LeBell was 89 years old. The Creed Franchise Has Stepped Out of Rockys Shadow at Last, With Sylvester Stallone removed from the equation, Creed III is the sternest test yet of Adonis Creeds appealand a new challenge for first-time director Michael B. Jordan, The Clock Is Already Ticking for Kyrie Irving and the Mavs, Dallas now has a costar alongside Luka Doncic but has precious little time to make it all work. LeBell came off the floor by a few feet. He will always be my Stunt Senei. Theres way too much to say to even begin to scratch the surface of the career and life Gene lived, wrote the Stuntmans Association of Motion Pictures in a statement to Variety. Gene LeBell Record, Net Worth, Weight, Age & More. Chuck Norris. After his competitive career, Gene LeBell would go on to become a martial arts instructor, a professional wrestler, stunt performer and actor in Los Angeles. Love ya, Buddy Joe Hooker, My dear friend Gene. LeBell later mentored world-class athletes and silver screen legends. Contents Roddy Piper Talks MMA and Judo Gene LeBell LeBell was the third man inside the ring of one of the most famous matches in Japanese history and one that had worldwide attention. Love ya Gene. [citation needed], While serving as stunt coordinator for the film Out for Justice, starring Steven Seagal, Seagal stated that due to his aikido training he was 'immune' to being choked unconscious. Professional wrestler Bas Rutten announced LeBell's death via Facebook, writing, "You will be greatly missed Gene, May we all continue to learn from you and strive to reach the heights youve reached. Being 63 years old, LeBell declined to compete or to send a representative, instead suggesting a match against Royce's 82-year-old father, the renowned Hlio Gracie. In the stunt world, I get a pretty doggone good retirement from SAG and AFTRAand I can still work.. This is very much deserved. "The great Gene Lebell, toughest man I know, has passed away and left us at the age of 89," Rutten wrote. Gene LeBell, a renowned stuntman who trained Bruce Lee and inspired the likes of Quentin Tarantino, died in his sleep Tuesday morning at his home in Sherman Oaks, California, according to The Hollywood Reporter. LeBell authored at least twelve books, including: On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. LeBell demonstrated the choke hold by putting it on Seagal. The pictures above are from the TV show Fall Guy and I told Gene I didnt want to hit him on the bike and he said I dont want you to hit me eitheryou may hurt yourself. Congratulations Gene, you earned this award and no one in this world is taking it away from the Toughest man Alive. Jack Gill. (Gene LeBell Biography), Born in Los Angeles in 1932, LeBell was shipped off to a military school at age 6 by his full-time working mom after his father died in a surfing accident. Gene LeBell heard about the proclamation and decided to take Seagal up on the challenge. Seagal has later flatly denied the claim and LeBell has not gone as far to 100% confirm, though his student and long time friend Ronda Rousey has stood up for LeBell's honor in interviews. Enjoyed reading about Gene Lebell? We are all so proud of you, youre a legend. Gene LeBell had thousands of students over the years. Still working on the Pro Wrestling Finishing Holds book techniques to this day! On August 7, 2004, the World Martial Arts Masters Association promoted him to 10th degree. Tanner Gill, Congrats Uncle Gene!! [10], The loss by Savage, the hometown favorite, caused the crowd to react violently. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG), AnnMaria De Mars (L), with her daughter former UFC Champion and WWE star Ronda Rousey and Rouseys daughter Po, pose for a photo with Midge LeBell, wife of Judo Gene LeBell, during a celebration of his life on what would have been Genes 90th birthday at Hayastan MMA Academy in North Hollywood Sunday, October 9, 2022. In February 2005, the USJJF made him 9th dan in judo. It goes to a great man of strength, integrity and honor. When he arrived, Gene LeBell learned that he would not be fighting Beck, but instead a much more well-known boxer in Milo Savage. Gene taught my three sons how to take every day life in the training under Gene. Did Judo Gene Lebell defeat Bruce Lee? If not, would Bruce Lee - Quora 2005, Learn how and when to remove this template message, contest between Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki, Golden Boy Promotions: Liddell vs. Ortiz 3, NWA Central States Heavyweight