The sports world took another major blow after news spread that notable MMA fighter Kimbo Slice passed away. Slice, whose real name was Kevin Ferguson, was taken to a hospital in Coral Springs, Florida, where he died on Monday. Ferguson made his MMA debut back in 2007 after gaining notoriety as a street fighter. Bellator, a mixed martial arts promotion company, released a statement about his death on Monday evening. “We are all shocked and saddened by the devastating and untimely loss of Kimbo Slice, a beloved member of the Bellator family. One of the most popular MMA fighters ever, Kimbo was a charismatic, larger-than-life personality that transcended the sport,” said Bellator president Scott Coker. “Outside of the cage he was a friendly, gentle giant and a devoted family man. His loss leaves us all with extremely heavy hearts, and our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Ferguson family and all of Kimbo’s friends, fans, and teammates.” The cause of Ferguson’s death remains unknown. Read more.
Broncos Wide Receiver Thanks President Obama For Pardoning His Mom
During a visit to the White House on Monday, Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas expressed gratitude toward President Obama for pardoning his mother. In July 2015, he commuted the sentences of 46 nonviolent drug offenders from federal prison. One of the individuals who had their sentence waived was Thomas’ mother, Katina Smith. Smith was sentenced in 2000 for being tied to a cocaine ring and was slated to serve up to 20 years in prison. “I talked to him for a quick second. I told him, ‘Thank you for helping my family,’ ” said Thomas. “We talked about my mother and we also talked about my grandmother.” His grandmother is currently serving two life sentences behind bars after she was found guilty of drug trafficking. Read more.
Whitney Houston’s Wedding Dress To Be Put Up For Auction
Personal belongings of legendary late songstress Whitney Houston have been put up for auction. One of the items is her Marc Bouwer wedding gown that she wore when she tied the knot with Bobby Brown. The satin gown, which features a high neck, a beaded bodice, and sheer sleeves, will reportedly have a starting price of $3,500. When Houston purchased the dress, it was worth $40,000. Other items that are up for auction include her passport and driver’s license, awards she received, outfits from her tour, and her script from the film Waiting to Exhale. The items will be sold on the Heritage Auctions website. Read more.
Judge Implements Deadline For Prince’s Estate Claims
After several people have come forward claiming that they are related to the late singer Prince for a piece of his estate, a Minnesota judge has decided to implement a deadline for individuals to file their claims. District Judge Kevin W. Eide demanded that anyone who wants to file a claim for Prince’s estate must do so by June 10. Prince’s sister Tyka Nelson and his other half-siblings have gone through the process to claim his estate. All of the claims will be looked over by a special administrator who will decide if DNA testing should be conducted. Prince’s estate is reportedly worth $27 million. Read more.
Marsha Cooke Appointed To Vice President, News Services For CBS News
News journalist Marsha Cooke has been appointed to Vice President, News Services for CBS News. Cooke, who has won an Emmy for her work in journalism, will replace Kurt Davis. She joined CBS News in 1993. Over the span of her career she has served as a Senior Broadcast Producer for the CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley, and Executive Editor of Content at CBSN. In her new role she will oversee Newspath, a satellite news organization that delivers stories to platforms under the CBS umbrella. “Newspath needs to be the most competitive affiliate newsfeed, maintain excellent client relationships, and look for digital opportunities wherever possible,” said CBS News President David Rhodes in a statement. “Marsha’s career as a manager from Beijing to the broadcast center – and her recent experience at CBSNmake her the ideal colleague to continue these priorities as an executive.” Read more.
VIDEO SOURCE: Inform
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