who plays the girlfriend of Bell's character. "They're like, 'Oh, it's a movie about a man on a ledge.' It really isn't. There's more to it.' You should check it out because you don't know it all."

Are you planning on seeing "Man on a Ledge" this weekend? Leave your comment below!

Check out everything we've got on "Man on a Ledge."

For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.

Bryan Wade Akira Watanabe Adolf Weil Jake Weimer Jimmy Weinert

Jan 28, 2012 10:01:14 PM

Is Barack Obama Coming To The American Idol Stage?!

Is Barack Obama Coming To The American Idol Stage?!
If Nigel Lythgoe has his way, then YES! The American Idol honcho was apparently so taken with the President's impressive rendition of Al Green's Let's Stay Together at a New York fundraiser last week that he sent him a message via Twitter, inviting him to appear on the reality competition to perform a duet with the [...]

If Nigel Lythgoe has his way, then YES!

The American Idol honcho was apparently so taken with the President's impressive rendition of Al Green's Let's Stay Together at a New York fundraiser last week that he sent him a message via Twitter, inviting him to appear on the reality competition to perform a duet with the soul legend!

He wrote:

"@BarackObama we loved your vocal performance so much we'd love to invite you on to #AmericanIdol this Season for a duet with Al Green."

Oh man! That would be so effing RAD!

We seriously hope all parties involve agree!

Check out the original clip (above)!

We think you'll Obama's definitely got some pipes, and we wouldn't mind hearing them in action again!

P.S. CLICK HERE to "follow" Perez on Twitter!

P.P.S. CLICK HERE to "like" Perez on Facebook!

Tallon Vohland Heath Voss Andre Vromas David Vuillemin Jeff Ward

Jan 28, 2012 8:01:27 PM

Mark Munoz Still Sees Major Holes in Demian Maia's Striking - UFC 131

Mark Munoz Still Sees Major Holes in Demian Maia's Striking Video by UFC 131

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Jan 28, 2012 8:01:25 PM

Subterranean | 5/11/10 | Mayer Hawthorne

Retro soul man Mayer Hawthorne spins the best videos the indie world has to offer on this week's Subterranean.

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Jan 28, 2012 6:01:43 PM

Katy Steps Out Stateside For The First Time Post-Russell!

Katy Steps Out Stateside For The First Time Post-Russell!
And looking absolutely FABOOSH, might we add! At the grand opening of 1 OAK at Las Vegas' Mirage Hotel & Casino last night, Katy Perry made her first public appearance since announcing her divorce from Russell Brand, alongside jewelry designer and event co-host Markus Molinari and sporting her new electric blue locks! Ch-ch-check her out (above)! A nice [...]

And looking absolutely FABOOSH, might we add!

At the grand opening of 1 OAK at Las Vegas' Mirage Hotel & Casino last night, Katy Perry made her first public appearance since announcing her divorce from Russell Brand, alongside jewelry designer and event co-host Markus Molinari and sporting her new electric blue locks!

Ch-ch-check her out (above)!

A nice little change like that is probably exactly what she needs right now!

Hang in there, gurl! You're doing great!

[Images via WENN.]

Chuck Sun Torao Suzuki Gareth Swanepoel Ivan Tedesco David Thorpe

Jan 28, 2012 4:01:25 PM

UFC on Fox 2: Beltran vs. Johnson on Fuel TV Prelims with Bedford vs. Gagnon Scratched

UFC on Fox 2: Beltran vs. Johnson on Fuel TV Prelims with Bedford vs. Gagnon Scratched
A heavyweight matchup between Joey Beltran and Lavar Johnson will air on UFC on Fox 2's Fuel TV prelims after a bantamweight bout between The Ultimate Fighter 14's Johnny Bedford and newcomer Mitch Gagnon was scatched from the event for undisclosed reasons.

A heavyweight matchup between Joey Beltran and Lavar Johnson will air on UFC on Fox 2′s Fuel TV prelims after a bantamweight bout between The Ultimate Fighter 14′s Johnny Bedford and newcomer Mitch Gagnon was scatched from the event for undisclosed reasons.

UFC on Fox 2 takes place on Saturday, January 28 at the United Center in Chicago and features a tripleheader on Fox with light heavyweight contenders Rashad Evans vs. Phil Davis, middleweight contenders Chael Sonnen vs. Michael Bisping, and Demian Maia vs. Chris Weidman.

For complete coverage of UFC on Fox 2 stay tuned to MMAFrenzy.com.

Pictured: Joey Beltran

Rex Staten James Stewart Jr Brian Stonebridge David Strijbos Kevin Strijbos

Jan 28, 2012 4:01:23 PM

'So You Think You Can Dance' Choreographer Gets 10 Years In Prison

Alex Da Silva was convicted of rape and assault against former dance students.
By Katie Byrne

Alex Da Silva (file)
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images

"So You Think You Can Dance" fans haven't seen Alex Da Silva on the show since season four back in 2008, and there's a reason the choreographer has been off the radar: He has been in jail since being charged with raping a former dance student and assaulting another one. On Friday (January 27), Da Silva was sentenced to 10 years in prison for those crimes, TMZ reports.

While the 43-year-old was accused of raping and sexually assaulting four women, he was convicted in September of only one count of rape and one count of assault with intent to commit rape; the jury was deadlocked on the other charges. He was arrested back in 2009 and charged with multiple felonies. Unable to pay the bail set at $2 million, Da Silva has remained in jail for the past two years. On top of his 10 years in prison, he is now required to register as a sex offender for life.

Da Silva appeared on seasons one through four of "So You Think You Can Dance" as a guest choreographer specializing in Salsa dancing. In season two, eventual winner Benji Schwimmer named his Da Silva-choreographed mambo as his favorite routine of the show.

After his arrest, Da Silva did an interview with SalsaFreak.com to clear his name, insisting that he had done nothing wrong with his students. "I know the truth, and I don't even know who the others are," he said, claiming to not even be acquainted with some of his accusers. "It's all a bunch of lies, and people just want to bring me down. If something like that really happened, then they should have gone to the police that night, or the same day, but it was never that way. I have too much to lose. I don't need that type of thing in my life."

Darrell Schultz Tommy Searle Gary Semics Andrew Short Shaun Simpson

Jan 28, 2012 2:01:07 PM

No Doubt Shares New Photos From The Recording Studio

No Doubt Shares New Photos From The Recording Studio
Last August, Gwen Stefani — frontwoman of the band No Doubt — gave us a bit of an update on the recording of the new No Doubt album. In September, the band announced that their new disc would not be ready for release until sometime in 2012. This week, Gwen and the boys posted new [...]

Last August, Gwen Stefani — frontwoman of the band No Doubt — gave us a bit of an update on the recording of the new No Doubt album. In September, the band announced that their new disc would not be ready for release until sometime in 2012. This week, Gwen and the boys posted new photos from inside the recording studio … alerting us to the fact that they are still working hard on their new album which, hopefully, will be out sooner rather than later this year. Click below to check out the fun new No Doubt photos.

