Kimbo Slice Dead at 42

[CM Punk]

Former Ultimate Fighting Championship competitor Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson has been hospitalized in Florida. First reported by TMZ Sports, his situation has been described as "dire."

The 42-year-old native of Cutler Ridge, Florida made his mixed-martial arts debut in 2007 after a several years of work as a bodyguard and a series of amateur street fighting videos went viral. He joined the UFC in 2009 and won his debut fight by unanimous decision against Houston Alexander in December of that year. The following May, Slice was defeated by Matt Mitrione by TKO in the second round in what would end up being his final fight for the promotion.

Slice made his debut for Bellator last June after nearly five years away from MMA. In the meantime, Slice embarked on a boxing career and posted a 7-0 record. In his much-criticized return fight, Slice knocked out Ken Shamrock in the first round.

He last fought in February and initially posted a TKO win over Dhaffir "Dada 5000" Harris, but the decision was overturned when Slice tested positive for the banned substance Nandrolone. The fight has been officially deemed a no-contest.

Source

I'm seeing reports that he's dead, but I'll wait for confirmation.

Edit: Yup, he passed away. RIP. Remember back in Middle School watching his street fight videos and getting pumped when Ultimate Fighter picked him up.

 

[Roadster]

- His team apparently confirmed it.

 

[Solid Snake]

"We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating and untimely loss of Kimbo Slice, a beloved member of the Bellator family," Bellator president Scott Coker said in a statement, calling Slice "a charismatic, larger-than-life personality that transcended the sport."

"Outside of the cage he was a friendly, gentle giant and a devoted family man," Coker said. "His loss leaves us all with extremely heavy hearts, and our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Ferguson family and all of Kimbo's friends, fans, and teammates."

@CM Punk It has been confirmed, like an hour ago. He passed away.

 

[Dolph'sZiggler]

I can't believe Bellator (or any athletic commission) let this guy fight DADA a few months ago. That was the biggest shit show in MMA history. Ken/Royce as well. These guys should not be fighting

 

[Swift]

RIP