Championship, George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, NWA "Beat the Champ" Television Championship, NWA North American Heavyweight Championship, "IBK International Kyokushin Budokai Blak Belts", "Roots of Fight Brings Us the Story of "Judo" Gene LeBell MMA Pioneer and Terrifying Old Man", "Could Gene LeBell beat up Bruce Lee? I wont say rest easy because we just dont see that happening with Gene. A lot of fighters are broke. With a background in judo and jiu-jitsu, LeBell was the mastermind behind some of the greatest fighters in the world. You always tried to get me to go dirt biking with you but I never gave in. It is with a heavy heart that we recognize our past member and friend, Mr. Gene LeBell, has passed on. He is currently 89 years old. LeBell's longtime friend Bas Rutten first revealed the news on Facebook. He was also a Nevada and California Athletic Commission judge, including judging UFC 74 (Randy Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga) and his website judogene.com is visited by martial arts and film fans all over the globe. Weve worked together for over (50) years and its been (50) years of pure delight. Gene LeBell would become involved in a challenge match proposed by boxer and writer Jim Beck to all practitioners of Japanese martial arts. He is there to help you any time any where. [2] He worked on over 1,000 films and TV shows and authored 12 books. Sugar Ray Robinson. He was known by many as the "Godfather of Grappling," and influenced fighters around the world. You have given so much to our community and film business! LeBell recalled throwing Lee over his shoulder and running around set as Lee screamed, Put me down or Ill kill you. The pair became friends, and LeBell taught Lee judo and wrestling moves, many of which Lee used in his movies, The Way of The Dragon and Enter the Dragon., He was the best martial artist of his time, LeBell recalled in Black Belt Magazine. Gene LeBell in 2010 and with Lindsay Wagner on 'The Bionic Woman' in 1976 GI. Each speaker spoke fondly of the larger-than-life LeBell, recounting stories and memories of how he inspired them and the love they felt for him. Bruce Lee's father Lee Hoi-chuen was a famous Cantonese opera singer based in Hong Kong. Michael Hughes, Thank you for being such an influence and inspiration to MANY! This award is only given to a select few. In return, the boxer's camp agreed that he would wear a Judo Gi or uniform, although he ultimately wore a Karate Gi which fit much tighter and was more difficult to grab onto. LeBell was also a judo and grappling prodigy. You were a better reference than SAG! Gene LeBell was born on October 09, 1932 in Los Angeles, California, United States, is Stunts, Actor, Miscellaneous Crew. People gather to celebrate the life of Judo Gene LeBell on what would have been his 90th birthday at Hayastan MMA Academy in North Hollywood Sunday, October 9, 2022. Stoked I get to make it this year. LeBell served as the inspiration for Brad Pitt's character in Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.. He sparred with James Cagney while shooting Blood on the Sun in 1945, allowing the famous actor to dominate the 20-minute skirmish which garnered rave reviews. LeBell is back in the limelight on the 50th anniversary of what's considered the first notable mixed martial arts fight in the United States, even though the term wasn't used: His Dec. 2, 1963 . At the insistence of friend and martial artist, Ed Parker, Gene LeBell accepted the challenge match and travelled to Utah to fight Beck. LeBells years of stunt work and fight choreography also introduced grappling to the world of action movies, where it is now commonplace to see fighters turned actors such as Randy Couture and Gina Carano using submission holds in their action sequences. Savanah Dawn Lilley, The one and only Uncle Gene! A industry standard, and great human being! He was 89. Gene LeBell had three children including stuntman son David LeBell and FBI . Its an honor to be your student and friend. I have grown up idolizing many of the SU members over the yearsGenes massive career and list of credits is insane. Gene LeBell reflects on 50th anniversary of first major American mixed We cant have blood! Gaffer tape stanched the bleeding, and LeBell managed six more takes. whose residence contained hours of phone recordings, was acquitted on a murder charge but convicted and sentenced to probation as an accessory, Bryan Danielson Is the Best Hes Ever Been According to Bryan Danielson, Jon Joness Last Stand, Wembys Ceiling, Jokic Backlash, and