Gwen Stefani has returned to studio with her No Doubt bandmates to make new music for an upcoming project. A picture featuring the foursome hanging out in the studio has been shared on Twitter along with updates from Tony Kanal and Tom Dumont. Tony wrote, “Gwen back in the studio with us. Nothing like having the four of us in the same room making music. Let’s do this!” Tom then added, “Sometimes making music is easy and fun and everything just works. Gotta celebrate the good days!” It’s been over 10 years since No Doubt released their critically acclaimed album “Rock Steady”. They hinted a reunion in November 2008, and later followed it up with a tour featuring Paramore in 2009. Talks and rumors about their new album intensified in the months leading to 2011. Last summer, they hit the studio with Major Lazer. “We’re working on 3 different songs tonight in 3 different rooms in the same studio complex, all at once. Like magic, somehow it works. @majorlazer in one of those rooms. Cutting drums with Adrian [Young] at the moment,” Tom informed his Twitter followers back then.

OY! It seems like we’ve been hearing about this new No Doubt album forEVER! I know that they want to make sure they make the best album possible but … dang, these delays are driving me nuts! Still, I am confident that we will get the new No Doubt album this year … and that it will be well worth the wait. It’s so fun seeing photos of the gang altogether in the studio again. I just hope they are putting the final touches on the album … and will be announcing the release date SOON!

[Source, Source, Source]

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Jan 28, 2012 12:01:22 PM

MMAFrenzy Podcast: Post-UFC 142, Weight Cutting, and More

MMAFrenzy Podcast: Post-UFC 142, Weight Cutting, and More
MMAFrenzy’s podcast returns this week as host Steve “bsbiz” Barnes and writers Chris Leslie and Pete Sumulong break down the week’s events in MMA. This week's podcast breaks down the aftermath of UFC 142, weight cutting, upcoming UFC events, and the ESPN "Outside the Lines" piece on UFC fighter pay.

MMAFrenzy’s podcast returns this week as host Steve “bsbiz” Barnes and writers Chris Leslie and Pete Sumulong break down the week’s events in MMA.

This week’s podcast breaks down the aftermath of UFC 142, weight cutting, upcoming UFC events, and the ESPN “Outside the Lines” piece on UFC fighter pay.

Right click and “save as” to download.

MP3 version - Podcast 1_16 (MP3)

enhanced iTunes version - Podcast 1_16

Steve Ramon Tyla Rattray Chad Reed Warren Reid Pierre Renet

Jan 28, 2012 10:01:52 AM

Photos | MTV Buzzworthy Blog: The Most WTF Photos From EMA 2011

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Jan 28, 2012 10:01:50 AM

Rashad Evans says boo all you want, he likes it

This is a nice behind-the-scenes video blog following Rashad Evans. As always Evans drops some awesome lines. He talks about being a heel and that he wouldn't want it any other way (5:35 mark). Watch the end, the delivery is dynamite.

Evans faces Phil Davis in the main event of Saturday's UFC on Fox 2 card in Chicago.

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Jan 28, 2012 8:01:36 AM

Demi Moore 'Breakdown Isn't Surprising,' Expert Says

One celebrity watcher weighs in on the actress' latest personal woes.
By Jocelyn Vena

Demi Moore in September
Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images

As more details about Demi Moore's recent hospitalization emerge, celebrity watchers are getting an inside look at the actress' personal life since her split with Ashton Kutcher in November. While some revelations may seem too personal, one expert told MTV News this sort of nothing's-off-limits coverage comes with the territory.

"When you're a celebrity, it's open season for the press to scrutinize every aspect of your life, specifically your personal life. Most celebrities are used to being under the microscope like this, but when the scrutiny involves their personal relationships, especially a split, everything is magnified," celebrity magazine editor David Caplan told MTV News on Friday, just as the 911 call from the night of her health scare hit the Web.

"The scrutiny, the press coverage ... can be very stressful for a celebrity, because the majority of the information being disseminated about the relationship and the split in the press is often highly critical of the celebrity," he added.

Photos: Demi Moore's career evolution.

When one bit of bad news — like a divorce or substance abuse — comes to light, the media has a field day trying to uncover even more dirt.

"As the press seeks to explain why the split occurred, skeletons in a stars' closet are revealed, and demons are revealed. In the case of Demi and Ashton, she was basically humiliated since it came to light that Ashton was blatantly cheating on Demi, with younger women, making Demi look like she was manipulated in the relationship — let alone reports claiming they had an open marriage," Caplan said. "Once this was revealed, the floodgates were open and stories emerged of Demi's alleged low self-esteem, how her partying put strain on the marriage and other aspects about her life. For someone who already seems to be on an emotional roller coaster, this doesn't bode well for Demi's mental health and well-being."

As the Demi story continues to hold the public's interest, expect the focus to also fall on her famous ex. "It's also exacerbated by the fact that Ashton seems to be going on with his life and enjoying himself," Caplan noted. "Combining all this together takes such a mental toll, a breakdown isn't surprising."

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Jan 28, 2012 6:01:57 AM

Reaction from the Action: UFC on FX 1 “Guillard vs. Miller”

Reaction from the Action: UFC on FX 1 “Guillard vs. Miller”
They say you can't teach a dog new tricks. Apparently the same applies for assassins. Following a five fight win streak, Guillard has now his last two fights by rear-naked choke. Read about where the loss leaves Guillard, along with other questions and future matchups to make following the UFC's debut on FX.

They say you can’t teach a dog new tricks. Apparently the same applies for assassins.

After losing by submission for the second straight fight, and sixth time overall in the UFC, Melvin Guillard seems stuck. Following a five fight win streak, Guillard has now lost his last two fights by rear-naked choke. While both losses are to top contenders in Joe Lauzon and Jim Miller, respectively, Guillard has a long road in front of him to return to title contention.

Guillard stated after the fight against Miller on Friday that he and Miller are the two best guys in the lightweight division. While it does seem farfetched, he is not that far off when declaring himself and Miller as the two most dangerous lightweights. With Guillard’s striking and speed, along with Miller’s jiu jitsu, the pair brings a tough matchup to any opponent put inside the cage with them.

But unlike Miller, Guillard has not closed the holes in his game. Miller will likely not be mistaken for a top notch striker any time soon, yet he has developed a formidable striking game in his own right, defeating strong strikers such as Duane Ludwig, Kamal Shalorus, and Guillard with a mix of striking and a very b strong ground game.

Having a premier talent in this sport, specifically with the talent that is displayed on a weekly basis, success rarely can be sustained for an extended period. Guillard seems to have run into that specific problem, having lost in similar fashion in every one of his losses.

Since 2007, in every one of his wins, Guillard has either defeated the opponent via first round TKO or decision. That seems to show that he is either successful in blitzing the opponent from the beginning, or he is able to lay back and rely on precise strikes to outpoint his way to a victory. But those same early blitzes have had a counter effect on him all the same, which has been evident in his last two fights, both early submission losses.

Can he develop enough to neutralize the strong jiu jitsu in the lightweight division? Absolutely, as was on display with Pat Barry fighting off a few submission attempts from Christian Morecraft earlier at the event.

The question remains whether training full-time at the “Blackzillians” camp in Florida is the correct move. The camp is known as a full-contact training camp, which Guillard likely relishes, but might not allow him to fully mature as a mixed martial artist.

Biggest winner: Jim Miller
Welcome back, Jim. While he did not really go anywhere, Miller has entrenched himself back to the top of the contenders list with the win over Guillard. Had he not fought with mononucleosis and a kidney infection against Benson Henderson in August, he could have very well been the one fighting Frankie Edgar next month in Japan. It is to be seen whether Miller is the one that fights the winner of that championship bout.

