MMA fighter Kimbo Slice passed away last night at the age of 42.
According to TMZ, the fighter, whose real name is Kevin Ferguson, was admitted to hospital in Florida early on Monday in what they described as a 'dire situation'.
Slice last fought for MMA promotion Bellator as a heavyweight. The company has issued a statement regarding his death.
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.
The UFC has also issued a statement.
UFC is saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Ferguson, known to fans around the world as Kimbo Slice.
Slice will forever be a part of UFC history as a contestant on season 10 of The Ultimate Fighter in 2009, and for having fought twice inside the Octagon at The Ultimate Fighter Finale and UFC 113. He carried himself as a true professional during his time in our organization.
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.
UFC offers its sincere condolences to Slice’s family, friends and teammates at American Top Team.
Slice fought out of the American Top Team Gym in Coconut Creek, Florida.
The ATT Family and South Florida community lost a legend today. RIP Kimbo. pic.twitter.com/sjs8ctyJMd
— American Top Team (@AmericanTopTeam) June 7, 2016
He last fought in Bellator in February when he beat Dada 5000. That result was later overturned due to a failed drugs test by the 42-year-old. In his fight prior that, he scored a first round KO of Ken Shamrock at Bellator 138. He was scheduled to fight James Thompson at the O2 Arena in London in July.
Slice initially came to prominence in the early 2000s for his backyard fight videos which made him an internet sensation.
