The Game: Kimbo Slice Was a Black Hero

Kimbo Slice was an inspiration -- a guy who turned nothing into something -- and he'll be missed ... so says rapper The Game.

Game is a huge fight fan -- and says Slice's story about going from strip club bouncer to one of the most famous fighters in the world is nothing short of amazing.

"Just being an African American and coming from the hood ... I think that Kimbo Slice is one of those stories that gives people hope."

Check out the clip ... Slice clearly meant a lot to Game -- and he explains the lesson that people should learn from the tragedy.