Biggest loser: Kamal Shalorus
After starting his career undefeated in his first nine fights, Shalorus has now lost his last two fights. While he has an intimidating style with his strong looping punches, Shalorus is a renowned wrestler who has seemingly abandoned his strength. In order to maintain a spot in the organization, chances are the Prince of Persia will have to return to what brought him to America in the first place.

Biggest question: How will UFC on FX cards be received?
It seems the formula for the network cable cards on FX and Fuel TV has been discovered, as Friday’s card shared a similar resemblance to recent Spike cards along with the upcoming Fuel TV card in March. The formula looks to be to host a strong main event between two promising title contenders, mix in a few entertaining lower-tier guys from a few divisions, and then host a slew of prospects on the preliminary card.

The question with that formula is determining if the adage of ‘any card being free is a good card’ is enough.

Future matchups:

Jim Miller vs. Nate Diaz: I will admit that I made a mistake in pitting the winner of the upcoming Anthony Pettis/Joe Lauzon fight with Diaz following his win at UFC 141. Miller vs. Diaz sets up a better match for the top contender in the lightweight division than Pettis/Lauzon does, in my opinion. Win streaks should not be seen as critical as the magnitude of those wins. Between the arguably top four contenders, Lauzon and Diaz share the longest win streak of them all-two.

Melvin Guillard vs. Rafael dos Anjos: Guillard and dos Anjos are two immensely talented fighters at 155 pounds, but they have both run into issues over the last year. A win here would put the victor on the right track.

Josh Neer vs. Charlie Brenneman: Neer pulled off a great submission after being pummeled by Duane Ludwig early throughout the first round. This pair will likely not have the crowd chanting for more striking during their fight, but it would certainly be a solid showing on the ground.

Pat Barry vs. Shane del Rosario: While the above pair would not overly excite the crowd with their striking, this matchup most certainly would. The kickboxing of Barry vs. the muay thai of del Rosario would certainly be one of the more intriguing striking matches the UFC can make in the heavyweight division.

Guennady Moisseev Bobby Moore Blair Morgan Gaylon Mosier Marvin Musquin

Jan 28, 2012 6:01:57 AM

'Jersey Shore' High Five: Operation Rescue Vinny!

Plus, the Situation is hungover and the girls wear bunny suits in this week's episode.
By Jim Cantiello

Mike "The Situation" on Thursday's Episode of "Jersey Shore"
Photo: MTV

The Situation's back and he got a Hugh Hefner-themed surprise party, what with the strippers and the wheelchairs. Here now, my five favorite moments from this week's "Jersey Shore."

5. Hungover Situation
You can't get any more DTF than a stripper, right? Wrong. Just ask the Situation, who brought home one of his party favors.

"I don't even remember her name. It might as well be A-nita because all night she was saying 'I need a cigarette. I need French toast.' Well I need you to get the hell out of my house!"

I think Hungover Situation is my favorite Situation. On the other hand, dude, she's a stripper who never actually took her clothes off. That's like being mad at your anorexic friend for giving you a crappy restaurant recommendation.

4. Old Man
With Vinny gone, Danny the T-shirt guy is looking to find a new employee/housemate and made J-Woww write up a "Help Wanted" sign after she tore down the first one.

J-Woww says, "What should the sign say, because Danny's being a douche ..."

"You should write, 'See old man inside for details!' " the Situation laughs.

The Situation - 1, Danny - 0.

The Situation walks away, and J-Woww says under her breath, "But then people would think they should talk to you."

The Situation - 1, J-Woww - 1,000,000!!

3. Operation Rescue Vinny!
What better way to help a guy with anxiety than to crowd him, shout loud things in his ear and bum-rush him in the comfort of his own home?!

Um ... get better Vinny!

2. Crack Is Wack!
In all seriousness, Vinny was happy to jump in the car and return to Seaside with his roomies. Too bad they nearly died on the way back ...

[They moon each other. Snooki sees "a ball." They all scream.]

Don't drink and drive. Don't text and drive. Don't try to blind people with your ugly-ass ass and drive.

1. Funny Bunnies
Gotta hand it to MTV. Always looking to lure in new audiences for their programming. This week they dedicated a segment entirely to furries!

Snooki and Deena hump each other in giant bunny costumes. Later, Snooki uses her new bunny costume for evil when she scares J-Woww.

Amazing. Let's just hope she doesn't pull that on Vinny for a few days.

For continuing "Jersey Shore" coverage, be sure to check in with MTV's Remote Control blog.

Jan 28, 2012 4:01:20 AM

Demi Moore 911 Call: 'She's Been Having Some Issues'

'She's shaking, convulsing, burning up,' one caller says the night of Moore's hospitalization.
By Jocelyn Vena

Demi Moore
Photo: Jason Kempin/ Getty Images

In the 911 call made the night of Demi Moore's hospitalization, a female caller is heard describing the events that led to the actress' Monday health scare.

Describing Moore's condition as "semiconscious, barely," the caller told the 911 operator, "She smoked something. It's not marijuana, but it's similar to it. It's similar to incense. She seems to be having convulsions of some sort."

The first caller then passed the phone to another woman, who added, "She's shaking, convulsing, burning up. I'm taking cold water and putting it on her back because she's burning up. I don't know what would have made her do it."

Demi's hospitalization has soon-to-be ex-husband Ashton Kutcher "deeply concerned."

There appeared to be several other people present at the time of the call, as they all frantically tried to keep the actress afloat. When asked if it was common for Moore to react in this way, one caller said, "There has been some stuff recently that we're just finding out." Another caller added: "She's been having some issues lately with some other stuff, so I don't know what she's been taking or not."

As the seven-minute phone call wrapped up, the paramedics arrived to the residence. On Tuesday, Moore's rep said she had been hospitalized due to "exhaustion"; however, there has been speculation that she had been inhaling nitrous oxide at the time of the incident.

Moore's health scare caps a rough patch for the actress.

Sources told E! News that her three daughters are doing fine. Rumer, 23, visited her mother several times at the hospital before she was discharged earlier this week. Tallulah, 17, is with her dad, Bruce Willis. "She's doing great," the source told E! "Her grandmother [Bruce's mom] is also there with her." Moore's other daughter, 20-year-old Scout, goes to Brown University in Rhode Island and reportedly hasn't been home since the incident.

On Friday (January 27), news broke that Mary Louise-Parker has replaced Moore in the "Lovelace" film, currently filming in Los Angeles.

Related Photos

Demi Moore Through The Years

Jacky Martens Christophe Martin Mickael Maschio Connor McGechan Jeremy McGrath

Jan 28, 2012 4:01:19 AM

UFC on Fox 2 Weigh-In Videos: Evans vs. Davis, Sonnen vs. Bisping Highlights

UFC on Fox 2 Weigh-In Videos: Evans vs. Davis, Sonnen vs. Bisping Highlights
Here are highlights from the UFC on Fox 2 weigh-ins, where light heavyweight contenders Rashad Evans and Phil Davis and middleweight contenders Chael Sonnen and Michael Bisping hit the scale and made their fights official for Saturday's event in Chicago.

Here are highlights from the UFC on Fox 2 weigh-ins, where light heavyweight contenders Rashad Evans and Phil Davis and middleweight contenders Chael Sonnen and Michael Bisping hit the scale and made their fights official for Saturday’s event in Chicago.