UFOs With Ariel Helwani and Chuck Klosterman. (Gene LeBell Biography), LeBell transitioned from amateur to AAU national judo champ in 1954 and catapulted to national attention but as a pro wrestler, playing Hank the Hangman; he made a living by losing every match. I tried to get your son some work but hes always at the beach. Brandon Recor, Congratulations!!! Born in Los Angeles in 1932, LeBell was shipped off to a military. "My name is Gene LeBell. As wellback in the day..i drove out to ride motos with Gene & some friends at his area in Frazier Park. Gene LeBell, 89, Judo Champion, Wrestler and Star Stuntman, Dies All my love and respect Matt Taylor, Aloha Uncle Gene, Mahalo for sharing your secret Hawaiian Hug mahalo for all your knowledge & advice that youve given. You have been a legend for over 60 years and Im honored each month that I get to see you!!!! In 1994, LeBell counted kickboxing champion Benny Urquidez and Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners the Machado brothers among his training partners. Hardcover - January 1, 2004. The Life & Legend of "Judo" Gene LeBell - POST Wrestling Chuck & Charlotte Waters, Special man and amazing human being, so deserving of this recognition. The program featured several other martial artists including Graciela Casilas, Karen Sheperd, Victor Ledbetter, Steve Sanders, brothers Benny and Reuben Urquidez, and Dave Vaden. Who's The Real "Father Of MMA"? 10 Fighters More Deserving Of The Nick Plantico, Congrats Gene!! Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), The late Judo Gene LeBells 90th birthday is celebrated by 200 friends, students, family, Year after the slap, Chris Rock punches back in new special, At least 5 hurt, suspect at large in San Pedro shooting, Snowed-in Crestline residents make the best of it with volunteers, booze, San Bernardino mountain residents grow worried as they cant access medicine, supplies, Gene LeBell, iconic martial arts pioneer, dies at the age of 89, How Victor Henry found himself making his UFC debut Saturday at age 34, She will hurt you: Ronda Rousey, 24, owns it in MMA ring, UFC 199: Mauro Ranallo, Bas Rutten offer Inside MMA perspectives, UFC heavyweight Josh Barnett looks to keep climbing ranks, California Republicans give a boost to Florida Gov. It was the long-running Lassie series that first tested LeBells mettle. Gene LeBell was a man who lived a full and adventurous life. Gene LeBell began his martial arts training at the age of 13 and went on to become the "Godfather of Grappling" and is considered by many to be the . They thought of each other has good friends but Gene Lebell said he taught Bruce Lee but Bruce said they shared techniques but not as a teacher/student relationsh. Billy Robinson. Gene LeBell died in his sleep on August 9 th 22, at age 89, two months to the day shy of his 90 th birthday. Ill be there to shake your hand tomorrow. We worked out about 10 to 12 times at his place in Los Angeles Chinatown and at my place.. His mother, Aileen Eaton, promoted fights at the Olympic Auditorium and was the first woman inducted into the International Boxing Hall of . Gene LeBell, iconic martial arts pioneer, dies at the age of 89 - Daily A large frame surrounded a pink gi his signature judo uniform hung above a doorway leading to the training area. Gene LeBell (also called "Judo Gene" and "the Godfather of Grappling") went on to perform stunts in hundreds of movies, train martial artists like Chuck . He is loved by so many and admired by countless others. Those were great times !! The Legendary Gene LeBell Passes Away at 89 - Wrestling Headlines His students in those fields included Roddy Piper, Ronda Rousey, and many others. LeBell, whom many credit for bringing judo into mixed martial arts, served as a mentor to former UFC champion Ronda Rousey throughout her MMA run, but his roots run much deeper. He taught fighters like Rowdy Roddy Piper, Chuck Norris, and Ronda Rousey how to grapple and regularly trained Bruce Lee. You are an inspiration!! (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG), Bas Rutten, Gokor Chivichyan, Paul Lazenby and Josh Barnett during a celebration of life for Judo Gene LeBell on what would have been his 90th birthday at Hayastan MMA Academy in North Hollywood Sunday, October 9, 2022. The seeds that Gene LeBell helped plant have grown into the modern landscape of mixed martial arts that we know today. [10] LeBell tried several techniques through the second and third rounds and was finally successful in taking Savage down, but Savage kept defending both standing and on the ground in a very technical manner, seemingly confirming LeBell's theory about his opponent's grappling training. Stuntman Gene LeBell might not have been around since Hollywood's first fist fight, but his skill has transformed the genre. