Former UFC legend Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson has died at 38. Here’s all we know about the cause of death, his biography and reactions from his fans and peers.
Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson dies: What’s the cause of death?
The 38-year-old former mixed martial arts (MMA) veteran, renowned across the extreme sport as the knockout specialist, died of an unknown illness, per Express.
While specific details on the illness are not known at this stage, it’s widely believed Rumble may have succumbed to an unknown diagnosis that stopped his return to the octagon in September 2021.
At the time, Johnson was due for a much-anticipated return to compete for the Bellator 268 light-heavyweight title against champion Vadim Nemkov. However, in the 11th hour, Rumble was forced to pull out due to an illness.
The UFC legend later surfaced on social media with a statement addressing rumours about the illness.
“Really wish I could go into detail about how ill I truly am. 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,” he wrote at the time.
Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson’s cause of death has yet to be revealed.
The 38-year-old is survived by his sister, Nanyamka PJ Johnson, who posted this tribute following the news of the UFC legend’s death:
“I lost half my heart yesterday.. For the life of me I can’t understand why.. I know, but I don’t understand. I appreciate all the calls and texts, but please give me a day or so to process I promise I will get back with yall. (sic)”
Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson biography
Anthony Kewoa Johnson was born on 6 March 1984 in Dublin, Georgia, US.
According to his Wikipedia page, Johnson grew up idolizing male figures in his life, such as his grandfather and NFL legend Walter Payton.
Johnson attended West Laurens High School and later Lassen College in Susanville, California, on a wrestling scholarship where he thrived.
Johnson’s earliest encounter with MMA came at the age of 20 when a friend suggested the sport to him during his stint as a nightclub bouncer.
Immediately after joining an MMA gym in 2007, Johnson received a call to face Chad Reiner at UFC Fight Night 10 less than a week before the event.
Consequently, the Dublin native earned his place in UFC history, as well as the nickname, Rumble, after he knocked out Reiner within 13 seconds of the first round.
That sensational win marked the beginning of a prolific career in the UFC for Johnson, who, in 29 MMA matches, has scored 23 wins, a whopping 17 by TKO and a measly six losses.
Johnson’s turbulent career in the UFC came to an end in December 2020 when he left the division to join Bellator MMA’s light heavyweight division. His first close encounter with a championship title was undone by the illness he ultimately succumbed to.
No information exists on Johnson’s personal life, such as a romantic partner or children.
Reactions to the death of Rumble
The death of Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson rocked the UFC world. Here’s how the 38-year-old’s fans and peers reacted to the news of his untimely passing:
