CNN
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American lightweight MMA fighter Anthony “Rumble” Johnson has died at the age of 38 from an undisclosed illness, according to Bellator MMA.
“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson, Bellator MMA has announced social media on Sunday.
“The BELLATOR family is devastated by his untimely passing and we extend our condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Johnson joined the UFC in 2007 and was ranked the number one light heavyweight contender in 2014 before retiring in 2017.
After four years away from mixed martial arts, Johnson has come out of retirement and joined Bellator MMA in 2021.
In his final fight, Johnson defeated José Augusto by knockout to improve to 23-6 in his career.
Daniel Cormier, two-time Olympian and MMA fighter, paid tribute to Johnson.
“For a guy who instilled fear in so many people’s hearts, Anthony Johnson was a thoughtful person. From the casual text to the check-ins during the loss. What a person he was, Rumble will be missed. Sometimes life just doesn’t feel right Horrible news,” Cormier added.
