View source for Kimbo Slice

{{short description|Bahamian mixed martial artist (1974–2016)}}
{{redirect|Kimbo|other uses|Kimbo (disambiguation)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2012}}
{{Infobox martial artist
| name            = Kimbo Slice 
| image           = Kimbo Slice 1.jpg
| alt             =
| caption         = Slice in 2007
| birth_name      = Kevin Ferguson
| birth_date      = {{Birth date|1974|2|8}}
| birth_place     = [[Nassau, Bahamas|Nassau]], Bahamas
| death_date      = {{Death date and age|2016|6|6|1974|2|8}}
| death_place     = [[Margate, Florida]], U.S.
| height          = 6 ft 2 in
| weight          = 225 lb
| weight_class    = [[Heavyweight (MMA)|Heavyweight]]
| reach           = {{convert|77|in|cm|abbr=on}}
| style           = 
| stance          = 
| fighting_out_of = [[Miami]], Florida
| team            = [[American Top Team]]
| rank            =
| years_active    = 2005, 2007–2010, 2015–2016 ([[MMA]])<br>2011–2013 ([[Boxing]])
| box_win         = 7
| box_kowin       = 6
| box_loss        = 
| box_koloss      = 
| box_draw        = 
| box_nc          = 
| mma_kowin       = 4
| mma_subwin      = 
| mma_decwin      = 1
| mma_koloss      = 2
| mma_subloss     = 
| mma_decloss     = 
| mma_draw        = 
| mma_nc          = 1
| am_label        = Mixed martial arts exhibition record
| am_win          = 1
| am_kowin        = 
| am_subwin       =1 
| am_decwin       = 
| am_loss         = 1
| am_koloss       = 1
| am_subloss      = 
| am_decloss      =
| am_draw         = 
| am_nc           =
| occupation      = {{hlist|Mixed martial artist|boxer|bare-knuckle boxer|actor
}}
| children        = 6
| relatives       = [[Rhadi Ferguson]] (cousin)
| boxrec          = 575561
| sherdog         = 22388
| footnotes       =
| updated         = August 13, 2011
}}
'''Kevin Ferguson''' (February 8, 1974 – June 6, 2016), better known as '''Kimbo Slice''', was a Bahamian-American  [[Mixed martial arts|mixed martial artist]], [[Professional boxing|professional boxer]], and actor. Originally a [[bare-knuckle boxing|bare-knuckle boxer]], he became noted for his role in [[mutual combat]] [[street fighting|street fight]] videos in the 2000s which were spread online, leading ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' to call him "The King of the Web Brawlers".<ref name="rolling-stones">{{cite magazine|url= https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/inside-the-internets-never-ending-supply-of-gruesome-street-fighting-44290/ |title=Inside the Internet's Never-Ending Supply of Gruesome Street-Fighting |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=2006-06-28 |access-date=2021-08-04}}</ref>

Turning to mixed martial arts in 2005, Slice left the underground fighting scene and signed a professional contract with [[EliteXC]] after making his MMA debut with [[Cage Fury Fighting Championships]] in 2007, scoring a win over MMA pioneer and former UFC heavyweight contender [[Tank Abbott]] in 2008. In 2009, he competed in ''[[The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/mma/news;_ylt=Aj2Z7fvwG8OWACO94mRbQpdShgM6?slug=ki-kimbo060109&prov=yhoo&type=lgns|title=Y! Sports exclusive: Kimbo gets TUF - UFC - Yahoo! Canada Sports|last=Iole|first=Kevin|date=June 1, 2009|publisher=Ca.sports.yahoo.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120317231912/http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/mma/news?slug=ki-kimbo060109|archive-date=March 17, 2012|access-date=September 18, 2010}}</ref> where he lost in his first fight to eventual series winner [[Roy Nelson (fighter)|Roy Nelson]]. In his UFC debut, Slice defeated [[Houston Alexander]] in ''The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights'' finale.

After becoming a free agent via his dismissal from the UFC, Slice ventured into the professional boxing circuit, competing as a pro fighter from 2011 to 2013. In January 2015, he signed a contract with [[Bellator MMA]]<ref name="bellator">{{cite web|url= https://combatpress.com/2015/01/bellator-mma-adds-kevin-kimbo-slice-ferguson-to-roster/ |title=Bellator MMA Adds Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson to Roster|last1=Rooke|first1=Neil|date=January 15, 2015|website=Combat Press|access-date=2021-08-04}}</ref> going on to defeat MMA icon and long time veteran [[Ken Shamrock]]. He died of heart failure in 2016.<ref>{{cite web|title=Kimbo Slice died of heart failure|url=http://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/kimbo-slice-died-of-heart-failure-needed-heart-transplant-before-death/|website=CBS Sports|date=June 7, 2016 }}</ref><ref name="ESPN_7Jun16">{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/mma/story/_/id/16028501/kimbo-slice-had-awaiting-heart-transplant |title=Report: Kimbo Slice had been awaiting a heart transplant |work=ESPN |date=7 June 2016 |first=Brett |last=Okamoto}}</ref>

==Early life and education==
Slice was born Kevin Ferguson in [[Nassau, The Bahamas]], on February 8, 1974. He moved to the U.S. as a child and grew up in [[Cutler Ridge, Florida]].<ref name="sen">{{cite web|url=http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/other/sfl-kimbobio08,0,2137515.story |title=BIO: Kimbo Slice |publisher=Sun Sentinel |access-date=October 18, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080603202942/http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/other/sfl-kimbobio08%2C0%2C2137515.story |archive-date=June 3, 2008}}</ref> He was raised with his brother Devon and sister Renea by his mother Rosemary Clarke. He went to Bel-Air Elementary School,<ref name="sen" /> where he was reportedly involved in his first fight with fellow student Dominic Sauer at the age of 13 as he tried to defend a friend. Ferguson continued his studies at Cutler Ridge Middle School and later attended Richmond Heights Middle School.<ref name="jim" /> He attended [[Miami Palmetto Senior High School|Miami Palmetto High School]], where he was the star [[middle linebacker]].<ref name="esp">{{cite episode |title=Episode dated 11 December 2007 |series=E:60 |series-link=E:60 |airdate=December 11, 2007}}</ref> In 1992, his house in [[Perrine, Florida]] was destroyed by [[Hurricane Andrew]],<ref name="mia" /> forcing him to live in his 1987 [[Nissan Pathfinder]] for a month.<ref name="mag">{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/espnmag/story?id=3405201|title=NOT QUITE WHAT YOU WERE THINKING|last=Le Batard|first=Dan|date=May 20, 2008|publisher=[[ESPN]]|access-date=October 18, 2008}}</ref>

Ferguson attended both [[Bethune–Cookman University]] and the [[University of Miami]], where he was awarded an athletic scholarship<ref name="col">{{cite web|url=http://kimboslice.proelite.com/stuff/blog/101734/FIGHTER_BIO:_Kimbo_Slice_(Nov07)|title=FIGHTER BIO: Kimbo Slice (Nov07)|publisher=ProElite|access-date=October 18, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081122151005/http://kimboslice.proelite.com/stuff/blog/101734/FIGHTER_BIO:_Kimbo_Slice_(Nov07)|archive-date=November 22, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> and studied [[criminal justice]] but dropped out after a year and a half.<ref name="mia" /><ref name="int">{{cite web|url=http://www.cagefuryfighting.com/kimbo_interview.php |title=Two Worlds, One Cage |publisher=Cage Fury Fighting Championships |date=June 23, 2007 |access-date=July 9, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070701130558/http://www.cagefuryfighting.com/kimbo_interview.php |archive-date=July 1, 2007}}</ref>

==Career==
In 1997, he had a tryout with the [[Miami Dolphins]] and was part of the pre-season squad but was unable to secure a spot on the first team.<ref name="jim">{{cite episode |title=Jimmy Kimmel Live! interview with Kimbo Slice |series=Jimmy Kimmel Live! |series-link=Jimmy Kimmel Live! |airdate=February 7, 2008}}</ref><ref name="sun">{{cite web|url=http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/other/sfl-flspmmashowdown02sboct02,0,1084644.story|first=Sharon|last=Robb|title=To family, MMA star Kimbo Slice is a hulk with heart|date=October 2, 2008|access-date=October 18, 2008|publisher=Sun Sentinel|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081005051557/http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/other/sfl-flspmmashowdown02sboct02,0,1084644.story|archive-date=October 5, 2008|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Slice's cousin is United States [[judoka]] [[Rhadi Ferguson]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kimboslice.org/ |title=Kimbo Slice Fights |publisher=Kimboslice.org |access-date=September 18, 2010}}</ref>

Ferguson started working as a [[Bouncer (doorman)|bouncer]] for a [[strip club]] until high school friend and career-long manager, Mike Imber, offered him a job as a [[limousine]] driver and [[bodyguard]] for RK Netmedia, better known as [[Reality Kings]], a Miami-based pornography production/promotion company responsible for a number of popular adult subscription websites.<ref name="esp"/><ref name="mag"/> Ferguson maintained close ties with Reality Kings throughout the rest of his life; company representatives accompanied him, as his fight entourage, under the name Team Kimbo.

In 2002, he was charged with carrying a concealed weapon<ref name="mag"/> and in 2003, he began his career in unsanctioned [[mutual combat]] [[Street fighting|street fights]]. They were distributed through the Internet, mainly through the adult website SublimeDirectory and various other video platforms. In his first taped fight against a man named Big D, Ferguson left a large cut on his opponent's right eye which led Internet fans to call him Slice, becoming the last name to his already popular childhood nickname, Kimbo.<ref name="mag"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=682&zoneid=13|title='Ultimate' cop bashes rules, back in ring|last=Wedge|first=Dave|publisher=Boston Herald|format=Reprint|date=September 16, 2005|access-date=June 17, 2007|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070929103054/http://www.mmaweekly.com/absolutenm/templates/dailynews.asp?articleid=682&zoneid=13 <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = September 29, 2007}}</ref> His only ever loss in a street fight was to Sean Gannon, a Boston police officer and fellow mixed martial artist, in 2004.<ref>{{Cite web |last=MixedMartialArts.com |date=2021-09-11 |title=RIP Sean Gannon: The original Kimbo Slice slayer |url=https://www.mixedmartialarts.com/editorial/rip-sean-gannon |access-date=2023-12-17 |website=MMA Underground |language=en}}</ref>

==Mixed martial arts career==

=== Early career (2005-2007) ===
In 2005, Slice started training in martial arts at the Freestyle Fighting Academy under Marcos Avellan and [[David Avellan]]. At first, Slice was training exclusively for illegal street boxing, focusing on bare-knuckle techniques, dirty boxing from the clinch, and elbows—but then he began to develop an interest for MMA.

As an amateur, Slice lost his first and only bout to Jay Ellis by KO in the first round on October 8, 2005, at the 2nd event of the Xtreme Fighting Organization trials.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=XFO - Trials 2 |url=https://www.sherdog.com/events/XFO-Trials-2-10412 |access-date=2023-07-29 |website=Sherdog |language=en}}</ref>

In 2006, Slice signed to fight against former WBO Heavyweight champion and Olympic gold-medalist boxer [[Ray Mercer]] in a CFFC event in 2007. Slice was 33 years old facing Mercer, who would be 46 years old at the time. The match was scheduled as a three-round exhibition utilizing all professional rules of MMA combat, but did not count towards a professional record..

A month prior to the fight, Slice switched camps and was trained by retired MMA fighter Bas Rutten and boxing instructor Randy Khatami at Rutten's school, EliteMMA, in Thousand Oaks, California.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.efaceclub.com/videos/dm/x2n2un/watch-kimboffanews.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130904222306/http://www.efaceclub.com/videos/dm/x2n2un/watch-kimboffanews.html|url-status=dead|title=Kimbo-ffa-news, Free Video Download|date=September 4, 2013|archive-date=September 4, 2013}}</ref>

Slice and Mercer fought at ''[[Cage Fury Fighting Championships 5]]'', in [[Atlantic City, New Jersey|Atlantic City]] on June 23, 2007. Slice defeated Mercer with a [[guillotine choke]] at 1:12 into the first round.<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.fcfighter.com/news/Mar%202007
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070716033005/http://www.fcfighter.com/news/Mar%202007
|url-status=dead
|archive-date=July 16, 2007
|first=Jim
|last=Genia
|title=Former Heavyweight Boxing Champ to Take on Kimbo Slice
|date=March 20, 2007
|access-date=March 21, 2007
|publisher=Full Contact Fighter
}}</ref> CFFC V sold 20,000 ppv buys.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/sports/local/boxing/cage-fury-fighting-championships-thriving-after-some-early-hits/article_cac384df-3758-5086-b484-58606503b42d.html|title=Cage Fury Fighting Championships thriving after some early hits|author=David Weinberg|date=August 4, 2015 }}</ref> In a post-fight interview, Slice stated that he would like to fight [[Tank Abbott|David "Tank" Abbott]]. Abbott, who was a spectator, stood up from his seat and accepted the call out. One of the matchmakers for [[Cage Fury Fighting Championships|CFFC]] asked Slice for his assurance so that an October 12 bout at Cage Fury Fighting Championships 6 between Slice and "Tank" Abbott could be organized. This event was later canceled due to a promotion dispute. On October 11, 2007, [[ProElite]] announced that they had signed Slice to a deal and that he would make his professional debut on the November 10, 2007 EliteXC.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://samcaplan.proelite.com/62278 |title=SamCaplan.proelite.com » Exclusive: Gary Shaw comments on Kimbo Slice and Nick Diaz signings: EliteXC, Gary Shaw, Kimbo Slice, Nick Diaz: SamCaplan article |access-date=October 11, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012182927/http://samcaplan.proelite.com/62278 |archive-date=October 12, 2007 }}</ref>

===Elite XC (2007-2008)===

==== Turning professional and MMA icon ====
Slice fought Bo Cantrell, 10–9, at [[EliteXC: Renegade]]. He was originally set to make his professional MMA debut against Mike Bourke, a reformed street fighter, but a shoulder injury from Bourke led him to face Bo Cantrell.<ref>{{cite web |title='Showtime' for Kimbo, Noons |url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles.asp?n_id=9743 |access-date=May 21, 2011 |publisher=Sherdog.com}}</ref> Slice defeated Cantrell 19 seconds into the first round by submission due to strikes, landing a variety of elbows and body punches, after Cantrell failed to land a spinning back fist.

On February 16, 2008, Slice fought Tank Abbott in the main event at ''[[EliteXC: Street Certified]]''. He won by KO 43 seconds into the first round due to strikes, taking his pro record to 2–0. At the fight, his weight was announced at an all-time low of {{convert|234|lb|abbr=on}}, a far cry from his street fighting days of {{convert|280|lb|abbr=on}}. During his ensuing three fights, Slice did not utilize full skills in MMA and relied heavily on striking, punches and elbows, and modified Muay Thai.

