The CEO of Bellator MMA gave a statement: "We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating untimely loss of Kimbo Slice, a beloved member of the Bellator family. One of the most popular MMA fighters ever, Kimbo was a charismatic, larger-than-life personality that transcended the sport. Outside of the
Slice was born in the
In 2008, in just 14 seconds, he lost a much-ballyhooed fight with Seth Petruzelli. The fight was called by the referee when Kimbo seemed to stop defending himself against Petruzelli's punches, leading to accusations that Slice had thrown it. Still, he
Slice had once been homeless and had also worked as a bouncer in the porn industry. He had six children.
Upon news of his death, fans paid their respects on Twitter:
"@WSHHFANS: The fight that made Kimbo Slice famous. Kevin Ferguson Feb 8, 1974 - June 6, 2016. RIP https://t.co/78Xrkj1Zft"
— Ray'Kwon??? (@Money_Yezzo) June 7, 2016
Without Kimbo there is no Dawg Fight. He was the godfather of the game. @therealdada5000's mentor and inspiration. https://t.co/LFXewx9rKw
— Billy Corben (@BillyCorben) June 7, 2016
Go beat somebody up in a backyard today in honor of Kimbo Slice.
— C.J.M. (@charles270) June 7, 2016