“Judo” Gene LeBell, an innovator of earl mix martial arts who trained dozens of MMA, wrestling, and Hollywood stars, has passed at age 89.
Gene Lebell dead at 89: Tributes paid to ‘Godfather’ of MMA and wrestling who was stuntman and ‘toughest man alive’ https://t.co/N8Mvsy1P2K
— The Sun MMA (@TheSunMMA) August 10, 2022
The History and Legacy of Judo Gene Lebell
LeBell is credited with bringing judo-style holds into pro wrestling. He was also a well-known stuntman and stunt coordinator in Hollywood.
LeBell was also a Hollywood stunt coordinator and may or may not have beaten up Steven Seagal.
R.I.P. Judo Gene LeBell, who refused to confirm or deny that he made Steven Seagal shit himself on the set of Out For Justice, which he absolutely, 100% did. pic.twitter.com/m0Bzfu2b19
— William Friedkin Truths (@LazlosGhost) August 10, 2022
He was a legit mixed martial artist who combined judo, jiujitsu, and catch-style wrestling.
Gene LeBell explains the LeBell Grip (3 finger grip), 1987. He tortures Mando Guerrero in the process. pic.twitter.com/hOkadorDVv
— Catch Wrestling U (@CatchWrestling) August 10, 2022
The judo master trained several martial arts, wrestling, and MMA stars, including Roddy Piper
Gene LeBell had thousands of students over the years. A notable one was the ‘Hot Rod’ himself, ‘Rowdy’ Roddy Piper. LeBell even awarded Piper a legitimate Black Belt in Judo ?. pic.twitter.com/bM2gqnDy1z
— Catch Wrestling U (@CatchWrestling) August 10, 2022
Chuck Norris
It’s with immense sadness to hear about the passing of a great man and dear friend, Gene LeBell. I’ll always remember the special times we shared together. pic.twitter.com/IqcuVDIu7O
— Chuck Norris (@chucknorris) August 10, 2022
Ronda Rousey
Gene LeBell coaching Ronda Rousey applying the Half Boston Crab. pic.twitter.com/zTmKlU2U1L
— Catch Wrestling U (@CatchWrestling) August 10, 2022
and Bruce Lee.
Gene LeBell had many claims to fame. One was becoming a regular stuntman for Bruce Lee since meeting on the set of The Green Hornet.
LeBell helped Lee choreograph the finish to his on-screen fight with Sammo Hung in ‘Enter the Dragon’ with a crucifix pin armlock. pic.twitter.com/8BAx6ULNXB
— Catch Wrestling U (@CatchWrestling) August 10, 2022
LeBell competed in what was probably the first “mixed martial arts” match against boxer Milo Savage in 1963, predating the Ali-Inoki fight.
In December 1963, perhaps the first televised MMA fight took place as Gene LeBell representing the Japanese martial arts (Judo) took on Milo Savage representing modern Western Boxing.
LeBell won after a throw and submission. pic.twitter.com/mnAuMuAOqb
— Catch Wrestling U (@CatchWrestling) August 10, 2022
LeBell was Hollywood’s go-to wrestling expert, often choreographing wrestling-themed episodes for television dramas and sitcoms.
Gene LeBell’s acting & stunt credits were unmatched. From 1961-2012. If there was a wrestling episode, he was almost always the ref. From The Beverly Hillbillies & The Munsters to Taxi and Rush Hour, an insane side-legacy. pic.twitter.com/93GL6QP0fw
— RJ City (@RJCity1) August 10, 2022
Wrestlers & MMA stars pay tribute to Gene LeBell.
AEW, Triple H & WWE acknowledged LeBell’s influence.
WWE is saddened to learn that Gene LeBell has passed away at the age of 89.
WWE extends its condolences to LeBell’s family, friends and countless fans. https://t.co/Kw9xGEhb2V
— WWE (@WWE) August 10, 2022
Gene LeBell remained a towering figure in the history and expansion of mixed martial arts and sports entertainment. A teacher to many of the sport’s greats, his influence is felt throughout @WWE to this day. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time.
— Triple H (@TripleH) August 10, 2022
AEW joins the wrestling world in mourning the passing of “Judo” Gene Lebell. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans. pic.twitter.com/epDTGpY16q
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 10, 2022
RIP Gene Lebell. I’m not sure his contributions to combat sports can be overstated enough. A man’s man, a gentleman and an absolute legend. I enjoyed the times I got to chat and laugh with him over the years. Godspeed sir.
— Frankie Kazarian (@FrankieKazarian) August 10, 2022
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