Pictured: Evans and Davis (via @DanaWhite)

Aigar Leok Tanel Leok Billy Liles Ove Lundell Sten Lundin

Jan 28, 2012 2:01:44 AM

Scott Coker Discusses Overeem vs. Werdum, Gina Carano's Health Status - Strikeforce

Scott Coker Discusses Overeem vs. Werdum, Gina Carano's Health Status Video by Strikeforce

Brad Lackey Arthur Lampkin Steve Lamson Grant Langston Danny LaPorte

Jan 28, 2012 12:01:44 AM

UFC 143 Primetime Episode 2 - Live Discussion

UFC 143 Primetime Episode 2 - Live Discussion

Darryll King Shayne King Heinz Kinigadner Dusty Klatt Arne Kring

Jan 27, 2012 10:01:13 PM

UFC Releases Featherweight Junior Assuncao

UFC Releases Featherweight Junior Assuncao
The UFC released featherweight Junior Assuncao on Monday following his loss to Ross Pearson last month at UFC 141, which snapped a seven-fight win streak.

The UFC released featherweight Junior Assuncao on Monday following his loss to Ross Pearson several weeks ago at UFC 141, which snapped a seven-fight win streak.

“I just got cut from the UFC!! Wow…apparently they did not like my last fight. Thanks UFC for the opportunity. To my fans, I’ll be back!,” Assuncao wrote on Twitter.

Prior to dropping a unanimous decision to The Ultimate Fighter 9 winner Pearson, Assuncao moved down to 145-pounds with his own decision win over Eddie Yagin in September after six-straight wins on the regional circuit.

Assuncao, who trains out of Georgia and was a likely candidate to fight at UFC 145 in Atlanta, went 1-2 in his first stint with the UFC from 2006 to 2007 with a win over David Lee and losses to Nate Diaz and Kurt Pellegrino.

For the latest UFC news stay tuned to MMAFrenzy.com.

Pictured: Junior Assuncao (via UFC.com)

Ake Jonsson Julien Bill Pierre Karsmakers Vladimir Kavinov Mike Kiedrowski

Jan 27, 2012 10:01:12 PM

FAB CHICKS Paula Patton, Kerry Washington, Octavia Spencer & Pam Grier Set For "ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood" Luncheon

Fab actresses Paula Patton, Kerry Washington, Octavia Spencer AND Pam Grier will honored at the 5th annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon next month. Get deets about the luncheon inside....

Continuing to inspire and uplift African American women, ESSENCE Magazine will use next month to honor five extraordinary women who have left an indelible impression with their work: Kerry Washington (Vanguard Award), Octavia Spencer (Breakthrough Performance), Pam Grier (Legend Award), Paula Patton (Shining Star Award) and Shonda Rhimes (Visionary Award presented by Lincoln).

The annual luncheon (which has also honored Halle Berry, Jada Pinkett-Smith and Angela Bassett in the past) will take place on February 23, 2012 at the Beverly Hills Hotel. And for fans of the ladies who'd like to be a part of the experience Essence.com is giving fans exclusive access to all the red-carpet celebrity style, action and interviews via live stream from 11:30am to 12:30pm PST and re-airing that evening at 9:00pm EST.

When asked about the event, ESSENCE Editor-in-Chief Constance White said,

"Black women actors, writers, directors and producers still lack diverse opportunities in Hollywood and, unfortunately, are often overlooked during awards season. The ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon exists to provide a fitting tribute to the brilliant talent and accomplishments of African-American trailblazers like Kerry, Pam, Paula, Octavia and Shonda and celebrate their collective work as an inspiration for generations to come."

Congrats to the ladies!

Gunnar Johansson Peter Johansson Rick Johnson Gary Jones Mark Jones

Jan 27, 2012 8:01:15 PM

Ke$ha - Tik Tok

Tik Tok

Artist: Ke$ha
Label: RCA
Director: Syndrome
Album: Out of the Blue

Jeremy van Horebeek Kent Howerton Neil Hudson Ryan Hughes Georges Jobe

Jan 27, 2012 8:01:14 PM

Photos from UFC’s first FX event

Check out pictures from the UFC's first full event on FX from Tracy Lee. The gallery includes Pat Barry's unique celebration, Jorge Rivera's final bout and more.

Marcus Hansson Doug Henry Broc Hepler Rob Herring George Holland

Jan 27, 2012 6:01:13 PM

What Stories Will 'Pop' In 2012?

From music to TV to celebrity babies, MTV News looks ahead to all of the big releases expected in the coming months.
By Jocelyn Vena

Beyonce
Photo: Getty Images

It's a new year and that means that there's lots of ooey-gooey pop goodness all ready to pour out in 2012. Between celebrity babies, music and Hollywood, fans should gear up for some really big stuff in the coming year. But if history has taught us anything, as hard as we might plan, pop culture always has a way of sneaking up and surprising us. Not that we're complaining. So get your planners out: MTV News is looking ahead at what to expect in the world of pop culture.

Music
There are lots of big album releases slated for 2012. Crossover queen Nicki Minaj will release Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded just in time to show her Barbz and Kenz some love on Valentine's Day. Madonna already has confirmed that she will drop her next album come spring. Fans already got a taste of it when the single "Gimme All Your Luvin' " leaked on the Internet. "American Idol" alum Adam Lambert is readying the release of his next album, Trespassing, set to drop in March. Willow Smith's fans should whip their hair back and forth as the tween's long-simmering debut album, Knees and Elbows, will finally drop in April. Justin Bieber has teased his Believe album for a summer release. He's shared that it will pick up where Justin Timberlake left off before he decided to focus on his acting. Basically, he's bringing sexy back. There are two forthcoming albums that don't have exact release dates but are highly anticipated nonetheless. Lady Gaga is already thinking about her next album and recently revealed to MTV News that she even has a title for her Born This Way follow-up in mind. Taylor Swift is knee-deep in and working hard on her follow-up to her phenomenally successful Speak Now. TV
In between pumping out tunes, some big shows will also return in 2012. Everything from "The Secret Circle" to "2 Broke Girls" to "New Girl" will be back for more fun come the new year. After a break, "Pretty Little Liars" will be back midseason. Will we finally find out who "A" is when season 2 resumes on January 2? Well, only that texting antagonist knows the answer. There are many other mysteries on "The Vampire Diaries" that will also have to be resolved once that show picks up again on January 5. And if all that drama is too much to handle, "Glee" will be back for more sing-along good times on January 17, with the Michael Jackson tribute episode airing one week later.

Celebrity Babies
2012 is poised to be a big year for famous babies. OK, so 2011 saw Mariah Carey and Dem Babies, but some of the most famous ladies in La La Land and beyond will become first-time moms in the new year, giving MC and her family a run for their money. Beyoncé and Jay-Z will welcome their first child into the world any day now. The twosome revealed they were in the family way at the VMAs back in August. Jessica Simpson and her fiancé, Eric Johnson, will also welcome their first little bundle of joy. The news of the pregnancy came after a lot of speculation about Simpson's expanding midsection. As it turns out, it's a big year for triple-threat moms-to-be, with Hilary Duff also expecting a baby come 2012.

