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Notable MMA Fighter and internet sensation, Kimbo Slice, passed away last night at the age of 42.
Slice, whose real name was Kevin Ferguson, rose to fame by videotaping and posting his bareknuckle street brawls on popular internet sites like YouTube. After bringing in millions of views with his street fights, Slice transitioned to the professional scene.
Slice was known for his tough chin, mountainous physique and fearlessness in the ring.
He took part in numerous MMA events with promotion companies like Bellator, Strikeforce, EliteXC, and the UFC. His professional MMA record was 5-2-0.
Local Gainesville lawyer Michael Sawyer, of DeCarlis and Sawyer, spoke about his encounters with Slice and when he would fight with the International Sport Karate Association.
In an interview with Steve Russell, of ESPN Gainesville 95.3 FM, Sawyer harped on Slice’s fearlessness and willingness to fight anyone.
“We could put him against anybody, any weight, any size, any skill and he would just turn the thing into the apocalypse of a fight,” Sawyer said.
Slice was born in the Bahamas and grew up in Cutler Ridge, Fla.. Slice attended both Bethune-Cookman University and the University of Miami, where held an athletic scholarship. After college, Slice had a tryout with the Miami Dolphins and was part of the preseason squad, but was later cut before the season started.
The ATT Family and South Florida community lost a legend today. RIP Kimbo. pic.twitter.com/sjs8ctyJMd
— American Top Team (@AmericanTopTeam) June 7, 2016
“We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating and untimely loss of Kimbo Slice, a beloved member of the Bellator family,” Bellator CEO Scott Coker said in a statement. “One of the most popular MMA fighters ever, Kimbo was a charismatic, larger-than-life personality that transcended the sport.”
Coral Springs police spokeswoman Sgt. Carla Kmiotek confirmed that Slice’s death was not under investigation and that no foul play was suspected.
Slice is survived by his six children—three boys and three girls, according to his website.
