MTV released its 2009 list of the Hottest MCs in the Game and Eminem was noticeably absent, causing quite a stir on the Internet. Jay-Z, who came in at No. 1, defended Eminem in a letter to MTV News.

“MTV, Thanx for this nod of appreciation. Although I don’t strive to be ‘hot’ for any particular year, I thank you for the acknowledgment. My whole goal is to be recognized as the best ever. I created the term ‘best rapper alive’ as a sign of respect to my fallen comrades (Biggie and Tupac). I believe I’ve allowed a significant grace period, and I believe I would not be respecting myself if being the absolute best was not my goal, and that’s why I continue to push myself until exhaustion … salute.

Sidebar: Kanye moment if I may … Eminem?!?! I think you do the credibility of this list a disservice if you don’t thoroughly explain his omission. As of this second he has the highest selling rap album of the year and a scene stealing verse on the best ‘posse’ cut of the year. (*Hands mic back to Taylor Swift … and nobody was harmed, I apologize in advance.)”

MTV has responded to Em’s omission by saying, “Eminem is one of the best ever on the mic. His track record is undeniable. The Hottest list deals with right now, though. If the Brain Trust had compiled the Hottest list back in May, there’s no doubt Eminem would have made the Top 10.”

Click here for the full list.