In November 2022, the UFC community mourned the death of a 38 year old fighter who went by the name “Rumble.” His real name was Anthony Johnson, and his cause of death has not been disclosed. It was reportedly related to an undisclosed illness.
Johnson’s death was first announced on Twitter by Bellator MMA. The post reads, “It is with great sadness we acknowledge the passing of Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson. The BELLATOR family is devastated by his untimely passing and we send our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
🙏 It is with great sadness we acknowledge the passing of Anthony “Rumble” Johnson. The BELLATOR family is devastated by his untimely passing and we send our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/TqZzN1wquY
— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) November 13, 2022
On Johnson’s Instagram account, Johnson’s social media manager shared a picture of Johnson along with his year of birth and year of death. In the caption, his social media manager explained that fans or anyone who feels like sending flowers should instead donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or New York Bully Crew. The post explained that Johnson “loved kids and animals.  Anthony has spent the better part of his adult life loving and advocating for dogs – in particular, bully breeds.  Much like him, they are tough on the outside and loving, quirky and funny on the inside.” The post explains that New York Bully Crew (NYBC) is “dedicated to saving the abandoned, abused, medically fragile and dire while spreading awareness on the unsurpassed love and loyalty of the often misunderstood bully breeds.”
Â
View this post on InstagramÂ
In 2007, Johnson first joined the UFC. In 2014, he was ranked the number one light heavyweight contender. Then in 2017, he announced his retirement, but his retirement was short lived. In 2021, Johnson joined Bellator MMA.
Rest in peace.