On May 31, 2008, Slice fought in the main event of the first ever mixed martial arts event shown on prime time network television, ''[[EliteXC: Primetime]]''. Though one of the judges had each fighter winning one of the first two rounds, Slice's opponent [[James Thompson (fighter)|James Thompson]] won both on total points<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fightticker.com/story_0601081700_elitexc_primetime_aftermath |title=EliteXC "Primetime" aftermath: Kimbo Slice needs work, Brett Rogers wants a piece |publisher=Fight Ticker |access-date=May 21, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711010904/http://www.fightticker.com/story_0601081700_elitexc_primetime_aftermath |archive-date=July 11, 2011 |url-status=usurped }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Young |first=Rob |url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2008/6/1/543415/bloody-elbow-exclusive-jud |title=Exclusive: Judges Scorecards for Slice/Thompson |date=June 2008 |publisher=Bloody Elbow |access-date=May 21, 2011}}</ref><ref>EliteXC wrap. [https://web.archive.org/web/20090208014603/http://www.sportsnet.ca/mma/blogs/2008/06/01/brydon_elitexc_wrap/ archived] from [http://www.sportsnet.ca/mma/blogs/2008/06/01/brydon_elitexc_wrap/ the original] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090208014603/http://www.sportsnet.ca/mma/blogs/2008/06/01/brydon_elitexc_wrap/ |date=February 8, 2009 }} on February 7, 2014.</ref> by repeatedly taking down Slice and [[Ground and pound|grounding and pounding]]. In the opening seconds of the third round, however, Slice threw a [[Punch (strike)#Haymaker|haymaker]] to Thompson's left ear, which ruptured Thompson's [[cauliflower ear|cauliflower]]. This was soon followed by three unanswered punches to a standing Thompson, which led to a referee stoppage and the controversial win for Slice. Fellow EliteXC competitor [[Brett Rogers]], who himself had previously defeated Thompson in a previous Elite XC event, was particularly critical of Slice's victory, calling Slice's performance "garbage" in a post fight interview.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/24913940/ |title=Primetime pressure nearly sinks Kimbo - Mixed Martial Arts - NBCSports.com |publisher=Nbcsports.msnbc.com |date=June 1, 2008 |access-date=May 21, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110519195508/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/24913940// |archive-date=May 19, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> [[Frank Mir]] was also a critic of Slice, stating in an interview that "every time Kimbo Slice fights, it sets (mixed martial arts) back".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2008/09/17/frank-mir-says-every-time-kimbo-slice-fights-it-sets-the-sport-back-in-new-exclusive-5-oz-interview/ |title=Frank Mir says every time Kimbo Slice fights it sets the sport back in new exclusive 5 Oz. Interview |publisher=Five Ounces of Pain |date=September 21, 2008 |access-date=September 18, 2010}}</ref>

==== Fight with Petruzelli ====
On October 4, 2008, a Kimbo Slice vs. [[Ken Shamrock]] fight was supposed to take place at the [[BankAtlantic Center]] in [[Sunrise, Florida]] as part of [[CBS]]' ''Saturday Night Fights''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mma-live.com/kimbo-slice-to-fight-ken-shamrock/ |title=Kimbo Slice to Fight Ken Shamrock &#124; MMA-Live - UFC News, Results, Videos and UFC Betting |publisher=MMA-Live |date=August 25, 2008 |access-date=September 18, 2010 |archive-date=May 16, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100516184737/http://mma-live.com/kimbo-slice-to-fight-ken-shamrock/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://sherdog.com/news/news/shamrock-gets-next-shot-at-slice-14185 |title=Shamrock Gets Next Shot at 'Slice' |publisher=Sherdog.com |access-date=September 18, 2010}}</ref> However, Shamrock received a cut to the left eye during a warm-up only hours before the fight was to take place.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/elitexc-heat-play-by-play-14645 |title=EliteXC 'Heat' Play-by-Play |publisher=Sherdog.com |access-date=September 18, 2010}}</ref> This left the head of fight operations, Jeremy Lappen, to choose a replacement for the fight. Options were [[Seth Petruzelli]], [[Aaron Rosa]] and [[Frank Shamrock]]. Slice's team stated they did not want him fighting Frank no matter how much money was offered to them, so Lappen decided that Petruzelli was the best option for the main event. Slice agreed to take the fight after receiving a raise in pay, and took in $500,000.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/12951/elitexc-heat-salaries-arlvoski-and-kimbo-top-earners-with-500k.mma |title="EliteXC: Heat" salaries: Arlvoski and "Kimbo" top earners with $500K |publisher=MMAjunkie.com |date=October 6, 2008 |access-date=September 18, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120712174029/http://mmajunkie.com/news/12951/elitexc-heat-salaries-arlvoski-and-kimbo-top-earners-with-500k.mma |archive-date=July 12, 2012 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Petruzelli defeated Slice by [[Knockout|TKO]] 14 seconds into the first round of the bout.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meltzer |first=Dave |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mma/news?slug=dm-exclive100308&prov=yhoo&type=lgns |title=Kimbo TKOd by no-name in 14 seconds |publisher=Sports.yahoo.com |date=May 17, 2011 |access-date=May 21, 2011}}</ref>

Interviewed on Orlando radio show ''[[The Monsters in the Morning]]'' two days after the fight, Seth Petruzelli said that when they offered him a spot in the main event, EliteXC promoters added monetary incentives to dissuade him from using certain fighting techniques against Slice, in an attempt to protect their relatively unproven Internet star.

{{blockquote|The promoters kinda hinted to me and they gave me the money to stand and throw with him, they didn't want me to take him down. Let's just put it that way. It was worth my while to try and stand up punch him.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://monsters.fm/pages/monsters_media.html?feed=246187&article=4355604 |title=Monsters in the Morning interview with Seth Petruzelli |publisher= WTKS-FM |date=October 6, 2008}}</ref>}}

This added to the controversy surrounding the representation of Slice as a top flight martial artist by CBS and EliteXC.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mma/news;_ylt=AnOrWdaHQdqzatWq9qQNZpM9Eo14?slug=dw-kimbo100508&prov=yhoo&type=lgns |title=Final curtain for the Kimbo show |last=Wetzel |first=Dan |publisher=Yahoo! Sports |date=October 5, 2008}}</ref> The [[Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation]] started a preliminary investigation on the events surrounding the fight and its outcome.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2008/10/slice-petruzell.html |title=Slice-Petruzelli fight under investigation |last=Pugmire |first=Lance |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=October 9, 2008}}</ref>

However, Petruzelli retracted this statement a few hours later, claiming in a follow-up interview with MMA website ''FiveOuncesofPain.com'' that his previous comments on ''The Monsters'' had been misinterpreted.