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him, especially us. He deserves this award. Gene LeBell chokes out student and he has 'accident' Genes feature film appearances include Blue Hawaii (1965), Planet of the Apes (1968), Raging Bull (1980), Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985), Bad Guys (1986), Hard to Kill (1990), Die Hard 2 (1990), Patriot Games (1992), Ed Wood (1994), L.A. [25], LeBell has earned himself the nicknames "Judo" Gene LeBell, "the Godfather of Grappling" and also "the toughest man alive" for his participation in combat sports. He won the Amateur Athletic Union National Judo Championships in 1954 and 1955 when he was 22, according to Black Belt Magazine. (James C. Udel, Variety, 2018). Gene LeBell began his martial arts training at the age of 13 and went on to become the Godfather of Grappling and is considered by many to be the father of MMA. [6], Ivan Gene LeBell was born in Los Angeles, California. You deserve every bit of it! After an illustrious judo career, Gene tried his hand at professional wrestling, and actually won the heavyweight title in Amarillo, Texas. They shared their stories about the Toughest Man Alive and Godfather of Grapplings warmth and generosity. What are you doing? LeBell remembers the helmer lamenting. Congratulations, Connie P Conrad Palmisano, Congratulations Uncle Gene for receiving the lifetime award. While working with rising martial arts star Bruce Lee on the set of The Green Hornet, LeBell was instructed by the stunt coordinator to subdue the actorwho was said to be terrorizing the stuntman for a particular sceneand did so by quickly grabbing Lee in a firemans carry and running around the set with him. Outside of the fight game, LeBell worked in film & television, appearing in multiple Elvis Presley movies and working on The Green Hornet TV series, where he struck up a friendship with Bruce Lee. August 10, 2022 1:24pm. All the best! He would also occasionally wrestle in a disguise as The Hangman. Home | hayastanmma Gene is survived by his wife Midge, his children Monica and David; stepchildren Danny and Stacey; and grandchildren Daniel, Tyler and Nicholas. It hurt. Gene LeBell, Hollywood Stuntman and Martial Artist, Dies at 89 - Variety On Sunday, Oct. 9, legendary martial artist and stuntman "Judo" Gene LeBell would have turned 90. He is currently the head grappling coach at Jaco Hybrid Training Center.He is the former head grappling coach at both . A long overdue, but well deserved award. [31], On August 9, 2022, LeBell died in his sleep.[32][33]. He was 89. Gene LeBell, Famed Stuntman and "Godfather of Grappling," Dies at 89 Video: Gene LeBell in boxing vs. judo fight in 1963 Two hundred of his friends, students, and family gathered at Hayastan MMA Academy in North Hollywood to celebrate his storied life and remember how he touched each of them in a way only LeBell could. Well deserved. Judo Gene LeBell the Godfather of Grappling was both a renowned ex-world champion in both wrestling/judo, and one of Hollywoods busiest stuntmen. Many modern-day MMA fans recognize LeBell as the one who is present in many of Rousey's early games, coaching her on. Colleagues, friends and fans (in most cases they qualify as all three) have contributed their congratulations to the living legend that is Judo Gene LeBell. Cheers! After earning these titles, LeBell made the transition to professional wrestling because of the promise of better earnings in the sport. All my love and respect Pat Romano, Ya ya Uncle Gene , to one of the Gilberts favorite people . As a stuntman, LeBell reportedly endured a punch from John Wayne for the 1952 film Big Jim McLain and a kick in the face from Elvis Presley for Blue Hawaii in 1961. [4] LeBell appeared in three Elvis Presley movies as a minor character who starts a fight with the character played by Presley. The tributes for "Judo" Gene LeBell, who died on August 9, 2022, at age 89, poured in after news of his passing starting circulating. It must be said at this stage that . [2] He was born in Los Angeles. The simplest version of the tale has Seagal boasting that he couldnt be choked out, and LeBell, then in his 50s and significantly smaller than the 6-foot-4 actor, going behind the star, then taking him to the ground