Neil Patrick Harris Mimics LL Cool J

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Neil Patrick Harris and LL Cool J were nominated in the same category at the Creative Arts Emmys on Saturday, but according to the How I Met Your Mother star, this wasn't the first time the two actors have gone toe-to-toe.

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"I've taken him in two fights," joked Harris, who was nominated for hosting the Tonys, while LL Cool J was recognized for emceeing the Grammys. "There was a third. I ran -- long story. But in the two that we were face-to-face where he didn't sucker punch me, I killed him," Harris added jokingly.

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Harris' tall tale on the red carpet wound up foreshadowing what was to come, as he bested the NCIS: LA star by walking away with the Emmy for Outstanding Special Class Program. But if mimicry is the highest form of flattery, LL still received a top honor at the event, as Harris copied one of the rapper/actor's famous habits.

"He keeps doing that lip thing," said Harris, darting his tongue in and out like a snake. "He always does that. It's very distracting."

The Creative Emmys primarily honors excellence in showbiz jobs that take place behind the camera. Harris noted that while viewers may not be able to name their favorite makeup artist or set designer, they play an integral part in every TV show.

"These are the people that I think deserve the awards more than the fancy actor people," Harris said.

The Primetime Creative Arts Emmys airs Saturday, September 22 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ReelzChannel.