CORAL SPRINGS, FLA. (WSVN) - Kevin Ferguson, aka Kimbo Slice has died in South Florida after being hospitalized, Bellator MMA confirms.
According to a report from the Sun Sentinel, Slice was diagnosed with heart failure and was told that he would need a heart transplant before passing away at 7:30 p.m., Monday. Hospital officials were getting ready to transfer Slice to a Cleveland facility.
American Top Team, the team Slice used to train for, Tweeted the news shortly before 11 p.m. Monday.
The ATT Family and South Florida community lost a legend today. RIP Kimbo. pic.twitter.com/sjs8ctyJMd
— American Top Team (@AmericanTopTeam) June 7, 2016
Kimbo Slice, 42, became famous after his backyard street fights went viral across the internet before becoming a professional fighter.
Scott Coker, president of Bellator MMA released the following statement Monday evening:
“We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating and 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 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.”
Nick Davrosi, a fan, recalled Kimbo’s reach beyond the octagon. “I was devastated ’cause I’m a big fight fan. We’re locals. I see Kimbo all the time, and he’s nice to my kids, just everybody. It’s sad. He’s so young, you know? He went from nothing to something. He has kids of his own, so my condolences out to his kids.”
Coral Springs police were dispatched to Slice’s home to make sure there wouldn’t be large crowds after they received multiple calls from national media outlets.
According to Coral Springs Sgt. Carla Kmiotek, Slice was transported to Northwest Medical Center in Margate, a nearby city.
On June 3, Slice reportedly had shortness of breath and was complaining about severe abdominal pain at Northwest Medical Center.
Several celebrities and fighters have been sharing their thoughts on Slice’s passing.
Rest in Peace Kimbo you have always rep South Florida as a class Act you brought MMA to the world like know other
— Luther Luke Campbell (@unclelukereal1) June 7, 2016
We battled inside the cage, warrior vs warrior. Outside the cage, we have loved ones. REST IN PEACE KIMBO SLICE. May God Watch Over You.
— KEN SHAMROCK (@ShamrockKen) June 7, 2016
I knew kimbo since I was 19. I was a kid. Wouldn't be where I'm at it if it wasn't for him.
— Jorge Masvidal (@GamebredFighter) June 7, 2016
Kimbo was scheduled to fight James Thompson at the O2 arena in London on July 16.
Police tell 7News that no foul play is suspected and an emergency call was not placed.
To read the full Sun Sentinel report, click here.
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