“You Did So Much”: Ex-Heavyweight Champ and Fans Mourn the Death of Jim Brown, NFL Great and UFC’s First African-American Commentator

The MMA world mourns the loss of Jim Brown; the first African-American commentator in the UFC. Brown, who passed away at the age of 87, gained immense popularity not only for his legendary athletic skills as a football player but also for his contributions as a civil rights advocate and actor. He lived a remarkable life filled with achievements, including his induction into the Football Hall of Fame.

Brown peacefully passed away at his residence in Los Angeles with his wife by his side. While his NFL career was short, he captivated the audience with his exceptional football prowess. He played as a fullback for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, earning widespread recognition as one of the greatest running backs of all time. In 1965, he was chosen as the NFL’s Most Valuable Player.

MMA world laments the death of UFC 1 commentator, Jim Brown

His demise has deeply saddened the sports world. Back in 1993, he became the first African-American UFC commentator to call fights at the promotion’s first pay-per-view event in Denver alongside Bill Wallace and Kathy Long (UFC 1). He also stuck around for the promotion’s next five events. This was back when MMA wasn’t mainstream and the UFC was just founded.

The official Instagram page of the UFC posted an image of Brown and wrote, “In memory of Jim Brown.” 

Former UFC champion, Stipe Miocic, was deeply grieved after coming across his death. Miocic wrote, “A hero, a sports legend, and more importantly one of the best human beings I’ve ever known. You did so much for this city and the sport. May you rest in peace my friend.“

Brown’s involvement went beyond the UFC. He was great friends with Muhammad Ali. In fact, it was Brown who pushed the iconic Bob Arum into boxing promotion, which eventually led to the title bout between Muhammad Ali and Ernie Terrell in Chicago (1967).

UFC lightweight Clay Guida commented, “RIP LEGEND“

The retired UFC fighter Alan Jouban felt it was difficult to accept the news; he wrote, “Damn. RIP man.” Similarly, UFC welterweight Joaquin Buckley also mourned the loss and commented, “Real Legend RIP.“

“Rest in peace Jim Brown, absolute legend. Deepest condolences to his family and friends.”

A fan mentioned his greatness as an actor. “Great on the screen too!! He Got Game!” Brown has worked in movies such as ‘Dark of the Sun (1968)’, ‘The Split (1968)’ and several others.

Social media users pointed out his legacy. “He was there from the beginning.”

READ MORE: “He Had to Recognize the…”: Taking the Example of His Friend Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier Reveals How “Everything Changes” When a Fighter Faces Conor McGregor

Another fan mentioned how Brown was present in the initial days of the UFC.“First commentator in UFC history Respect to the legend, RIP.”

One fan talked about Brown’s UFC days. “Damn. I remember when he did the ufc events early on”

He is survived by his wife Monique Brown and five children.

Watch This Story – Conor McGregor Being The Best Daddy In The World