MTV VMAs Photos: Nicki Minaj Channels Lady Gaga

Ever since she burst on the scene, Nicki Minaj has fought back against comparisons calling her the hip-hop imitation of Lady Gaga. From her flashy, over-the-top costumes to her elaborate stage shows, it's hard to deny the similarities, and it'll be even harder after tonight's Video Music Awards.

Minaj showed up to the VMAs wearing a lace bodysuit adorned with red sequins, accented with spiked stilettos and a beaded police officer's hat atop a wild pink and yellow mane. What do you think? Did Minaj rip off Gaga's style, or is Minaj just doing her own thing? Sound off in the comments below.

Regardless of your thoughts on Minaj, she's already taken home one Moonman, is scheduled to perform with Alicia Keys later tonight, and is up for another VMA, so she's doing something right.

The MTV Video Music Awards were held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on September 6, 2012. Robert Pattinson was rumored to make an appearance, as well as Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and more of the hottest stars on the planet. At least the ones that weren't anxiously awaiting President Obama's speech at the Democratic National Convention.

See more photos of Nicki Minaj at the VMAs: