Slice was due to fight in London next month against James Thompson at Bellator 158.
Scott Coker, the president of Bellator MMA, said he was shocked and saddened by the loss of Kimbo Slice. He described Slice as a beloved member of the Bellator family.
Coker also said Slice was a gentle giant outside the cage and he was a devoted family man. Coker continued to say that his thoughts and prayers were with Slice’s family, friends, teammates and his fans.
Saddened and shocked at the passing of our family member Kimbo Slice. Full statement: pic.twitter.com/RwxjwdAP1k
— Scott Coker (@ScottCoker) June 7, 2016
American Top Team, Slice’s training outfit, confirmed his death. ATT took to Twitter and posted that the ATT family and the community of South Florida lost a legend.
The ATT Family and South Florida community lost a legend today. RIP Kimbo. pic.twitter.com/sjs8ctyJMd
— American Top Team (@AmericanTopTeam) June 7, 2016
The UFC also released a statement, saying it was saddened to learn that Kevin Ferguson, Kimbo Slice’s real name, passed away. The statement said Slice will forever be part of UFC history as a contestant on The Ultimate Fighter in 2009 and for fighting twice inside the Octagon, once at the Ultimate Fighter Finale and once at UFC 113.
As of now, the cause of Slice’s death has not been announced, but no foul play is suspected. The fighter leaves behind six kids and his longtime girlfriend.
