Written by Tiffani Given
Modified & Updated: 06 Dec 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Kimbo Slice was a force to be reckoned with in the world of mixed martial arts and street fighting. Known for his brute strength and intimidating presence, he quickly became a household name. However, there is more to Kimbo Slice than meets the eye. In this article, we will uncover 9 surprising facts about this legendary celebrity. From his early days as a backyard brawler to his unexpected transition into professional fighting, Kimbo Slice’s story is one of determination and resilience. So, sit back and prepare to be amazed by these little-known details about the man who captivated audiences with his raw talent and larger-than-life personality.
Key Takeaways:
- Kimbo Slice, originally known as Kevin Ferguson, gained fame through viral street fight videos before transitioning to professional MMA and boxing, leaving a lasting impact on combat sports.
- Kimbo Slice’s journey from internet street fighter to professional athlete, including his rap single and reality TV appearance, showcases his versatility and enduring legacy in the combat sports world.
Kimbo Slice’s Real Name Was Kevin Ferguson
Before he rose to fame as an internet street fighting sensation, Kimbo Slice was known as Kevin Ferguson. He adopted the name Kimbo Slice during his underground fighting days, and it stuck with him throughout his career.
Kimbo Slice Started His Career as a Bodyguard
Prior to gaining fame as a fighter, Kimbo Slice worked as a bodyguard for various celebrities, including hip-hop artist Akon. His imposing physical presence and background in street fighting made him a natural fit for the job.
Kimbo Slice Gained Popularity Through Online Street Fight Videos
Kimbo Slice’s rise to fame can be attributed to his viral street fight videos. These videos, which showcased his unmatched strength and knockout power, attracted millions of views on platforms like YouTube and catapulted him into the mainstream spotlight.
Kimbo Slice Competed in Both MMA and Boxing
While Kimbo Slice first gained notoriety through his street fighting videos, he eventually transitioned into professional mixed martial arts (MMA) and boxing. He competed in organizations such as EliteXC, UFC, and Bellator, showcasing his skills in the ring.
Kimbo Slice Had an Impressive MMA Record
During his MMA career, Kimbo Slice amassed a record of 5 wins and 2 losses. His victories were often punctuated by his devastating knockout power, earning him a reputation as one of the most feared strikers in the sport.
Kimbo Slice Appeared on the Reality TV Show “The Ultimate Fighter”
In 2009, Kimbo Slice participated in the tenth season of the reality TV show “The Ultimate Fighter.” Although he did not win the competition, his appearance on the show further increased his popularity and showcased his charismatic personality.
Kimbo Slice Released a Rap Single
Kimbo Slice showcased his versatility by releasing a rap single titled “It’s A Fight” in The song, which was featured in the movie “Never Back Down,” highlighted his tough persona and resonated with his fan base.
Kimbo Slice Had a Brief Professional Boxing Career
In addition to his success in MMA, Kimbo Slice also competed as a professional boxer. He had a brief boxing career, winning his professional debut by knockout in just 17 seconds.
Kimbo Slice’s Legacy Lives On
Despite his untimely death in 2016, Kimbo Slice’s impact on the combat sports world continues to be felt. His unique journey from internet street fighter to professional athlete has left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kimbo Slice was a legend in the world of combat sports. From his humble beginnings as a street fighter to his rise to fame in MMA, Kimbo Slice captured the hearts of fans around the world. His raw power, intimidating presence, and larger-than-life personality made him an unforgettable figure in the world of celebrity sports. Despite his untimely passing, Kimbo Slice’s legacy lives on. He will always be remembered as a true warrior who gave his all in the ring and inspired countless others to pursue their dreams. Kimbo Slice’s impact on the world of combat sports will forever be cherished and celebrated.
FAQs
Q: How did Kimbo Slice become famous?
A: Kimbo Slice gained fame through his street fights that were filmed and uploaded to the internet. These videos went viral and caught the attention of MMA promotions, leading to his professional fighting career.
Q: What were Kimbo Slice’s notable achievements in MMA?
A: Kimbo Slice had a successful career in MMA, with notable wins over fighters like Ken Shamrock and Houston Alexander. He also participated in the tenth season of The Ultimate Fighter reality show.
Q: Was Kimbo Slice a trained martial artist?
A: While Kimbo Slice did not have any formal training in martial arts, he was known for his street fighting skills and raw power. He later trained and competed in various combat sports disciplines.
Q: What was Kimbo Slice’s real name?
A: Kimbo Slice’s real name was Kevin Ferguson.
Q: How old was Kimbo Slice when he passed away?
A: Kimbo Slice passed away on June 6, 2016, at the age of 42.
Q: Did Kimbo Slice have any other occupations outside of fighting?
A: Yes, Kimbo Slice had a brief career in professional boxing and also appeared in movies and television shows, further expanding his presence in the entertainment industry.
Q: What was Kimbo Slice’s fighting style?
A: Kimbo Slice was known for his aggressive fighting style, relying on his powerful punches and knockout ability. He was considered a brawler with exceptional striking skills.
Q: Did Kimbo Slice have any family?
A: Yes, Kimbo Slice had six children and was known for his strong devotion to his family.
Q: How is Kimbo Slice remembered today?
A: Kimbo Slice is remembered as an iconic figure in combat sports, admired for his raw talent, charisma, and inspirational journey from street fighting to professional MMA.
Kimbo Slice's incredible journey from street fighter to MMA star captivates fans worldwide. His legacy inspires enthusiasts to explore the world of Mixed Martial Arts, uncover MMA secrets, and delve into the history of the UFC. Join us as we pay tribute to this legendary figure and discover more about the thrilling combat sports he helped popularize.
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