{{blockquote|What was meant to be said was that I wanted to keep the fight standing for myself because I knew that was what the crowd, the promoters, and everyone wanted to see because that's more exciting than just taking someone to the ground. That was my thing only. I wanted to keep it exciting so I decided to keep it standing. It had nothing to do with anybody else. That was all me.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2008/10/06/petruzelli-disputes-reports-he-insinuated-he-received-a-bonus-for-keeping-slice-fight-a-standup-affair/ |title=Petruzelli disputes reports he received a bribe to keep Slice fight a standup affair | last=Caplan |first=Seth |publisher=FiveOunceOfPain.com |date=October 6, 2008}}</ref>}}

On October 23, 2008, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation concluded its investigation of the bout and found no wrongdoing.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/extra/mma/news/story?id=3660628 |title=ProElite exonerated of wrongdoing in Slice-Petruzelli fight |publisher=ESPN |date=October 23, 2008 |access-date=May 21, 2011}}</ref> By the end of October 2008, EliteXC was forced to file for [[bankruptcy]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.latimes.com/sports/boxing/la-sp-mma22-2008oct22,0,3542338.story |title=Mixed martial arts' Elite XC to file for bankruptcy |last=Pugmire |first=Lance |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 22, 2008}}</ref> Many in the mixed martial arts community, including Jay Thompson, executive consultant to the company, attributed EliteXC and ProElite's failure due to Slice's loss to Seth Petruzelli.<ref name="ban">{{cite web |url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2008/10/elite-xc-exec-k.html |title=Mixed martial arts' Elite XC to file for bankruptcy |last=Pugmire |first=Lance |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 22, 2008}}</ref>

===The Ultimate Fighter (2009)===
After Elite Xtreme Combat ceased operations, [[Dana White]] stated that if Slice wanted to compete in the [[Ultimate Fighting Championship]] he would have to win his way in by competing on ''[[The Ultimate Fighter]]'' TV show. White went on to say that he might create a show with heavyweights just for Kimbo Slice if he wanted in.<ref name="kocosports">{{Citation
 | last = Kiue
 | first = David
 | title = Dana White offers Kimbo Slice a spot on "The Ultimate Fighter"
 | newspaper = KocoSports.com
 | date = October 27, 2008
 | url = http://www.kocosports.com/absolutenm/anmviewer.asp?a=24664
 | access-date = May 18, 2012
 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> That statement became reality on June 1, when Kevin Iole of Yahoo.com stated Slice would participate in ''[[The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights]]''.

The coaches for the show were [[Quinton Jackson]] and [[Rashad Evans]], both former UFC Light Heavyweight Champions.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mma/news?slug=ki-kimbo060109&prov=yhoo&type=lgns |title=Y! Sports exclusive: Kimbo gets TUF | last=Caplan |first=Seth |publisher=yahoo.com |date=June 1, 2009}}</ref> Slice was the number one pick for coach Rampage and the second pick overall. In his first fight of the show, Slice was defeated by [[Roy Nelson (fighter)|Roy Nelson]] via TKO stoppage in the second round after repeated punches to the head in the [[crucifix position]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.blitzcorner.com/MMA/Kimbo-Slice-vs-Roy-Nelson-Results | title=Kimbo Slice vs Roy Nelson Results| access-date=October 1, 2009}}</ref> The broadcast was the highest rated MMA show in U.S. history with a 3.7 rating. The fight itself had 6 million viewers.<ref>[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]], October 12, 2009 issue</ref>

Following defeat in the preliminary round, Slice did not leave the show like some contestants after elimination, continuing to train with the remaining participants, befriending some of them and sharpening his own combat skills, particularly ground fighting and defense. Slice later turned down the opportunity to take [[Matt Mitrione]]'s place in the quarter-finals after it was revealed that he had arthritis in his knee. Slice brought record breaking views during his time on The Ultimate Fighter, and given his humbleness and apparent potential as he fought and honed his skills, it was decided he would be offered a contract by the UFC promotion regardless of his elimination at the hands of Nelson, albeit a lesser valued one than the coveted six figure deal the winner would receive.

=== Ultimate Fighting Championship (2009-2010) ===
Following his time on the Ultimate Fighter, Kimbo Slice would have two official fights in the UFC promotion.<ref name=":2">{{Citation |title=FIGHTLORE: Slice of Life - Legend of Kimbo Slice | date=August 29, 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6CLa0u7i_U |access-date=2024-03-06 |language=en}}</ref>

Slice made his debut when he fought [[Houston Alexander]] on December 5, 2009, at ''[[The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights Finale]]'' at a [[catchweight]] of {{convert|215|lb|kg|0}}.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/16659/houston-alexander-applies-for-nsac-license-meeting-kimbo-at-tuf-10-finale.mma |title=Houston Alexander applying for NSAC license, meeting Slice at TUF 10 Finale? |publisher=mmajunkie.com |access-date=October 29, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091030221212/http://mmajunkie.com/news/16659/houston-alexander-applies-for-nsac-license-meeting-kimbo-at-tuf-10-finale.mma |archive-date=October 30, 2009 }}</ref> In a fight that many thought would not leave the first round, Alexander would instead spend most of the first and third rounds circling Slice tentatively with little engagement. In the second round Slice managed to secure a suplex which very well may have tipped the judges' scorecards in his favor. Slice would win the bout by unanimous decision (29–28, 29–28, and 30–27) and Alexander would be cut from the promotion only days later, whilst Slice would earn another chance to compete in the promotion at a higher level.

While at the [[UFC 107]] pre-fight press event, Dana White stated his belief that Slice would function better in the [[Light heavyweight (MMA)|Light heavyweight]] division when addressing Slice's future in the UFC, but did not believe he cut enough pounds to make weight.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EVgVyCYgbU |title=DANA WHITE on Kimbo and Alexander's future |date=2009-12-11 |last=Cofield & Company |access-date=2025-06-01 |via=YouTube}}</ref> [[Mostapha al-Turk]] was reported as potential opponent for Slice if he was to move forward as a Heavyweight.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kim |first=Jung Soo |title=TUF 10 Finale: Roy Nelson Makes Fat People Proud, Kimbo Wins in UFC Debut |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/303508-tuf10-finale-nelson-makes-fat-people-proud-slice-gets-first-win-in-ufc |access-date=2025-06-01 |website=bleacherreport.com |language=en}}</ref>

On May 8, 2010, Slice made his [[pay-per-view]] and official heavyweight debut in his second fight at [[UFC 113]] against his fellow Ultimate Fighter veteran Matt Mitrione. He ended up losing in the second round via a TKO.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://mmafrenzy.com/13299/kimbo-slice-vs-matt-mitrone-official-for-ufc-113-on-may-8-in-montreal/|title= Kimbo Slice vs. Matt Mitrone Official for UFC 113 on May 8 in Montreal |publisher=mmafrenzy.com |access-date=February 22, 2010}}</ref> Slice exhibited the same sharpened ground fighting skill he gained from The Ultimate Fighter, landing an explosive takedown early on and was thought to have taken the first round on the judges cards, but Mitrione began to chop down the senior Slice with hard leg kicks that led to him gaining mount. Following the loss to Mitrione, Dana White stated that it was "probably Kimbo's last fight in the UFC".<ref>{{cite news |title=White: Slice "Probably" Out the UFC's Door |publisher=sherdog.com |url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/White-Slice-Probably-Out-the-UFCs-Door-24361 |access-date=May 10, 2010}}</ref> But he still praised Slice, stating "He's impressed me as a human being and as a fighter, and I like him and the guys who represent him very much. I'm glad to have met Kimbo Slice" and the former street brawler had made it farther in the promotion than he expected.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Dana White Explains Why Kimbo Slice Was Cut From The UFC |language=en-us |work=MMA News {{!}} UFC News, Results & Interviews |url=https://www.mmanews.com/news/dana-white-explains-why-kimbo-slice-was-cut-from-the-ufc |access-date=2023-10-13}}</ref> He was indeed subsequently released from his contract the following day, alongside welterweight [[Paul Daley]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2010/05/ufc-boss-confirms-hes-fired-kimbo-slice-and-welterweight-daley.html| title=UFC boss confirms he's 'fired' Kimbo Slice and welterweight Paul Daley| work=Los Angeles Times| author=Pugmire, Lance| date=May 9, 2009| access-date=June 4, 2010}}</ref> Slice ended his brief stint in the UFC with an Octagon record of 1-1 (1 KO loss), and an overall MMA record of 4–2.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-09-14 |title=Kimbo Slice {{!}} UFC |url=https://www.ufc.com/athlete/kimbo-slice |access-date=2023-08-22 |website=www.ufc.com |language=en}}</ref>

