Kimbo is now an athlete with faith in God. Photo: Josh Hedges

Kevin Ferguson, better known as Kimbo Slice, prefers to stay out of the media spotlight. However, when he speaks, he projects a different image from the one that made his reputation on the internet, when he would brawl on the streets of Miami. In NOCAUTE magazine # 85, now on newsstands across Brazil, the UFC fighter recalls his impoverished childhood when he even spent time living with  his family in a car in the aftermath of a hurricane. Check out the following snippet from the conversation Kimbo had with GRACIEMAG collaborator Nalty Jr.

When you fought in the streets, did you think of fighting professionally?

No. I never thought about it while fighting in the streets. I started fighting to make money. We live in a world where there is a system to follow. Everyone has to make money and find a way to survive. Street fighting was my livelihood.

You showed technical improvement against Houston Alexander. How is work at the ATT going?

For me it’s a learning experience, since there are many big fish, some sharks and some whales. I’m just a little Nemo fish swimming with sharks of the UFC. I know I have a long way to go, but it’s a matter of time and I will improve my technique.

Who is the greatest fighter of all time?

I’m a fight fan. As I box, I have to give credit to my favorite: Mike Tyson. And the best MMA fighter I have to say is Anderson Silva. Anderson is certainly the best and most complete fighter in the UFC. He’s untouchable.

Check out this Kimbo fight, while still at EliteXC, against another street tough, Tank Abbott.