In a heartwarming moment at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, or VMAs, Flavor Flav fulfilled his promise to Jordan Chiles by gifting her a striking bronze clock chain. This gesture came after the Olympic gymnast faced the emotional turmoil of having her bronze medal stripped by the International Olympic Committee, or IOC.
The VMAs took place on Sept. 11 at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, where Flav and Chiles shared the stage with host Megan Thee Stallion.
Flav and Chiles style hard on the VMAs’ carpet
Flavor Flav and Jordan Chiles first crossed paths on the black carpet of the VMAs, where both made bold fashion statements. Chiles dazzled in a silver off-white mini dress adorned with black, red and white striped trimmings, complemented by elbow-length gloves and knee-high tights. Flav — known for his eclectic style — sported a pink jacket and pants set, complete with a giant pink pendant and a diamond necklace.
The show kicked off with Megan Thee Stallion wearing a Team USA-inspired leotard, setting an energetic tone for the evening. After her opening remarks, she introduced Flav and Chiles, who took the stage to present an award.
A symbol of support
During their appearance, Flavor Flav took a moment to present Chiles with the bronze clock chain, a symbolic replacement for the medal she lost, according to E! Online. Flav had previously promised this unique gift, stating, “Something NO ONE else has,” in a message on social media. He reiterated his encouragement for Chiles to reach out to him, emphasizing his support for her during this challenging time.
Chiles’ journey and the stripped medal
The stripping of Chiles’ bronze medal marked a significant and emotional moment in her career, said ABC News. The IOC’s decision followed a ruling by the Court of Arbitration, which reversed a score change that had elevated Chiles from fifth to third place. This ruling came just days after she celebrated her victory with her teammates in Paris.
USA Gymnastics advocated for Chiles, submitting video evidence that the Court of Arbitration ultimately chose to ignore. As a result, the bronze medal was awarded to Romanian gymnast Ana Barbosu, with another Romanian gymnast, Sabrina Maneca-Voinea, finishing fourth.
Just hours before the VMAs, Chiles spoke at a Forbes event, sharing her ongoing quest for justice and peace regarding the IOC’s decision.
“The biggest thing that was taken from me was the recognition of who I was, not just my sport, but the person I am,” she poignantly stated to Rolling Stone.
Celebrating other achievements
After their heartfelt exchange, Flavor Flav and Jordan Chiles presented the award for Song of the Summer to Taylor Swift and Post Malone for their collaboration on the track “Fortnight.” The moment was filled with camaraderie as all four embraced on stage, celebrating their achievements together.