=== Retirement ===
Following his dismissal from the UFC, Slice became a free agent. [[MMA Junkie|MMA junkie]] reported that Mike Imber, Slice's manager, confirmed that he was considering all of his options in the free agency market, including mixed martial arts and newly opened boxing opportunities, but Imber declined to confirm or reveal any of them.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2010-05-25 |title=Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson mulling over offers; MMA and boxing on table |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2010/05/kevin-kimbo-slice-ferguson-mulling-over-offers-mma-and-boxing-on-table |access-date=2024-03-15 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}}</ref> It was soon revealed that Slice attempted to negotiate a contract with the promotion [[Strikeforce (mixed martial arts)|Strikeforce]], but could not agree to terms because of dispute over his fight pay.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sherdog.com |title=Strikeforce, 'Slice' Look to Next Fight |url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/Strikeforce-Slice-Look-to-Next-Fight-16146 |access-date=2024-03-15 |website=Sherdog |language=en}}</ref> However it was later stated that at time Strikeforce CEO was in no hurry to sign Slice following his release from the UFC.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shalik |first=Michael |date=2010-05-11 |title=Scott Coker In No Rush To Sign Paul Daley Or Kimbo Slice |url=https://www.mmanews.com/news/scott-coker-in-no-rush-to-sign-paul-daley-or-kimbo-slice |access-date=2024-03-15 |website=MMA News {{!}} UFC News, Results & Interviews |language=en-us}}</ref> In August 2010, Slice, aged 36, announced his retirement from MMA competition to pursue a career in professional boxing.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |last=Couturier |first=Jeremy |date=August 27, 2010 |title=Kimbo Slice Has Jumped to Boxing, Roy Jones Jr. Says He's Willing to Fight Him |url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2010/8/27/1653444/kimbo-slice-has-jumped-to-boxing |access-date=May 21, 2011 |publisher=Bloodyelbow.com}}</ref>

==Professional boxing career==
In August 2010, Slice announced his intention to become a professional boxer. He stated "I feel like a baby all over again. I'm thinking about this at night. I'm gonna be a problem in the [[heavyweight]] division. I'm going to be coming in with a bad demeanor. I want to see what it's like to break some ribs, break a jaw with one punch. This is a career move. I love fighting. I like to knock people the fuck out. I love engaging. Maybe some people think I'm crazy."<ref name=":0" />

=== Early career ===
Slice made his pro boxing debut on August 13, 2011. Slice fought in a four-round headlining attraction against 39-year-old James Wade (0–1) at the Buffalo Run Casino in [[Miami, Oklahoma]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Opponent Announced for 'Kimbo Slice' Boxing Debut |url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Opponent-Announced-for-Kimbo-Slice-Boxing-Debut-33993 |access-date=July 16, 2011}}</ref> He won the fight via KO at 0:10 in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |date=August 14, 2011 |title=UFC vet Kimbo Slice proves victorious in professional boxing debut |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2011/08/ufc-vet-kimbo-slice-proves-victorious-in-professional-boxing-debut-eyes-oct-15-return |access-date=August 14, 2011}}</ref>

On October 15, Slice returned to the boxing ring, defeating Tay Bledsoe (2–3) via KO in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |date=2011-09-09 |title=Boxing News: Kimbo Slice Returns to the Ring October 15th |url=http://ringsidereport.com/?p=15736 |access-date=2016-05-25 |publisher=Ringside Report}}</ref> On December 30, he defeated Charles Hackmann (0–1) by [[unanimous decision]], winning three out of four rounds,<ref>{{cite web |title=Kimbo Slice Wins! Now 3-0 in Boxing! &#124; CageJunkies - UFC and MMA News First |url=http://cagejunkies.com/2011/12/kimbo-slice-wins-now-3-0-in-boxing/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107212520/http://cagejunkies.com/2011/12/kimbo-slice-wins-now-3-0-in-boxing/ |archive-date=January 7, 2012 |access-date=December 31, 2011}}</ref> putting his record to 3-0 (2 KOs), to end off 2011.

=== 2012 ===
Slice had three fights in 2012. He defeated Jesse Porter (3–4)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Luke |date=2012-05-13 |title=Kimbo Slice Knocks Out Jesse Porter in Fifth Career Boxing Match |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2012/5/13/3018201/video-kimbo-slice-knocks-out-jesse-porter-fifth-boxing-match-news |access-date=2023-10-25 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}}</ref> and Howard Jones (5–4)<ref>{{Cite web |date=2012-10-08 |title=Kimbo Slice Knocked Out Some Dude This Weekend at an Oklahoma Casino [Video] |url=https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/kimbo-slice-knocked-out-some-dude-this-weekend-at-an-oklahoma-casino-video-01dxeje52c7r |access-date=2023-10-25 |website=The Big Lead |language=en-US}}</ref> both by first-round KO, but the more prominent came in the form of fellow Mixed martial artist, Brian Green (27–17).<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Holland |first=Jesse |date=2012-03-28 |title=Was Kimbo Slice's boxing match fixed? Brian Green says 'NO WAY' |url=https://www.mmamania.com/2012/3/28/2908578/kimbo-slice-boxing-match-fixed-brian-green-video |access-date=2023-10-25 |website=MMAmania.com |language=en}}</ref>

==== Slice vs Green ====
Slice fought Green in Missouri, and the bout nearly went the distance. Green took all four rounds on the cards, but in the closing seconds of the final round, Slice landed a left uppercut that dropped and knocked Green out, marking a mild upset.<ref name=":1" /> There was controversy and accusations the fight was a fixed and staged event, as Green admitted to wearing 20 pound ankle weights to fool the state commission, and was heavily ridiculed for it was believed he took a dive.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Al-Shatti |first=Shaun |date=2012-04-03 |title=Brian Green Vehemently Denies Taking Dive Against Kimbo Slice |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/news/2012/4/3/2923307/brian-green-vehemently-denies-taking-dive-vs-kimbo-slice-knockout-video |access-date=2023-10-25 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}}</ref>

=== 2013 ===

==== Slice vs Tilyard ====
Slice's next fight, the highest profile one of his career, was in Australia on the [[Anthony Mundine]] vs [[Daniel Geale]] undercard on January 30, 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=UFC star Kimbo Slice is on the undercard of the Daniel Geale-Anthony Mundine fight and will take on anyone |url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/boxing-mma/ufc-star-kimbo-slice-is-on-the-undercard-of-the-daniel-geale-anthony-mundine-fight-and-will-take-on-anyone/story-fndeeimb-1226535622733 |access-date=2016-05-25 |website=Dailytelegrpah.com.au}}</ref> He defeated Shane Tilyard (6–6), former 2x ANBF Queensland champion and IBF PP cruiser title challenger, by TKO in the second round.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kimbo pounds Tilyard in wild brawl |url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/boxing-mma/kimbo-pounds-tilyard-in-wild-brawl/story-fndn16fm-1226565471803 |access-date=2016-05-25 |website=Heraldsun.com.au}}</ref>