and choking him out. It will be donated to St. Jude Childrens Hospital, Southern California, in honor of LeBell. wrote the Stuntmans Association of Motion Pictures in a statement to Variety, whose portrayal of an overconfident Lee by actor Mike Moh in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood spurred backlash. So, congratulation Gene LeBell from the Winburn families for receiving the Taurus Lifetime Achievement Award. LeBell is also a writer and has penned a dozen books on martial arts. Sammy Horowitz, Congratulations Gene, its about time you were acknowledged for your amazing contribution to the stunt world. In a recent conversation with Bob Calhoun, the coauthor of LeBells autobiography The Godfather of Grappling, the judoka, then 87 years old, said he was surprised that Lee didnt try to counter me, so I think he was more surprised than anything else. In the years that followed, Lee worked with LeBell to incorporate grappling into his films, defeating Sammo Hung with an arm bar in Enter the Dragon and Chuck Norriswho would become another long-time collaborator of LeBellsvia chokehold in Way of the Dragon. Proud to be your friend! [7] According to fellow BJJ artist Royce Gracie, LeBell was invited to compete in Ultimate Fighting Championship in early 1995, after Gracie stopped participating in its tournaments. Although LeBell would remain undefeated in the sport for eight years, even traveling to Japan in 1955 to further his judo skillsand, following a laundry mishap, adopt the pink gi that became a signature piece of his in-ring lookhis interests were too varied to allow him to focus exclusively on one sport. Legendary MMA Trainer Gene LeBell Has Passed Away At 89 Other recordings discovered had ties to the presidential campaign of Richard Nixon. It was agreed that the match would last five 3 three minute rounds. You are a true living legend. The belt was immediately seized from the shocked Gene, which in later years would cause him to comment, Well, at least I was the champ for 12 seconds and I retired as champion. (Gene LeBell Biography), Gene went on to fight numerous opponents over the years including practitioners from other fighting arts that scoffed at Genes prowess, however they learned the hard way that Genes superb grappling skills were the real deal. He has trained several notable students including Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, and Ronda Rousey. At four months old (April 1941), the Lee family returned to Hong Kong. There he found quick success. Congratulations Gene LeBell! I feel really fortunate to have had him as a part of my life as it is, and really glad to also been able to tell him what an amazing human being, and what an amazing martial artist, he was straight to his face.. Mickey Gilbert, Ill never forget working with Gene in Minneapolis for David Ellis. developed adult skills by 13. He is, and always has been, a perfect example of what a professional stuntman should be and continues to teach and hand down his vast knowledge to all young and old who want to learn. Well deserved !!! You have definitely earned it for all your contributions to the industry. In the the Quentin Tarantino film "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood", Bruce Lee was made to look as an arrogant martial arts actor. You may have seen his name in the credits of countless movies and television shows dating back to the late 1960's. You may have caught the "Godfather of Grappling" in one of his matches in the world of professional wrestling, you may know him as the "toughest man on the . Congrats my friend and God Bless. He also had 8 grandchildren. I am so glad I was there Live to see it ! Gene, I appreciate the things youve accomplished in life, and acknowledge your generosity to those you have helped to achieve theirs. The legendary story of Steven Seagal and 'Judo' Gene Lebell He was a man that no endeavor was too tall for him to accomplish, Josh Barnett said of LeBell. Who was 'Judo' Gene LeBell? Martial artist, 89, was the - MEAWW Hollywood stuntman and martial artist Gene LeBell has died. 2023 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. [20], LeBell also appeared in "The World of Martial Arts Budojujitsu". Mike Smith, Congratulations on this most deserving award for a really great guy. An additional stipulation prevented LeBell from attempting tackles or takedowns under the waist. For most of Eatons time in the business, she was the only major female fight promoter in the United States, possibly even the world. "Judo" Gene