After a week of heated debates all across social media and beyond, MTV's "Hip-Hop Brain Trust" has crowned Kendrick Lamar the "Hottest MC in the Game."  Kendrick, who visited the MTV newsroom for its Hottest MCs in the Game VIII special on Thursday, got the news just before heading in for what he was told was a routine interview.

"That's craaaaaazy," Kendrick responded when it was revealed to him that he'd been ranked #1, thanks in part to his debut release, good kid, m.A.A.d city.  The Compton native notched a spot above more established stars like Nas and Kanye West, who came in at #4 and #7, respectively.  MTV's panel of hip-hop experts based rankings on impact, lyrics, sales, buzz, style and intangibles.  

In the #2 spot, there's 2 Chainz, who was noted for his Based on a T.R.U. Story solo debut and hot guest feature on G.O.O.D. Music's "Mercy."  He tweeted "Def a blessing.... Always wanted to be mentioned on that list." 

At #3, there's Rick Ross, who got props for his 2012 album God Forgives, I Don't and Maybach Music Group legacy.  Number 4, Nas, got love for his long career, which includes his latest album Life Is Good. 

Drake was named #5, a number that he seems to take issue with.  Perhaps it's no coincidence that he unleashed a searing single, out of nowhere it seems, titled "5 AM in Toronto."  On the track, he raps, "I swear, f**k them n**gas this year/ I made Forbes list, n**ga/ F**k your list, everything's lookin' gorgeous."

Big Sean took #6, one spot above his G.O.O.D. Music boss Kanye at #7.  MTV named A$AP Rocky, Future and Meek Mill numbers 8, 9 and 10, respectively on the "Hottest MCs" list.

Here's the full list:

1. Kendrick Lamar
2. 2 Chainz
3. Rick Ross
4. Nas
5. Drake
6. Big Sean
7. Kanye West
8. A$AP Rocky
9. Future
10. Meek Mill

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