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Thomas Hahn Torsten Hallman Bob Hannah Donnie Hansen Torlief Hansen

Jan 27, 2012 6:01:11 PM

Kim Kardashian Made The Cher Death Hoax Bigger Than It Should Have Been

Kim Kardashian Made The Cher Death Hoax Bigger Than It Should Have Been
Celeb death hoaxes are fun… until a Kardashian gets hurt! Last night tweeters around the world mad #Cher a trending topic, after one user tweeted a fake CNN story claiming the the 65-year-old singer passed away. Less than an hour after the original "RIP Cher" was posted, Kim Kardashian was freaking out. The reality star [...]

Celeb death hoaxes are fun... until a Kardashian gets hurt!

Last night tweeters around the world mad #Cher a trending topic, after one user tweeted a fake CNN story claiming the the 65-year-old singer passed away.

Less than an hour after the original "RIP Cher" was posted, Kim Kardashian was freaking out.

The reality star has over 12 million flowers, so when she asked:

"Did I just hear Cher has passed away? Is this real? OMG."

Over 12 million people started asking the same thing. The affect wasn't quite the same as Orson Welles' War of the Worlds radio show, HOWEVER people did lose their shit thinking Cher gone.

Kim "investigatory journalist" Kardshian did some digging and discovered elaborate joke. She told her millions:

"Can't believe people would make up a sick joke like Cher died. These people need to get a life! Thanks Twitter for clearing that up!"

There you have it!

Cher is alive, despite the fact that she hasn't posted on Twitter since last week.

[Image via Ramey Pix.]

Broc Glover Rui Goncalves Josh Grant Billy Grossi Davide Guarneri

Jan 27, 2012 4:01:17 PM

Meagan Good, Christina Milian, & More Get TASTY On McDonald's Red Carpet

The YBF folks hit up the McDonald's red carpet launch for their new McBites products. And you know everybody loves a piece of chicken or two. Check out the fab folks having fun on the carpet inside...

Christina Milian and her little black romper and cheetah print pumps kicked it on the carpet with fellow actress Meagan Good last night in Hollywood for the McBites event.

Think Like A Man star Meagan rocked her usual grey jeans and grey tank with grey booties--and still managed to look sexy getting a taste of the new product.

"The Voice" social media correspondent Christina kept it cutesy.

Lance Gross kept it khaki on the carpet.

And actor Laz Alonso was there as well.

Christopher "Kid" Reid brought his box of McBites on the carpet. Isn't there a new bench warrant out for his arrest? Is being on a red carpet for some chicken really the best idea right now homie?

Cheryl "Salt" James and Sandy "Pepa" Denton hit the carpet in their usual looks. Pep does not leave the house without her fishnets and over-the-knee boots I see.

Red Tails and "90210" star Tristan Wilds made a cute appearance as well.

Pics via WENN

Lauris Freibergs Paul Friedrichs Steven Frossard Eric Geboers Sylvain Geboers

Jan 27, 2012 4:01:16 PM

Photos | Beyonce's 'Love On Top' Tease: Five Key Scenes!

Beyonce's 'Love On Top' Tease: Five Key Scenes!

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Jaroslav Falta Claudio Federici Tim Ferry Ashley Fiolek Ernesto Fonseca

Jan 27, 2012 2:01:22 PM

UFC on Fox 2: Beltran vs. Johnson on Fuel TV Prelims with Bedford vs. Gagnon Scratched

UFC on Fox 2: Beltran vs. Johnson on Fuel TV Prelims with Bedford vs. Gagnon Scratched
A heavyweight matchup between Joey Beltran and Lavar Johnson will air on UFC on Fox 2's Fuel TV prelims after a bantamweight bout between The Ultimate Fighter 14's Johnny Bedford and newcomer Mitch Gagnon was scatched from the event for undisclosed reasons.

A heavyweight matchup between Joey Beltran and Lavar Johnson will air on UFC on Fox 2′s Fuel TV prelims after a bantamweight bout between The Ultimate Fighter 14′s Johnny Bedford and newcomer Mitch Gagnon was scatched from the event for undisclosed reasons.

UFC on Fox 2 takes place on Saturday, January 28 at the United Center in Chicago and features a tripleheader on Fox with light heavyweight contenders Rashad Evans vs. Phil Davis, middleweight contenders Chael Sonnen vs. Michael Bisping, and Demian Maia vs. Chris Weidman.

For complete coverage of UFC on Fox 2 stay tuned to MMAFrenzy.com.

Pictured: Joey Beltran

Richard Eierstedt Jimmy Ellis Jeff Emig Harry Everts Stefan Everts

Jan 27, 2012 2:01:21 PM

Gerard Butler Denies Housewife Brandi Glanville Hook-Up!

Gerard Butler Denies Housewife Brandi Glanville Hook-Up!
We were so proud of our RHOBH gurl Brandi Glanville when she revealed her hottest lay was Gerard Butler. And then she even rated him an 11 out of 10! Mmm! But when Gerard was asked about it, he looked a bit puzzled and asked, "Who's Brandi Glanville?" Ouch!! So either: A) he's covering it up [...]

We were so proud of our RHOBH gurl Brandi Glanville when she revealed her hottest lay was Gerard Butler. And then she even rated him an 11 out of 10! Mmm!

But when Gerard was asked about it, he looked a bit puzzled and asked, "Who's Brandi Glanville?"

Ouch!! So either:

A) he's covering it up bc he's unsure if Brandi spilled the beans or not
B) honestly doesn't remember (pAArty poppin!) or
C) it never happened. Sadsies.

We're hoping for either A or B!! We want the sex to be true, we do we do!! LOL!!

If it isn't, then Brandi, gurrrllll.... WTF!?! Don't tease us!!!

Which option do U think it is?

[Image via WENN.]

Doug Dubach Ryan Dungey Vic Eastwood Daryl Ecklund Erik Eggens

Jan 27, 2012 12:01:34 PM

Demi Moore Has Ashton Kutcher 'Deeply Concerned'

'He still cares about her and wants the best for her,' a source tells People following Moore's hospitalization.
By Kara Warner

Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore
Photo: Getty Images

In the days following Demi Moore's surprising hospitalization Monday night, the details that have emerged are even more perplexing, particularly the latest reports that Moore was inhaling nitrous oxide from aerosol cans, also known as whip-its, the night the 911 call was placed from her home in Los Angeles.

And although Moore has been released from the hospital, People magazine reports that the actress' health scare has her soon-to-be ex-husband Ashton Kutcher very worried about his wife of six years.

"Ashton is deeply concerned for Demi," a source told the magazine. "He still cares about her and wants the best for her. But their marriage is ending and they are both moving on with their lives."

Check out photos of Demi and Ashton in happier times.

Kutcher has yet to make any official statement about Moore, nor has he expressed anything about the matter via his frequently updated Twitter account. The "Two and a Half Men" star was out of the country working on an ad campaign when news of Moore's hospitalization broke. He is reportedly back in L.A. to return to work on "Men."

The theories about why Moore turned to nitrous oxide in the first place all relate back to her very public and emotional split from Kutcher back in November, when Moore announced the breakup with "sadness and a heavy heart" after months of not-so-quiet rumblings that her husband had been unfaithful.

Demi Moore's hospitalization caps a rough patch for the actress.

Friends have said that shortly after her split with Kutcher, the 49-year-old began to have trouble sleeping and developed a severe problem with prescription drugs.