When he announced his intention to move from MMA to boxing, [[Roy Jones Jr.]] had said he would like to fight Slice, but that Slice would likely need a number of boxing matches beforehand in order to gain experience and exposure in the sport.<ref>{{cite web |title=Roy Jones Jr: "I might give it to Kimbo" |url=http://www.fighthype.com/pages/content8300.html |access-date=May 21, 2011 |publisher=Fighthype.com}}</ref> Despite Slice having amassing what would have been enough experience on paper, the fight never materialized. Additionally, it was heavily rumored, and Slice apparently was open to the event, that he and Eric "Butterbean" Esch were eying to get into the ring with each other,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-09-11 |title=Kimbo Slice hoping to box Butterbean |url=https://bloodyelbow.com/2013/09/11/kimbo-slice-vs-butterbean-boxing-rumor-eric-esch-tmz/ |access-date=2023-10-25 |website=Bloody Elbow |language=en}}</ref> with Butterbean having even called out Slice early on during his MMA career, having fought in MMA himself, in 2008.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BUTTERBEAN: "KIMBO DOESN'T WANT TO FIGHT ANYBODY THAT CAN KNOCK HIM OUT!"{{!}}{{!}} FIGHTHYPE.COM |url=http://www.fighthype.com/pages/content2263.html |access-date=2023-10-25 |website=www.fighthype.com}}</ref> This rumored bout also never materialized and Slice ended his stint in professional boxing a record of 7-0 (6 KOs).

== Return to MMA ==

===Return at Bellator MMA (2015-2016)===
In June 2014, it was reported that Bellator MMA was aiming to sign Slice.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Helwani |first=Ariel |date=2014-06-18 |title=Bellator reaches out to Slice, but no deal yet |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2014/6/18/5820324/bellator-reaches-out-to-kimbo-slice-but-no-deal-in-place-just-yet |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}}</ref> Slice ultimately remained inactive as a boxer and mixed martial artist in 2014, and did formally accept the offer and remained a [[free agent]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holland |first=Jesse |date=2014-06-18 |title=Say What? Bellator Wants A Slice Of Kimbo |url=https://www.mmamania.com/2014/6/18/5820962/kimbo-slice-turns-down-informal-offer-from-bellator-mma-for-now |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=MMAmania.com |language=en}}</ref>

On January 16, 2015, nearly five years since his retirement and more than two years of absence from combat sports, [[Bellator MMA]] announced that Slice had signed a multi-fight deal.<ref name="bellator"/> He defeated [[Ken Shamrock]] by first-round TKO in his June 19 debut at [[Bellator 138]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Kimbo-SliceKen-Shamrock-to-Headline-Bellator-Unfinished-Business-on-June-20-82505|title=Kimbo Slice Ken Shamrock to Headline Bellator Unfinished Business on June 20|website=Sherdog.com|access-date=2016-05-25}}</ref> Some observers noted the fight appeared to be fixed, like a professional wrestling match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://fightland.vice.com/blog/kimbo-slice-versus-ken-shamrock-anatomy-of-a-fixed-fight|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150625073039/http://fightland.vice.com/blog/kimbo-slice-versus-ken-shamrock-anatomy-of-a-fixed-fight/|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 25, 2015|title=Kimbo Slice versus Ken Shamrock: Anatomy of a Fixed Fight - FIGHTLAND}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2015/6/22/8822267/morning-report-ufc-joe-rogan-ken-shamrock-kimbo-slice-mcgregor-aldo-rousey-mma-news|title=Morning Report: Rogan talks Kimbo vs. Shamrock|date=June 22, 2015}}</ref> Bellator commentator Jimmy Smith credited the fight looking as it did to Shamrock's lack of technique and durability, and said if it was fixed, Bellator wasn't in on the deal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2015/6/22/8825303/jimmy-smith-responds-kimbo-slice-vs-ken-shamrock-fixed-bellator-didnt-know-mma|title=C'mon Guys, Does This Look Fixed To You?!?|date=June 22, 2015}}</ref>

==== Fight with Dhafir Harris ====
On February 19, 2016, at [[Bellator MMA in 2016#Bellator 149: Shamrock vs. Gracie|Bellator 149]], Slice faced [[Dada 5000]]. The duo had a big rivalry between them due to their old [[Street fighting|street fight]] legacies they had in [[Perrine, Florida]]. In the first round, both fighters gassed out almost immediately, and Slice went on to win an uneventful fight via TKO when Dada collapsed from apparent exhaustion in the third round.<ref name="dada5000">{{cite news | url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/14809139/kimbo-slice-knocks-rival-dada-5000-bellator-149 | title=Kimbo Slice scores exhausted TKO at Bellator 149 | work=ESPN | date=20 February 2016 | access-date=20 February 2016 | author=Okamoto, Brett}}</ref> Following the bout it was reported that Slice had failed his pre-fight drug test. Lab results found traces of the anabolic steroid [[nandrolone]]. He was also found to have an elevated [[testosterone (medication)|testosterone]]/[[epitestosterone]] (T/E) ratio of 6.4:1, which is above the maximum allowed limit of 4:1. On May 2, 2016, it was revealed that Slice had settled with the Texas Athletic Commission with a fine of $2,500 and a revoking of his license in the state of Texas. The result of the bout has also been changed to a [[no contest (combat sports)|no contest]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Marrocco |first= Steven |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/05/bellators-kimbo-slice-settles-with-texas-commission-following-failed-steroid-test |title=Bellator's 'Kimbo Slice' settles with Texas commission following failed steroid test |publisher=MMAjunkie.com |date=May 2, 2016 |access-date=May 2, 2016}}</ref> Despite being widely panned by critics, the fight attracted approximately 2.5 million viewing households, breaking the Bellator record of 2.4 million, set by Kimbo vs Shamrock.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2016/2/23/11099616/ratings-bellator-149-peaked-at-2-7-million-viewers-ufc-fails-to-average-1-million-mma-news|title=Bellator 149 peaked at 2.7 million viewers|date=February 23, 2016 }}</ref>

In April 2016, Bellator President [[Scott Coker]] announced on ESPN's [[SportsCenter]] that Slice would have a rematch against James Thompson in the main event of [[Bellator 158]], which would take place on July 16, 2016, at London's [[O2 Arena (London)|O2 Arena]].<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/15225373/kimbo-slice-james-thompson-co-headline-bellator-event-london-july-16 | title=Kimbo Slice-James Thompson II booked for July 16 in London | work=ESPN | date=April 18, 2016 | access-date=June 7, 2016 | author=Okamoto, Brett}}</ref> Slice died of [[heart failure]] before this fight could happen.

