‘Rumble will be missed’ – former UFC title challenger Anthony Johnson dies, aged 38 as tributes pour in for popular fighter with Daniel Cormier leading them
Tributes have been pouring in for former UFC light-heavyweight contender Anthony Johnson, who has died at the age of 38.
Known as 'Rumble', he had recently been competing under the Bellator banner, with the MMA promotion announcing the news on Sunday.
"It is with great sadness we acknowledge the passing of Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson," a statement read.
"The BELLATOR family is devastated by his untimely passing and we send our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time."
Johnson's last fight was a win in May 2021, but in September that year he revealed he was suffering from an unspecified illness, writing on social media: “Really wish I could go into detail about how ill I truly am," he said.
"Just know I need as many prayers as I can get and I’ll see you in 2022 God willing. Never been this afraid of anything in my life but I’ve remained strong with the support of friends and family.”
Last month, his manager, Ali Abdelaziz said he was struggling. “Rumble, he’s going through some health problems right now. It’s very sad,” he told .
“I think, I want everybody to pray for him. Pray for Anthony. It’s not going well. He’s very strong, spiritually. But pray for him.”
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Johnson’s professional MMA record was 23-6 with 17 wins coming by KO/TKO. His last fight with the UFC was a loss to Daniel Cormier in 2017.
Reacting to the news, Cormier wrote on Twitter: "Rest Easy my brother. For a guy who struck fear in so many peoples heart Anthony Johnson was a caring person. From random text to check ins during loss. What a person he was, Rumble will be missed. Sometimes life doesn’t seem fair. Horrible news."