LeBelle Passes Away At Age 89 | Rajah.com He began training catch wrestling at age 7 with Ed "The Strangler" Lewis. [10][11] Nevertheless, LeBell got mount and found the opportunity to execute an armbar, but he opted instead to seek a choke, concluding that Savage would not surrender to a broken arm. Gary Davis, So awesome!!! Gene LeBell Dies: Stuntman, Actor And Wrestling Legend Who Fought Bruce Bruce and I had a bond with the martial arts, and we would get together frequently. Gene LeBell's martial arts career was supported and influenced by his mother "Red Head" Aileen Eaten who was a promoter of both sports and who owned the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles. LeBells top student, Gokor Chivichyan, hosted the event at his martial arts academy to celebrate the life of his mentor and close friend. His very first match was against John Osako, one of the highest ranked judokas at the national level. Why Gene LeBell's Life Is Like A Movie - TWM+: Sports, Entertainment Interview with Gene LeBell. But whats the legacy of the blockbuster album? Gene LeBell won his weight class and the overall championship in 1955 as well. LeBell even awarded Piper a legitimate Black Belt in Judo . Ivan Judo Gene LeBell (October 9, 1932 August 9, 2022) was an American martial artist, stunt performer, actor, and professional wrestler. From TV shows like Mission: Impossible, Batman, and Reno 911! to movies including, The Towering Inferno, RoboCop, Total Recall and Independence Day, LeBell was a go-to stunt coordinator for decades. Bruce Lee - Wikipedia To succeed in the NFL, hell need to be an outlier among outliers. Beck claimed that a boxer could defeat any martial artist in a straight fight and offered $1000 to anyone who could prove otherwise. Gene LeBell was promoted to 9th degree in jujitsu and taihojutsu in 2000 by the United States Ju-Jitsu (USJJF) Ju Jitsu Federation. Whether through his chokes or his jokes, Gene LeBell has been an inspiration for more people than he will ever realize. He is the author of 12 martial arts books. Wear this Award well my friend. His notable students include Rousey, WWE Hall of Famer Roddy Piper, and Chuck Norris, among others. Tarantino, whose portrayal of an overconfident Lee by actor Mike Moh in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood spurred backlash drew heavily from LeBell when he crafted Brad Pitts character in the film as stuntman Cliff Booth, as LeBell had trained in Japan and studied judo years before Lee became a master. Gene LeBell is currently married to Wendy LeBell whom he married in 1977. By the time he transitioned to judo in the early 1950s, LeBell had already spent untold hours in submission holds and on the receiving end of punches from boxers like the great Sugar Ray Robinson at L.A.s famous Main Street Gym. Gene LeBell, also known as 'Judo Gene LeBell' is best known for, you guessed it, judo. Steve Boyum, Absolutely couldnt go to a better candidate. You are a true living legend! Known by many as "the Godfather of Grappling", LeBell helped make the grappling arts like Judo, Wrestling, and Jiu Jitsu popular in professional fighting circles. UFC news: 'Judo' Gene LeBell dead at 89; MMA community mourns Influential combat sports icon "Judo" Gene LeBell has died at 89. [7][9] The unusual stipulations convinced LeBell the Savage camp, far from being ignorant about martial arts, had trained Savage in judo in order to defend against LeBell's throws. For similar uses, see, MMA History Gene Lebell VS Milo Savage, 1963, The Godfather of Grappling (authorised biography of LeBell) by "Judo" Gene LeBell, Bob Calhoun, George Foon, and Noelle Kim. The godfather of modern grappling and a legitimate tough guy in his own right, LeBell. The damage inflicted definitely favored Inoki, who battered Alis legs sufficiently that the Greatest struggled with his mobility in a fight against Ken Norton later that year, but LeBellwho had Inoki slightly ahead on his own scorecard, per the account in journalist Josh Grosss book Ali vs. Inoki: The Forgotten Fight That Inspired Mixed Martial Arts and Launched Sports Entertainmentchose to deduct points for an illegal groin strike, thus affording Ali a split-decision draw that showcased how dull MMA could get without the appropriate rules in place. [7] Despite his pedigree, he did not get over immediately with audiences but gradually became known for his martial arts background. Mal, Jo, and Ben get together to talk about where the Mandalorian people are, what adventure awaits Din and Grogu, and much more.