==Professional wrestling==
After departing from the UFC and announcing his intent to enter other aspects of combat sports, Slice was to make his debut in [[professional wrestling]] on February 5, 2011, against former [[sumo]] wrestler [[Shinichi Suzukawa]] at the [[Inoki Genome Federation]]'s "Genome 14" event in [[Fukuoka]], [[Japan]];<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/Kimbo-Slice-to-Make-Pro-Wrestling-Debut-on-Feb-5-29494 |title=Kimbo Slice to Make Pro-Wrestling Debut on Feb. 5 |publisher=Sherdog.com |date=January 18, 2011 |access-date=May 21, 2011}}</ref> he pulled out of the match due to getting injured during practice.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/article/kimbo-slice-pulls-out-of-wrestling-debut-austin-meets-w-wwe-122777|title=Kimbo Slice Pulls Out of Wrestling Debut|access-date=February 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205062205/http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/article/kimbo-slice-pulls-out-of-wrestling-debut-austin-meets-w-wwe-122777|archive-date=February 5, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Other media coverage==
A series called "Junk Yard Training" was released on yardbarker.com and YouTube.com that featured [[LaDainian Tomlinson]], running back for the [[Los Angeles Chargers|San Diego Chargers]], training in Kimbo's backyard. In 2009, Kimbo starred in an [[antivirus software]] advertisement called ''Caterpillar vs. Kimbo''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://everyclickmatters.com/dangers/kimbo.html |title=NORTON™ - Antivirus Software and Spyware Removal |website=Everyclickmatters.com |access-date=2016-05-25}}</ref>

Slice was featured on ''The Iron Ring'', a television series airing on [[Black Entertainment Television|BET]] that features MMA prospects. Slice was part of the selection process for the participants.<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.thefightnetwork.com/news_detail.php?nid=3435
|first=Loretta
|last=Hunt
|title=AM Update&nbsp;March 16
|date=March 16, 2007
|access-date=March 21, 2007
|publisher=The Fight Network
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070323114529/http://www.thefightnetwork.com/news_detail.php?nid=3435 <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = March 23, 2007}}</ref> He made his official acting debut when playing the character Bludge on [[Nickelodeon (TV network)|Nickelodeon]]'s 2008 holiday special, ''[[Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh]]''. He also played an inmate named JC in 2009's fighting film ''[[Blood and Bone]]''.

==Personal life==
In May 1994, Ferguson married L. Shontae, the mother of his children RaeChelle, Kevin II, and Kevinah. From this union, there are also three grandsons named Kevin III, Akieno, and Kimbo-Legacy, as well as one granddaughter named Isis.<ref name="mia">Linda, Robertson (February 10, 2008). There is another side to Kimbo Slice [https://web.archive.org/web/20081123103610/http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/columnists/linda-robertson//story/709783.html Archived] from [http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/columnists/linda-robertson//story/709783.html the original] on February 7, 2014.</ref><ref>Kimbo Slice vs. Seth Petruzelli - Pre-Match Video</ref> Kevin Jr. is also a mixed martial artist. Slice also had a son named Kevlar and a daughter named Kassandra. He also had two stepdaughters named Rae'Chelle (by his first wife) and Kiara. Before he died, he enjoyed spending time with two of his grandsons, K3 and JuJu (Akieno). Kimbo-Legacy and Isis were both born after Slice's death.<ref name="jim" /><ref name="mia"/><ref>{{cite web|last1=Cleary|first1=Tom|title=Kevin Ferguson Jr., Kimbo Slice's Son: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know|url=http://heavy.com/sports/2016/06/kimbo-slice-son-kevin-ferguson-jr-baby-slice-mma-fighter-photos-video-death/|website=Heavy.com|access-date=November 10, 2017|date=7 June 2016}}</ref> At the time of his death, he was engaged to his long-time girlfriend.<ref>{{cite web|author=Alicia Doyle|url=http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2008/may/10/no-headline---sc2fcslice10oth-fc/|title=Outside the fight world, Ferguson was a soft-spoken father of seven children — four girls and three boys — who was engaged to his Girlfriend Antoinette|publisher=Venturacountystar.com|access-date=May 21, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090710012804/http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2008/May/10/no-headline---sc2fcslice10oth-fc/|archive-date=July 10, 2009|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

==Death==
On June 3, 2016, Slice was admitted to a hospital in [[Margate, Florida]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Brennan|first1=Christopher|title=Mixed martial arts fighter Kimbo Slice dies at 42|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/more-sports/mma-fighter-kimbo-slice-hospital-report-article-1.2663701|website=New York Daily News|date=June 7, 2016 |access-date=7 June 2016}}</ref> He died of [[congestive heart failure]] on June 6 at the age of 42.<ref name="ESPN_7Jun16"/> An autopsy also revealed a [[Neoplasm|mass]] on his liver.<ref>{{cite web|title=Kimbo Slice died of heart failure|url=http://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/kimbo-slice-died-of-heart-failure-needed-heart-transplant-before-death/|website=CBS Sports|date=June 7, 2016}}</ref>

[[Scott Coker]], CEO of Bellator MMA, said, "We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating and untimely loss of Kimbo Slice, a beloved member of the Bellator family."<ref>{{cite web|author=Scott Coker|url=http://bellator.spike.com/articles/z1qo4r/scott-coker-statement-on-the-passing-of-kimbo-slice |title=Scott Coker Statement on the Passing of Kimbo Slice |publisher=bellator.spike.com |access-date=June 6, 2016}}</ref> Dada, despite their rivalry and remembering the one-time friendship, paid tribute to his fallen adversary on the Instagram social media page, citing him as a somebody who "Showed the world that a guy from the back yard circuit can make it in professional sports and do the impossible".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lee |first=Alexander K. |date=2016-06-08 |title=Dada 5000 pays tribute to Kimbo Slice in Instagram post |url=https://www.thescore.com/mma/news/1040388 |access-date=2023-08-01 |website=theScore.com |language=en}}</ref>

== Legacy ==
Slice is regarded by many to be a legendary figure in the sport of [[Mixed martial arts]].<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-06-07 |title=Legendary MMA Fighter Kimbo Slice Dies At Age 42 - CBS New York |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/kimbo-slice-dies/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=www.cbsnews.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Cortes |first=Ryan |date=2016-06-07 |title=The legend of Kimbo Slice |url=https://andscape.com/features/the-legend-of-kimbo-slice/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=Andscape |language=en-US}}</ref> He set a [[Spike TV]] record, that stood during its fifteen years of operation, by participating in ''[[The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights]]''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2009-10-04 |title="Kimbo Slice" vs. Roy Nelson earns Spike TV record 6.1 million viewers for "TUF 10" {{!}} MMAjunkie.com |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/16367/kimbo-slice-vs-roy-nelson-earns-spike-tv-record-6-1-million-viewers-for-tuf-10.mma |access-date=2024-05-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091004234954/http://mmajunkie.com/news/16367/kimbo-slice-vs-roy-nelson-earns-spike-tv-record-6-1-million-viewers-for-tuf-10.mma |archive-date=October 4, 2009 }}</ref> bringing a viewing of more than 6.1 million views on the episode where he fought and was eliminated early on by the tournament winner Roy Nelson in the opening round,<ref>{{Cite web |title="The Ultimate Fighter" Draws 6.1 Million Viewers - MMARising.com |url=https://www.mmarising.com/news/2009/09/3001.html |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=www.mmarising.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kimbo Slice's TUF debut draws record ratings |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/more/slice-tuf/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=www.sportsnet.ca |language=en}}</ref> trumping any other UFC content aired on the broadcasting.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sherdog.com |title=Nelson-Slice Nabs 6.1 Million Viewers |url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/NelsonSlice-Nabs-61-Million-Viewers-20073 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=Sherdog |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Brookhouse |first=Brent |date=2009-10-01 |title=Kimbo Slice vs. Roy Nelson Tops 6 Million Viewers |url=https://www.sbnation.com/2009/10/1/2311415/kimbo-slice-vs-roy-nelson-tops-6-million-viewers |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=SBNation.com |language=en}}</ref>

The UFC promotion released a statement following Slice's passing: "is saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Ferguson, known to fans around the world as Kimbo Slice" for his time with the organization on the TUF 10 season and his fights in the Octagon. It was reflected that he "carried himself as a true professional" during his time in the organization, and condolences were offered Slice's friends and surviving kin.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-09-14 |title=UFC statement on passing of Kimbo Slice {{!}} UFC |url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ufc-statement-passing-kimbo-slice |access-date=2025-06-14 |website=www.ufc.com |language=en}}</ref>

