Drake presented Rihanna with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the VMAs last night in Madison Square Garden. The rapper gave a heartfelt introduction for the award winner who he has been rumored to have a romantic relationship with.
Drake spoke about the first time he met Rihanna when he was a nobody in the music world doing background music for Rihanna’s “Pon de Replay.” He also spoke proudly about Rihanna’s song titled “Work,” which he also had his hands on.
“When it comes to music, she relentlessly takes over the charts with every release. When it comes to performance, they swarm in masses just to be in her presence, obviously,” Drake boasted about the beautiful singer from Barbados.
Toward the end of his speech, Drake referred to Rihanna as “someone I’ve been in love with since I was 22 years old,” before handing her the award and trying to kiss her.
Rihanna dodged the kiss. Maybe she’s not really into PDA. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)
Rihanna leaned away from the kiss, but the two embraced onstage before delivering her acceptance speech.
Earlier this week, Drake posted a billboard in Los Angeles congratulating Rihanna on the award. She showed her appreciation for the gesture on Instagram, captioning the post “when he extra…!!!” with a heart and gold emoji.
“This is a night for us all to be thankful for what you have done for us! You have affected so many of our lives in the best way possible,” Drake captioned the post. “Tonight we celebrate you!”