Is it a legal maneuver for my ex to send a 1099 for 2000. Spousal support. I do realize that I have to report it as income

Also. He is 8 months behind. The spousal support should be 8x this

Nothing untoward about this at all, assuming that he reported the true amount he paid to you. It protects him so that he can deduct the amount without worrying that the IRS may challenge him on it, and it is proof for you to the IRS of the amount you actually received (as opposed to what the court order says he should have paid).

It is not an issue, provided he puts the support amount in Box #3 (Other Income) of the Form 1099-MISC, and NOT Box #7 (Non-employee Compensation).

If it is alimony, include in your income on Form 1040, line 11. Amounts for child support are not income to you.