==Professional boxing record==
{{BoxingRecordSummary
|ko-wins=6
|dec-wins=1
}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
!{{abbr|No.|Number}}
!Result
!Record
!Opponent
!Type
!Round, time
!Date
!Location
!Notes
|-
|7
|{{yes2}}Win
|7–0
|align=left|Shane Tilyard
|KO
|2 (4), {{small|2:09}}
|30 Jan 2013
|align=left|{{small|[[Sydney Entertainment Centre|Entertainment Centre]], [[Sydney]], Australia}}
|
|-
|6
|{{yes2}}Win
|6–0
|align=left|Howard Jones
|KO
|1 (4), {{small|0:57}}
|6 Oct 2012
|align=left|{{small|Buffalo Run Casino, Miami, Oklahoma, U.S.}}
|
|-
|5
|{{yes2}}Win
|5–0
|align=left|Jesse Porter
|KO
|1 (4), {{small|0:36}}
|12 May 2012
|align=left|{{small|Lucky Star Casino, [[Concho, Oklahoma]], U.S.}}
|
|-
|4
|{{yes2}}Win
|4–0
|align=left|Brian Green
|KO
|4 (4), {{small|2:57}}
|24 Mar 2012
|align=left|{{small|[[O'Reilly Family Event Center]], [[Springfield, Missouri]], U.S.}}
|
|-
|3
|{{yes2}}Win
|3–0
|align=left|Charles Hackmann
|{{abbr|UD|Unanimous decision}}
|4
|30 Dec 2011
|align=left|{{small|Buffalo Run Casino, Miami, Oklahoma, U.S.}}
|
|-
|2
|{{yes2}}Win
|2–0
|align=left|Tay Bledsoe
|KO
|1 (4), {{small|2:17}}
|15 Oct 2011
|align=left|{{small|Heartland Events Center, [[Grand Island, Nebraska]], U.S.}}
|
|-
|1
|{{yes2}}Win
|1–0
|align=left|James Wade
|{{abbr|KO|Knockout}}
|1 (4), {{small|0:17}}
|13 Aug 2011
|align=left|{{small|Buffalo Run Casino, [[Miami, Oklahoma]], U.S.}}
|
|}

==Championships and accomplishments==
*'''[[Ultimate Fighting Championship]]'''
**'''UFC.com Awards'''
***2009: [[2009 in UFC#2009 UFC.com awards|Ranked #10 Newcomer of the Year]] {{small|(Tied with [[Yoshihiro Akiyama]] & [[Todd Duffee]])}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-newcomers-2009|title=Ten Best – The Newcomers of 2009|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=December 18, 2009|work=[[Ultimate Fighting Championship]]}}</ref> & [[2009 in UFC#2009 UFC.com awards|Ranked #9 Upset of the Year]] {{small|vs. [[Houston Alexander]]}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-upsets-2009|title=Ten Best – The Upsets of 2009|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=December 18, 2009|work=[[Ultimate Fighting Championship]]}}</ref>

==Mixed martial arts record==

=== Professional ===
{{MMArecordbox
|draws=
|nc=1
|ko-wins=4
|ko-losses=2
|sub-wins=
|sub-losses=
|dec-wins=1
|dec-losses=
|dq-wins=
|dq-losses=
|other-wins=
|other-losses=
}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|{{draw}}NC
|align=center|{{nowrap|5–2 (1)}}
|[[Dada 5000]]
|NC (overturned)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Kevin-Ferguson-22388 |title=Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson Professional MMA Record |publisher=Sherdog.com |access-date=February 21, 2016}}</ref>
|[[Bellator 149]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2016|February|19}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|1:32
|[[Houston, Texas]], United States
|{{small|Originally a TKO win for Slice; overturned after he tested positive for [[nandrolone]] and elevated [[Epitestosterone#Epitestosterone and testosterone|T/E ratio]].}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|5–2
|[[Ken Shamrock]]
|TKO (punches)
|[[Bellator 138]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2015|June|19}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|2:22
|[[St. Louis, Missouri]], United States
|{{small|Catchweight bout (232 lbs).}}
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|align=center|4–2
|[[Matt Mitrione]]
|TKO (punches)
|[[UFC 113]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2010|May|8}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|4:24
|[[Montreal]], [[Quebec]], Canada
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|4–1
|[[Houston Alexander]]
|Decision (unanimous)
|[[The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights Finale]] 
|{{dts|format=mdy|2009|December|5}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|[[Las Vegas, Nevada]], United States
|{{small|Catchweight bout (215 lbs).}}
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|align=center|3–1
|[[Seth Petruzelli]]
|TKO (punches)
|[[EliteXC: Heat]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2008|October|4}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|0:14
|[[Sunrise, Florida]], United States
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|3–0
|[[James Thompson (fighter)|James Thompson]]
|TKO (punches)
|[[EliteXC: Primetime]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2008|May|31}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|0:38
|[[Newark, New Jersey]], United States
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|2–0
|[[Tank Abbott]]
|KO (punches)
|[[EliteXC: Street Certified]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2008|February|16}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|0:43
|[[Miami, Florida]], United States
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|1–0
|Bo Cantrell
|TKO (submission to punches)
|[[EliteXC: Renegade]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2007|November|10}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|0:19
|[[Corpus Christi, Texas]], United States
|
{{end}}

===Exhibition===
{{MMArecordbox
|draws=
|nc=
|ko-wins=
|ko-losses=1
|sub-wins=1
|sub-losses=
|dec-wins=
|dec-losses=
|dq-wins=
|dq-losses=
|other-wins=
|other-losses=
}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|align=center|1–1
|[[Roy Nelson (fighter)|Roy Nelson]]
|TKO (punches)
|[[The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights]]
|{{dts|format=mdy|2009|June|10}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|2:01
|[[Las Vegas, Nevada]], United States
|{{small|[[The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights]] Preliminary round.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|1–0
|[[Ray Mercer]]
|Submission (guillotine choke)
|[[Cage Fury Fighting Championship 5#Cage Fury Fighting Championships V|Cage Fury Fighting Championships V]]{{Broken anchor|date=2025-05-08|bot=User:Cewbot/log/20201008/configuration|target_link=Cage Fury Fighting Championship 5#Cage Fury Fighting Championships V|reason= The anchor (Cage Fury Fighting Championships V) [[Special:Diff/713773465|has been deleted]].|diff_id=713773465}}
|{{dts|format=mdy|2007|June|23}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|1:12
|[[Atlantic City, New Jersey]], United States
|
{{end}}

==Filmography==
{| class="wikitable"
|- style="background:#b0c4de;"
! Year
! Title
! Film/Television
! Role
|-
| align=center | 2008
| ''[[Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh]]''
| Television
| Bludge
|-
| align=center | 2009
| ''[[Blood and Bone]]''
| Film
| J.C.
|-
| align=center | 2010
| ''Locked Down''
| Film
| King
|-
| align=center | 2010
| ''Circle of Pain''
| Film
| Reg
|-
| align=center | 2012
| ''[[The Scorpion King 3: Battle for Redemption]]''
| Film
| Zulu Kondo
|-
| align=center | 2015
| ''[[Dawg Fight]]''
| Film 
| Himself, Boxer
|-
|}

==See also==

* [[List of male mixed martial artists]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* {{IMDb name}}
* {{UFC}}
* {{BoxRec}}
* {{Sherdog}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Slice, Kimbo}}
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