Tony DiStefano Jamie Dobb Gert van Doorn John Dowd John Draper

Jan 27, 2012 12:01:33 PM

Demian Maia Prepares for UFC 131 - UFC 131

Demian Maia's journey to Vancouver starts in his home country of Brazil. Take a quick glimpse into his life as he prepares to face Mark Munoz at UFC 131

Ken De Dycker Yves Demaria Gilbert De Roover Clement Desalle John DeSoto

Jan 27, 2012 10:01:48 AM

Kelly Hoppen Confirms Sienna Miller's Pregnancy

Sienna Miller may have not confirmed her pregnancy yet but her former stepmother Kelly Hoppen has. Hoppen - who was previously married to Miller's dad Edwin - confirmed to the Evening Standard that the 30-year-old actress is expecting her first child with Tom Sturridge.

She said, "Sienna is definitely not engaged or getting married, and she is pregnant."

Top Story? (feature beneath menu):

no

Josh Coppins Cody Copper Gordon Crockard Craig Dack Roger De Coster

Jan 27, 2012 10:01:46 AM

UFC on FX 1′s Three Stars: Jim Miller, Jorge Rivera and Nick Denis

The UFC's first event on FX may as well have been nickname, "Guys who need to win the get their career back on track." However, that's a bit wordy. Instead, fighters like Pat Barry and Jim Miller, who were in need of a win got back on their feet. Here are Cagewriter's Three Stars. Tell us yours in the comments or on Facebook.

No. 1 star -- Jim Miller: After losing the Ben Henderson in August, Miller needed a win to remain among the stacked lightweight division's best. He easily picked it up, choking out Melvin Guillard in just two minutes. It won him an extra $45,000 for Submission of the Night.

No. 2 star -- Jorge Rivera: Every fighter wants to leave the game on his own terms. Rivera was one of the lucky few who got to do that, winning by TKO in the second round over Eric Schaefer hours after announcing his retirement. He finished his 11-year career with 20 wins, nine losses, and a cadre of fans who admired Rivera's never say die attitude in the cage.

No. 3 star -- Nick Denis: Thankfully, the UFC replayed Denis' ballet of elbow violence after the main card, allowing fans without Fuel or Fox Deportes (a viable option for fans without Fuel) to see Denis knock out Joseph Sandoval with short elbows in just 22 seconds in the winner's UFC debut. "The Ninja of Love" walked away with an extra $45,000 for Knockout of the Night.

Eric Cheney Alessio Chiodi Jaromir Cizek Guy Cooper Paul Cooper

Jan 27, 2012 8:01:36 AM

Britney Spears' Big 2011: From A Smash Album To A Ring On Her Finger

A decade into her career, the pop megastar reinvented herself this year as the ultimate Femme Fatale and made a big commitment to Jason Trawick.
By Jocelyn Vena

Britney Spears
Photo: Getty Images

Maybe Britney Spears' lucky number is 30. The singer turned 30 this year, marking the landmark birthday on December 2 with a fan-voted MTV News tournament that crowned the Best Britney Video of All Time. But her 30th year also proved to be an incredibly successful period in her career.

For the first time in a while, she seemed comfortable being the pop megastar that she is. More than a decade into her career, Spears re-emerged as a Femme Fatale, giving fans a fist-pumping album, embarking on a flashy tour and dropping more memorable music videos. Britney Spears fandom was reenergized as the singer came out of her shell, opening up about this phase in her career as well her personal life in several high-profile interviews. So it's probably not surprising that Spears will cap off the year at #4 on MTV News' Top Newsmakers of 2011 list, just behind Lil Wayne. "When I was younger, I was busy, busy, and I was always singing and dancing all the time. I was just really creative," she recalled in the MTV special "I Am the Femme Fatale." "That's when my mom realized I'm a really creative person." She let that creativity shine over the past 12 months. From "Hold It Against Me" to "Till the World Ends" to her Chris Marrs Piliero-directed "I Wanna Go" and "Criminal," Britney made headlines every time she dropped a music video. But no vid stirred up as much controversy as her "Criminal" clip, which featured real-life boyfriend (now fiancé) Jason Trawick — and his abs. "At the end of the day, Jason killed it," Piliero told MTV News of Trawick's cameo. "That was one of those things I was really stoked [about], as much as I went into it like, 'Wow, he's not an actor. This is going to be interesting,' but I really do like a challenge, and I really do like the idea that I'm a director and my job is to direct and get the performance. For me, it was a fun challenge to be like, 'I'm gonna make sure that you are awesome,' and he was." Between video shoots, Spears hit the road with the likes of Nicki Minaj, Joe Jonas, and DJ Pauly D. Spears fully embraced her sensuality on the Femme Fatale Tour, a spectacular show full of costume changes, elaborate stage setups and stunning mini-films.

And while much of the 2011 VMA buzz was about Beyoncé's baby bump and Jo Calderone, Spears stole the spotlight by walking away with a Moonman for Best Pop Video and the prized Video Vanguard Award. She also had tongues wagging after an onstage kiss from Jo (a.k.a. Lady Gaga), just before she was honored with an electrifying dance tribute that highlighted some of biggest career moments. "It was really crazy. I had no idea what to expect," Spears told us backstage at the VMAs. "The kids were amazing and so entertaining, and it was a really fun night. It was really cool. I was like, 'Wow, that's really sweet!' " As 2011 came to a close, Spears wrapped up her tour, and MTV News threw her a birthday bash in the form of the "30 Videos for 30 Years" tournament. The competition was heated but in the end, Spears' iconic "I'm a Slave 4 U" took home the prize. And just when it seemed things couldn't get any better, Britney confirmed she was engaged to Trawick after dating for two years. She showed off her Neil Lane ring during a celebratory weekend in Las Vegas. MTV continues our Best of 2011 coverage by looking back at the biggest pop-culture stories of the year. As we count down the newsmakers that mattered to you most, also check out our Best Artists, Best Songs, Best MTV Live Performances and Best EDM Artists of 2011.

Related Videos

Best Songs Of 2011 Debate

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Larry Brooks Mike Brown Rick Burgett Jimmy Button Michael Byrne

Jan 27, 2012 6:02:20 AM

Unplugged: The Script

Irish trio The Script serve up their hit song "Breakeven" and unique blend of "Celtic Soul" in this impassioned Unplugged performance.

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Frederic Bolley Xavier Boog Damon Bradshaw Goat Breker Sven Breugelmans

Jan 27, 2012 6:02:18 AM

Heidi Klum Surfaces Amid Separation Reports

Heidi Klum Surfaces Amid Separation Reports
At the start of this week we learned officially that Heidi Klum and Seal have decided to separate after 7 years of marriage. Since that news broke, Seal has carried on with his scheduled television appearances to promote his new album Soul 2 and, obvs, to discuss the seeming end of his marriage. All week [...]

At the start of this week we learned officially that Heidi Klum and Seal have decided to separate after 7 years of marriage. Since that news broke, Seal has carried on with his scheduled television appearances to promote his new album Soul 2 and, obvs, to discuss the seeming end of his marriage. All week long, Seal has happily continued to wear his wedding ring and has even gone so far as to suggest that a reconciliation with Heidi is possible. Heidi, for her part, has managed to keep completely out of sight … until now. Heidi ventured out in SoCal yesterday for the first time since news of her split from Seal broke. For her, it seems, life goes on.

