Christopher "Big Black" Boykin of "Rob & Big" Dies

Known for being skateboard star, Rob Dyrdek's, bodyguard and sidekick on the MTV reality show Rob Big, Christopher "Big Black" Boykin has died at the age of 45.
TMZ reported the news via Boykins' rep on the morning of May 9th. An official cause of death has not been released.
Dyrdek posted on Instragram honoring his friend.
A couple years ago the pair had a falling out, but had since reconciled and had appeared on Dyrdek's show Fantasy Factory.

My heart is broken. I don't want to write this post. I don't want to believe that this is reality. I am so thankful for you. We truly were brothers that lived an unexpected unforgettable adventure. I just can't fathom that it would end so suddenly. You will forever be in my heart.

A post shared by Rob Dyrdek (@robdyrdek) on May 9, 2017 at 8:06pm PDT

🙏🏼🙏🏿

A post shared by Rob Dyrdek (@robdyrdek) on May 9, 2017 at 8:09pm PDT

I am so thankful for this moment... thank you for being an amazing human being and brother.

A post shared by Rob Dyrdek (@robdyrdek) on May 9, 2017 at 8:30pm PDT

💔

A post shared by Rob Dyrdek (@robdyrdek) on May 9, 2017 at 8:47pm PDT

Prior to being on the show, Big served in the US Navy.

He's survived by his 9 year old daughter.

His ex-wife took to his Twitter account to express her sorrow.

This is Shannon, Big Black's ex-wife, I'm heartbroken to tell you of Black's passing. He's everything to me and Isis and we will miss him 💔😢

— Big Black (@BigBlack) May 10, 2017

Fantasy Factory costar Chanel Westcoast honored Big as well.

RIP @bigblack1972. My heart is crushed hearing this news. I'll never forget all the times you made me laugh. So many epic memories with you. You put smiles on a lot of people's faces and you will be missed dearly by SO many. My prayers go out to your family and loved ones. Keep them laughing up in heaven 🙌🏼🙏🏼❤️

A post shared by chanelwestcoast (@chanelwestcoast) on May 9, 2017 at 6:05pm PDT

RIP Big. You will be missed.