Opponent Announced for ‘Kimbo Slice’ Boxing Debut

Better known as “Kimbo Slice,” Ferguson (Pictured; file photo) will square off with James Wade -- a 0-1 pro from Springfield, Mo. -- in a four-round heavyweight headline on Aug. 13. Emanating from the Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla., the event is a co-promotion between Gary Shaw Productions and Tony Holden Promotions.

Ferguson, 37, made a name for himself fighting in several backyard bare-knuckle fights that gained massive popularity over the Internet. After signing with the now-defunct EliteXC promotion, which was run by Shaw, Ferguson rattled off three straight wins before being knocked out in 2008 by heavy underdog Seth Petruzelli in just 14 seconds.

The Floridian then joined the cast of “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 10, setting all-time ratings highs for the Spike TV series, even as he lost in the first round of the competition to eventual winner Roy Nelson. Ferguson participated in two official UFC contests after his time on the show, edging out Houston Alexander in a lackluster three-rounder in 2009 before falling by technical knockout to Matt Mitrione the following year. Ferguson was released by the promotion following his loss to Mitrione and has not fought since.