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MMA world reacts to death of 'Rumble' Johnson

Former UFC fighter Anthony "Rumble" Johnson. Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

MMA world reacts to untimely death of Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 11/13/22

Anthony "Rumble" Johnson, a legendary knockout artist and one of MMA's most entertaining figures, has passed away.

According to insider Ariel Helwani, who broke the unfortunate news, Johnson had recently been dealing with an unspecified illness; he was 38.

Horrible news:

Anthony “Rumble” Johnson passed away today. He was 38 years old.

Johnson had been battling an illness for quite some time.

One of the hardest hitters and most talented fighters in MMA history. Gone way too soon.

May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/t5mVvRaNih
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) November 13, 2022

Johnson fought both in the UFC and Bellator, amassing a career mark of 23-6, with 17 wins coming by way of knockout.

As word broke of Johnson's death, many took to social media to share their condolences, including Daniel Cormier, one of only two fighters (Kevin Burns) that Johnson fought twice during his career.

"For a guy who struck fear in so many people's heart Anthony Johnson was a caring person," Cormier tweeted.

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 #RIP #Rumblesquad @Anthony_Rumble pic.twitter.com/HH2SO1dPj7
— Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) November 13, 2022

Johnson faced off against Cormier in his final fight for the UFC in 2017 before returning for one more bout at Bellator 258 against Jose Augusto Azevedo Barros in 2021, which he won fittingly by KO.

Along with Cormier, others from the world of MMA also posted heartfelt messages after the announcement of Johnson's untimely passing.

RIP Anthony “Rumble” Johnson. One of the most prolific KO artists our sport has ever seen. My prayers go out to his family and everyone affected by this tragedy. https://t.co/TYAu2wxn2u
— Michael Chiesa (@MikeMav22) November 13, 2022

RIP Anthony Johnson. Tragic.
— Marc Goddard (@marcgoddard_uk) November 13, 2022

Despite being aware of his illness, it's still hard to process his passing.

'Rumble' Johnson was kind & warm out of the cage but inside those walls he was cold.

Thankful I witnessed both.

I hope his family & friends are surrounded by love during this incredibly sad time.
— Adam Catterall (@AdamCatterall) November 13, 2022

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
— BellatorMMA (@BellatorMMA) November 13, 2022

Rumble Johnson passed away the MMA community lost a legend and I will continue to pray for his family
— Terrance' T Wrecks' McKinney (@twrecks155) November 13, 2022

Just saw Anthony Johnson has passed away, what an absolute gentleman, had the pleasure of being in the red corner all week at UFC Sweden with him, serious craic, Funny guy taken way too soon..

R.I.P my friend. pic.twitter.com/Y8ai4kNmur
— Paul Redmond (@RedserMma) November 13, 2022

Heart breaking to learn of the tragic news that Anthony Rumble Johnson has passed away. I have a poster of him by my desk looking powerful. My thoughtS and prayers are with his family and friends RIP
— John Gooden (@JohnGoodenUK) November 13, 2022

Beyond saddened to hear the news that Anthony Johnson has passed away age 38. I had the pleasure of interviewing Rumble a few times and loved his energy. One of the most devasting finishers our sport has seen. RIP @Anthony_Rumble pic.twitter.com/qZmhiGODLk
— Caroline Pearce (@CarolinePearce) November 13, 2022

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