Former UFC fighter Kimbo Slice dies at 42; was slated for Bellator fight in July

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Kimbo Slice died at age 42. (Photo via Associated Press)

Kimbo Slice, a well-known MMA fighter, is dead, according to reports. He was 42.

TMZ first reported Kimbo Slice’s death on Monday night. Slice, who last fought at Bellator 149 in February against Dada 5000, competed in both Bellator and UFC bouts during his career. Slice — real name Kevin Ferguson — first gained fame after a video of him fighting went viral.

Bellator CEO Scott Coker confirmed the death to TMZ. Slice had been hospitalized earlier on Monday, according to multiple reports.

“We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating untimely loss of Kimbo Slice, a beloved member of the Bellator family,” he said. “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.”