J Balvin performed Zun Zun with Justin Quiles and Lenny Tavarez, as well as Noventa with DJ Snake at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, but that wasn’t his only role at the show. He also had the honor of introducing Ricky Martin on stage.
In a ceremony dominated by women—22 of the 30 awards went to female artists, with Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande among the biggest winners—the Puerto Rican star also had his moment in the spotlight.
«He not only paved the way for the Latin takeover, he built it from scratch. He inspired me and so many Latinos. If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here,» the Colombian said about his Puerto Rican colleague.
After his performance, he received the newly created Latin Icon Award, becoming its first-ever recipient. The award was presented by Jessica Simpson, who had been his opening act 26 years ago.
Ricky Martin’s Performance
Ricky Martin took the stage wearing a special outfit for the occasion: an elegant white jacket, black pants, and a neck scarf. During his performance—a medley of hits starting with Livin’ la Vida Loca—he gradually removed some of the pieces.
He sang in both English and Spanish, delivering his signature dynamic choreography, getting artists like Ariana Grande and Rosé dancing along. They could be seen having a blast to songs like Pégate, Shake Your Bon-Bon, Vente pa’ca, María, and The Cup of Life.
«In 1999, when I was just starting out, the biggest pop star in the world asked me to open for her on her Livin’ La Vida Loca tour. It was a dream come true,» Simpson said while presenting him with the trophy.
«Thank you so much because it’s been 40 years. I started when I was a baby, and we’re still here. We just want to unite countries, we just want to break boundaries. We just want to keep music alive.»
He didn’t hesitate to dedicate the award to his four children: «Everything I do, I do thinking of you and with you in my heart.»
Exactly 26 years ago, Ricky Martin appeared at these awards for the first time. That year, he performed She’s All I Ever Had and Livin’ La Vida Loca, becoming one of the most celebrated artists. Decades later, he’s still going strong, delighting new generations as well.
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