Ciara Wouldn't Say Future's Name While Announcing Billboard Awards Nominees

Ciara was recently announced as host of the upcoming 2016 Billboard Awards alongside Ludacris, and while the show has not even begun, tension between the singer and her ex, Future, is already in the air.

Today, Ci and Luda appeared on ABC to give a preview of the nominees for the show, but midway through announcing the rap categories, Ciara briefly fell silent, before her co-host interjected and read the card name she refused to -- "Future!"

It would certainly be difficult to announce an ex at this kind of event, especially given the couple's turbulent history, but if Ciara plans on refraining from saying Future's name throughout the actual ceremony, perhaps she and Luda can figure out a script that works beforehand. Then again, maybe this is all a ploy for ratings. Catch the show May 22nd at 8 PM EST.

Check out the clip below.