Kevin Ferguson was a uniquely American success story. Born in the Bahamas, he moved to the USA when he was young. The family was of modest means. He got a job working security for a high school friend, who had become a porn mogul. Flying around in a private jet, Ferguson also took part in and helped form a bareknuckle boxing tradition that became a defining aspect of some of Miami’s meaner streets.
Known by his nickname Kimbo, and a last name, Slice, bestowed upon him by the Internet after slicing open an opponent’s eye, the fighter achieved fame of sorts. His team flew to New England for a sparring session with then police officer and MMA fighter, now trainer, Sean “The Cannon” Gannon. Kimbo lost, but his fame only increased.
He then entered MMA in highly publicized events, going 4-1, before appearing in season 10 of The Ultimate Fighter. Not coincidentally, it was the most popular in the history of the long running reality show. He went 1-1 in the UFC, before turning to boxing, going 7-0 between 2011-2013. In 2015 he returned to MMA, signing with the now Scott Coker run Bellator MMA, beating Ken Shamrock, and then beating Dada 5000?, before the decision was changed to a No Contest, after Ferguson failed a PED test.
He died last night, reportedly of a heart attack.
As anyone who knew him personally will attest, Kimbo Slice was a ferocious, heavy handed product of street fighting, but Kevin Ferguson was a bright, kind, humble, thoughtful family man. He is survived by his six children and long-time fiancee, Antionette Ray.
Twitter reacted, with great sadness and respect.
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Rest in Peace Kevin Ferguson, born February 8, 1974 in Nassau, Bahamas, died June 6, 2016 in Margate, Florida. Gone far, far too young at 42.