The show must go on for Heidi Klum as she returned to work following the demise of her marriage. She was seen leaving a LA studio after filming Project Runway, lurking beneath a hat and shades. The mother-of-four kept her head low as she was ushered into a waiting car, avoiding questions about the shock split of her relationship with Seal that was announced last weekend. Later, she was spotted in a car without the disguise, looking glum and tired. She was apparently still wearing her wedding ring, but it was turned upside down on her finger. Seal is also continuing to wear his wedding ring – purposefully flaunting it to photographers as he waved prior to an interview with Mario Lopez for US show Extra at The Grove.

Earlier this week, the British singer insinuated to Piers Morgan that there is a possibility of a reconciliation between him and his wife as he admitted his love for the German supermodel ‘has not waned one iota’. He said: ‘I love her with all my heart. How can you not somebody who you have just spent eight years with?’ Asked if he would get back together with the 38-year-old beauty, Seal said he can see the world-famous couple working through their issues to maybe reconcile in the future. He explained: ‘You can never say never. I can’t speak for my wife and I’m not going to sit here and BS you and say we haven’t had problems. Of course we have had problems, otherwise why have we split up? This is not a charade. We have problems, we have issues, but to our credit we have always been able to talk about them, to confront them.
To assume that any couple goes without arguing is just nonsense. I don’t know at this point if I would like to get back together. If it were that easy, we would still be together, that is the reality.’ The 48-year-old star also spoke about the reasons he has not yet taken off his gold wedding band, insisting it is a mark of his eternal love for his wife. He said: ‘What this means to me and what this stands for – it stands for respect, it stands for loyalty, it stands for incredible memories and it stands for these four little miracles and Heidi making five that have come into my life over the past eight years. There was some malicious thing about me still wearing my wedding ring for show but I’m still wearing my wedding ring because I am still married to this incredible woman and you don’t all of a sudden from one day to the next, unless you are those type of people, say I hate you and take off your wedding ring.’

It should be noted that neither Heidi nor Seal have officially filed for divorce. Seal is right when he says he is “still married” to Heidi so why should he take off his ring. It sounds to me that he is more willing to work things out … but, then again, we haven’t heard from Heidi at all (outside of that joint statement she released with Seal on Monday) so we have NO IDEA where her head is at. I think it’s promising that the couple keep using the word “separation” and not once have used the word divorce. Many couples go thru periods of separation and eventually end up together again. We cannot know for sure what will happen in Heidi and Seal‘s marriage … but we can hope that things will work out for the best. There is still love here, you can feel it. But is their love enough to keep their marriage intact? That is the question.

[Photo credit: INFdaily; Source]

John van den Berk Marnicq Bervoets Fritz Betzlbacher Dave Bickers Anthony Boissiere

Jan 27, 2012 4:01:27 AM

NYC Screening with Marie Claire

There was a screening in New York last night hosted by Marie Claire magazine. Here I am:

Milly Jacket, Theory blouse, J Brand jeans, Chloe shoes, Kate Spade earrings, and the handbag was a gift from my friend Caprice!

David Bailey John Banks Mark Barnett Jonathan Barragan Andrea Bartolini

Jan 27, 2012 2:01:13 AM

Adrienne Bailon Addresses Fabolous Relationship Rumors, Says Their FRIENDSHIP Is Normal

Adrienne Bailon stopped by Cherry Martinez's radio show at Power 105.1 recently. And she finally gave her side of the "I'm not messing around with Fabolous" story. What she had to say about it all inside...

For Cherry martinez's "Girl Power Mondays," she had former Cheetah Girl Adrienne Bailon on the show to dish about her ex-boyfriend Rob Kardashian (whom she says they didn't work out because of their blaring differences but they are still good firends) and her controversial "relationship" with her best friend Emily's "man" Fabolous.

On Rumors She’s Romantically Involved With Fabolous:

“We’re over it. We’re literally like 3 years into saying that I date Fab, [Emily], me and Fab, which are the people, we’re over it.”

On Being Photographed Arriving At The Grand Re-Opening Of Jay-Z’s 40/40 Club With Fab (pictured above):

“We’re friends. The same way that if you have a best friend, and you guys are both attending an event....if we’re all a crew that hangs out together, you’ll say, ‘Yo, everybody’s going at this time.’ We’ll literally be on a chat together, all of us on a BBM chat. That’s like oh, we’re all going at this time, dope. You’ll pull up at this time, great. We’ll all walk in together. That’s not abnormal.”

She continued:

"My best friends will hang out with my man any day. Any day. They'll be like, yo, we're going here. Make sure he's coming too and make sure he gets us in. It's totally normal. I don't know what's wrong with people. I literally was with Em the day after because one of our best friends, Ashley, it was her birthday. And we all went to a girls dinner. The night before I was with Fab and the day after I was with Em. We're ALL friends. We go on vacations together!

My best friend Ashley is Fab's assistant. We're literally a family, a crew, we all hang out together. And that's totally normal guys. I actually don't think I've ever hung out with Fab by myself. If ever someone can find me a picture of me and Fab alone--anywhere in life, please come forward.

We hang out and I'm great friends with his manger and we're all friends."

Well seeing that it's reported Adrienne has been dating Fab's manger for years as well, her definition of "friends" is interesting. We still like Adrienne though.

Check out the full interview below:

Bengt Aberg Greg Albertyn Jeff Alessi Mike Alessi Thomas Allier

Jan 27, 2012 12:01:15 AM

The Rock Says 'Pain And Gain' Is 'On The Right Track'

'The goal would be to shoot this year,' Dwayne Johnson tells MTV News of Michael Bay action flick.
By Kara Warner

Dwayne Johnson
Photo: MTV News

Although director Michael Bay has frequently mentioned that the next movie he will make is his passion project "Pain and Gain," a smaller-budget action flick based on the real-life story about bodybuilders-turned-kidnappers in Miami, there has yet to be any official announcement regarding a production start date or the confirmation of rumored stars Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

It now appears that that announcement is coming very soon as Johnson recently told MTV News that the movie is full steam ahead and that only a few minor technicalities need to be worked out, like Wahlberg's schedule.

"It's going. We're on the right train and the right track," Johnson told us recently of the film's production status during the press day for his upcoming film "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island." "Often in Hollywood, it's the right train, wrong track.

"It's an awesome project, 'Pain and Gain.' It's been with Michael Bay for several years now. I read it years ago; I loved it and wanted to do it then. He brought it back to me now," Johnson said. "I hear Wahlberg is in talks and it looks like we're going to do it. It's a really, really cool story."

The "Fast Five" star went on to say that the film will be shooting this year in order to accommodate the busy schedules of Bay, Wahlberg and Johnson.

"The goal would be to shoot it this year because [Bay] has 'Transformers' to make, obviously that's a juggernaut. I can't wait for that. Plus, I've got 'Fast Six' business, I've got to hunt Vin Diesel down and whoever else is on my list."

Given the fact that Wahlberg is still in talks and trying to work out his schedule, we asked Johnson if he's thought about sending the "Contraband" star any special gifts in order to get the film solidified and officially greenlit.

"No. Here's my gift: It's The Rock, that's my gift. It's me," he said with a devilish grin. "All of this man and a half."

Are you excited for "Pain and Gain"? Leave your comment below.

