Kimbo Slice passed away on Monday at age 42, but a cause of death has yet to be determined
The MMA fighter was hospitalized in Florida on Monday and was said to be in dire condition before passing away. Bellator CEO Scott Coker confirmed the news late Monday night.
"We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating untimely loss of Kimbo Slice, a beloved member of the Bellator family," Coker said via TMZ. "One of the most popular MMA fighters ever, Kimbo was 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. 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."
Slice, whose real name is Kevin Ferguson, has six children.
Slice last fought at Bellator 149 in February, where he defeated Dada 5000, however his victory was overturned after he tested positive for a banned substance. It's unknown at this time if any banned substances contributed to his death.
The MMA combatant competed in "The Ultimate Fighter" in 2009 and was 5-2-1 in mixed martial arts with three knockout wins. He also owned a 7-0 record as a boxer with six knockouts.
Though the cause of death isn't immediately known, the medical examiner revealed that there was nothing suspicious about his passing, according to TMZ Sports.
After his passing was revealed, many MMA personalities, journalists and executives took to social media to remember him:
Rip kimbo. A true warrior and really nice guy. Thoughts and prayers to his family. #KimboSlice
— Colby Covington (@ColbyCovMMA) June 7, 2016
Man, all I can say about @KimboSlice is that he was really a genuinely nice guy and a gentleman to everyone he dealt with in @BellatorMMA. — Jimmy Smith (@jimmysmithmma) June 7, 2016
So sorry to hear the news of Kimbo Slice passing. Such a nice man outside the cage/ring. RIP
— Jimmy Lennon Jr (@TheClassyJr) June 7, 2016
A very very sad day. Lost a true friend and a legend in @KimboSlice may he rest in peace. My thoughts goes out to his family. #RIPkimbo — Brad Pickett (@One_Punch) June 7, 2016
My deepest condolences go out to @KimboSlice family. Every time I spoke with him,his love for you shone through. #RIPKevinFerguson
— Mauro Ranallo (@mauroranallo) June 7, 2016
RIP Kimbo pic.twitter.com/Q4kZ4xhff8 — Dana White (@danawhite) June 7, 2016
So sorry to Kimbo's family. My thoughts are with you In this horrible time. #RIPKimbo
— Seth Petruzelli (@silverbackseth) June 7, 2016
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