Former UFC light-heavyweight title contender Anthony "Rumble" Johnson passed away at the age of 38 after a protracted battle with an unidentified disease.
Due to a health problem that had persisted for the previous 12 months, the former fighter withdrew from the Bellator light-heavyweight title battle in September of last year.
The American, who joined Bellator last year, described his illness in a social media post, writing: "I wish I could explain in more detail how terrible I actually am. Just know that your prayers would be greatly appreciated, and if God wills, I'll see you in 2022. I've never felt this terrified in my life, but with the support of my friends and family, I've been able to persevere.
Before it was revealed last night that the fighter had succumbed to his sickness, his manager Ali Abdelaziz had asked fans to "pray" for him last month.
"He's now having some health problems, Rumble. In an interview with ESPN from October, Abdelaziz voiced his sadness." I feel compelled to beg for everyone's prayers for him. Pray for Anthony. Not at all well. He has a solid spiritual base. But do pray for him.
Bellator confirmed his defeat in a statement on Sunday, November 13 and stated: "We acknowledge the loss of Anthony "Rumble" Johnson with deep sorrow.
The Bellator family was shocked by his unexpected loss, and we extend our condolences to his friends and family at this difficult time.
Johnson competed in the UFC at the welterweight, middleweight, and light heavyweight weight classes and was one of the most feared punchers in the sport. He was 3-0 and beat Chad Reiner in just 13 seconds when he made his UFC debut on June 12, 2007, in Hollywood, Florida.
He knocked out the opposition in 17 of his 23 MMA matches, and despite packing on a lot of weight throughout his career, he never lost his strength. He was defeated by rear naked choke both times in his two efforts to capture the UFC light heavyweight title by Daniel Cormier. Johnson initially lost to Cormier at UFC 187 on May 23, 2015, for the title that had been taken away from Jon Jones.