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Jan 27, 2012 12:01:14 AM

Chris Rock Perplexed By Spike Lee's Sundance Tirade

'I just asked a normal question,' Rock tells MTV News about what prompted the director's passionate criticism against Hollywood.
By Josh Wigler, with reporting by Eric Ditzian

Chris Rock
Photo: MTV News

PARK CITY, Utah — The old refrain of "more money, more problems" seems to apply to Spike Lee's "Red Hook Summer," the director's new drama he unveiled at the Sundance Film Festival on Sunday.

During a Q&A session following the screening of the filmmaker's religion-focused feature, actor and comedian Chris Rock (at Sundance for his new film "2 Days in New York" from Julie Delpy) asked Lee if he would have done anything differently had he "actually gotten... studio money" for the film. Lee's response was a fiery one, fueled with comments that condemned the Hollywood studio system for knowing "nothing about black people."

"We never went to the studios with this film. I bought a camera and said we're gonna do this mother[bleeping] film ourselves. I didn't need a mother[bleeping] studio telling me something about Red Hook! They know nothing about black people," Lee said in response to Rock's question, according to the New York Post. "And they're gonna give me notes about what a 13-year-old black boy and girl do in Red Hook? [Bleep] no!"

Lee's response was nothing short of perplexing to Rock, who told MTV News that he "just asked a normal question."

"I just asked him how it would have been different if he'd had it financed by a studio. If he had more money," he continued. "That was it. That's all I said. Everything else, I don't know. You gotta ask Spike."

In "Red Hook Summer," Lee tells the story of a young boy sent by his mother from Atlanta to spend the summer in Red Hook, Brooklyn, with his grandfather, a strict preacher he's never met. The film stars Clarke Peters, Jules Brown and Thomas Jefferson Byrd.

Do you think Spike Lee's criticism at Sundance out of line? Sound off in the comments section!

The 2012 Sundance Film Festival is officially under way, and the MTV Movies team is on the ground reporting on the hottest stars and the movies everyone will be talking about in the year to come. Keep it locked with MTV Movies for everything there is to know about Sundance.

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Jan 26, 2012 10:01:14 PM

All About Beyonce And Jay-Z's New Arrival

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Jan 26, 2012 10:01:12 PM

Dana White Talks Next Fights for UFC Champs St-Pierre, Silva, and Jones

Dana White Talks Next Fights for UFC Champs St-Pierre, Silva, and Jones
UFC President Dana White discussed the next fights for UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre, middleweight champ Anderson Silva and light heavyweight champion Jon Jones with Fuel TV following Friday's UFC on FX 1 event.

UFC President Dana White discussed the next fights for UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre, middleweight champ Anderson Silva and light heavyweight champion Jon Jones with Fuel TV following Friday’s UFC on FX 1 event.

Jones is expected to headline April’s UFC 145 event in Atlanta with his challenger decided by next Saturday’s UFC on Fox 2 main event between Rashad Evans and Phil Davis. If Evans beats Davis and isn’t injured he’ll earn a long awaited matchup with his former teammate Jones, while Dan Henderson would likely challenge Jones for the belt if Davis wins.

The next shot at Anderson Silva will be on the line when Chael Sonnen and Michael Bisping square off at UFC on Fox 2, but Sonnen has expressed doubts that Silva will rematch him after nearly dethroning him in their first meeting in 2010. However, White “guaranteed” that Silva would fight Sonnen again this summer should he beat Bisping next Saturday and that the matchup would likely take place at a soccer stadium in Silva’s home country of Brazil.

Finally, Georges St-Pierre’s recovery from knee surgery is well ahead of schedule and the welterweight champion could return as early as this summer, especially if Nick Diaz claims the interim title over Carlos Condit at UFC 143 early next month.

Watch Dana White’s complete interview with Fuel TV below:

Pictured: Jon Jones

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Jan 26, 2012 8:01:18 PM

AMTV Playlist: Blondes Have More Fun

Is the old maxim true? Entertaining videos by Just Kait , Britney, Shakira and Madonna are plenty of supporting evidence.

Amanda Peet

Jan 26, 2012 8:01:09 PM

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Jan 26, 2012 6:01:07 PM

Subterranean | 5/11/10 | Mayer Hawthorne

Retro soul man Mayer Hawthorne spins the best videos the indie world has to offer on this week's Subterranean.

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Jan 26, 2012 4:01:27 PM

Is 'Hunger Games' YA's Best Chance For A Best Picture Oscar?

As Harry Potter weathers his final Academy snub, Hobnobbing wonders if Katniss Everdeen can carry the genre's mantle.
By Amy Wilkinson

Jennifer Lawrence in "The Hunger Games"
Photo: Lionsgate

"The Hunger Games" star Jennifer Lawrence set aside her flaming bow and arrow in favor of a gilded envelope Tuesday morning to announce the 2012 Oscar nominations alongside Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Tom Sherak. And sadly — though not entirely surprisingly for young-adult-literature aficionados — the "Harry Potter" franchise was once again (and for the final time) overlooked for a Best Picture nomination.

Which raises the question: Does the Academy have something against YA adaptations?*

Curiously, adaptations have historically been strong performers at the Academy Awards. Past statuettes have gone to the literary likes of "All Quiet on the Western Front," "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and "Silence of the Lambs." And this year's contenders are no different. Six of the nine Best Picture nominees, including "The Descendants," "Hugo," "The Help," "Moneyball," "War Horse" and "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close," can be found lining the shelves of your local Barnes & Noble, while five of last year's 10 nominees were also based on bound works, according to USA Today.

The side of the equation, then, troubling Academy voters seems to be the "young adult" variable. Though to be fair, there's not much of a precedent for awards recognition seeing as mining teen lit for film fodder is a relatively new phenomenon. Sure, there are exceptions like S.E. Hinton's "The Outsiders" (made into a film all the way back in 1983, starring Matt Dillon and Patrick Swayze), but for every "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist" or "The Princess Diaries" there are tens (if not hundreds) of seminal works, like "The Catcher in the Rye" or "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret," languishing in pre-production hell or undeserved obscurity as far as film financiers are concerned.

Which leaves us with "The Hunger Games," the latest YA sensation, which blazes into theaters in less than two months. And while it's hard to predict the awards-season viability of a movie we haven't even seen yet, there are at least a few indicators to suggest it could be the first YA novel adaptation to win (or at the very least be nominated for) Best Picture. For one, Oscar's already made acquaintance with many members of the cast and crew. Our friends at NextMovie crunched the numbers, discovering that the actors and technical experts behind "The Hunger Games" boast 30 Oscar nominations — even Effie Trinket couldn't turn her nose up at that. And while a film like "Twilight" (which, let's be honest, won't be sharing a feather-strewn canopy bed with the Academy anytime soon) focuses on a fantastical, star-crossed-lovers plotline, "The Hunger Games" deals more seriously with issues of life, death and government control, likely giving it more credence with voters.

Though most of the above could surely have been said of "Harry Potter," it apparently wasn't meant to be. Hopefully with "The Hunger Games" (and the slew of approximately 4 million teen novels in various stages of adaptation) the Academy will begin recognizing artful YA adaptations as the deserving films that they are. Because we already do.

Do you think "The Hunger Games" is blazing a path for YA novel adaptations? Sound off in the comments below and tweet me @amymwilk with your thoughts and suggestions for future columns!

*Whether, in fact, "Harry Potter" constitutes YA is a topic of much debate in and of itself, though for the sake of this piece, I assert that the final novel's dark tone and subject matter secure its spot at the teen table.

Check out everything we've got on "The Hunger Games."

For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.

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