“While he will never be forgotten for his fighting style and transcendent image, Slice will also be remembered for his warm personality and commitment to his family and friends.”Īmerican Top Team, the prominent South Florida gym where Slice trained for many years, mourned his passing.
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“He carried himself as a true professional during his time in our organization,” the UFC’s statement read. Slice also fought at UFC 113 in Montreal, losing to Matt Mitrione before taking his five-year break from MMA. The UFC issued a statement praising Slice, who appeared on a highly-rated season of their long-running reality competition show, “The Ultimate Fighter,” in 2009. With Slice and pioneering featherweight Gina Carano as the top attractions, EliteXC’s two CBS shows drew big television ratings and introduced millions of viewers to MMA.Īlthough Slice never reached the sport’s competitive heights, his aura never waned among MMA fans: His bout with Harris four months ago drew the largest television ratings in Bellator’s history. He was the star of the first MMA show broadcast on network television, beating Thompson by third-round knockout in May 2008 on CBS with the defunct EliteXC promotion. Slice was scheduled to headline the Bellator 158 show in London next month in a bout against James Thompson. His loss leaves us all with extremely heavy hearts.”
Outside of the cage he was a friendly, gentle giant and a devoted family man. “One of the most popular MMA fighters ever, Kimbo was a charismatic, larger-than-life personality that transcended the sport. “We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating and untimely loss of Kimbo Slice,” Coker said. Slice beat Dhafir “Dada 5000” Harris with a third-round knockout in February at Bellator 149 in Houston, but the result was overturned after Slice tested positive for steroid use. Slice’s death also was confirmed by Scott Coker, the CEO of Bellator, which promoted his return to MMA last year after a five-year absence. While he went only 5-2 and never won a championship belt, the personable Slice became one of MMA’s best-known figures, attracting large television audiences and crowds to his growing sport. Videos of his violent knockout victories in those bouts became wildly popular online, both for Slice’s raw punching power and his distinctive, intimidating appearance.Īfter gaining viral internet fame at a time when the phenomenon was still relatively new, Slice studied MMA and eventually competed for several promotions, including the UFC and Bellator, which staged his two most recent fights. Kmiotek said there is no active police investigation, and no foul play is suspected.īorn in the Bahamas and raised in the Miami area, Slice was a strip club bouncer and bodyguard who began competing in unsanctioned street fights in 2003. Digital Replica Edition Home Page Close Menu
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