The tributes for "Judo" Gene LeBell, who died on August 9, 2022, at age 89, poured in after news of his passing starting circulating. The only thing that is different is that judo has strangleholds, which arent done in pro wrestling., Although LeBell considered full-time careers as a boxer and a judoka, the lure of better money in pro wrestling and Hollywood stunt productionsas well as connections to both industriesled him into those fields. All my love and respect Pat Romano, Ya ya Uncle Gene , to one of the Gilberts favorite people . Steven Seagal was a highly trained aikido expert and because of this, he would proclaim to the world that he was immune to choking. The back and forth match between the boxer and the grappler/judoka was an early precursor to the mixed martial arts battles that millions of fans enjoy today. It goes to a great man of strength, integrity and honor. Gene LeBell talks about Bruce Lee. LeBell served as the referee for the exhibition match between world heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki on June 26, 1976, at . [7][10] Savage even attempted to sweep the judoka in one instance. Judo Gene LeBell was famous for his catch wrestling technique that later became an influence in both pro wrestling and mixed martial arts. Karl Gotch. The legendary story of Steven Seagal and 'Judo' Gene Lebell Afterwards, attracted by better potential earnings and the family's legacy in the business, LeBell transitioned to professional wrestling. [31], On August 9, 2022, LeBell died in his sleep.[32][33]. Grand Master Gi Grappling by Gokor Chivichyan. 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. 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. "Judo" Gene LeBell | The Godfather of Grappling He was set to compete the following day and being a Saturday evening when he received the now colored uniform, he had to compete in the pink uniform. Gene Lebell, who had an acting and stunt career that stretched from The Adventures of Ozzie . [18], LeBell has worked on over 1,000 films, TV shows and commercials as a stuntman or as an actor (including multiple appearances as himself). In June 1976, LeBell refereed the infamous boxing-versus-wrestling contest between Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki in Tokyo, Japan. Beck claimed that a boxer could defeat any martial artist in a straight fight and offered $1000 to anyone who could prove otherwise. The boxer's side demanded a stipulation in which the smaller and older Savage (Savage was 39 while LeBell was 31 at the date of the fight) could use any type of punch, while the judoka could not kick, in the apparent belief LeBell was a karateka. Within seconds, Savage fell unconscious and LeBell was declared the winner. So they said I could make good money in professional wrestling, which I did. He went on to win the both the Heavyweight and overall champion title 1955 as well. David Burton, Congrats Gene LeBell great job well done Grover Gay, Congrats Gene LeBell! May we all continue to learn from you and strive to reach the heights youve reached. Youve not only accomplished a great name in our industry but many,many brothers and sister stunt people that admire and love you very much. You always got the cool moves to Choke em Out .. stay healthy my friend .. Love, Troy Gilbert, Unreal. Roddy Piper. Along with the awards received for feats in judo and grappling, LeBell was the 2005 recipient of the Frank Gotch Award in celebration of the positive recognition he brought to the sport of wrestling. Love and Respect John C Meier, Gene, I first met you at the Olympic Auditorium many years ago, i cant believe how fast time has past, As a Great stuntman, Actor, Olympian and Teacher being Prolific to this Business you have planted many many seeds in Future Stunt men and stunt women, because of your thoughtful and kind hart this business will be Blessed with talent worthy of calling you Teacher and Friend, Your Long Lost, Brother From Another Mother, and Friend, Love You, Henry Kingi, Uncle GeneI can remember taking your class when I was a young stunt grunt. An additional stipulation prevented LeBell from attempting tackles or takedowns under the waist. Few people know the amount of time, energy, dedication, innovation , and pure love you have graced us with in your illustrious career! Congratulations Gene Eric Norris, Gene LeBell is my hero and always has been. LeBell served as the inspiration for Brad Pitt's character in Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.. Congratulations & we all love you. Gene LeBell's most famous match was his match with boxer/wrestler Milo Savage. (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. she was the only major female fight promoter in the United States, who was said to be terrorizing the stuntman for a particular scene, background in the Japanese martial art of aikido. Jimmy Halty, Congratulations Gene. [7] Despite his pedigree, he did not get over immediately with audiences but gradually became known for his martial arts background. (James C. Udel, Variety, 2018), The remarkable Judo Gene LeBell was still teaching grappling and doing stunts well into his 80s. As a stuntman, Gene has worked on more than 1000 film and television projects during a career that has spanned over 50 years. We ask all these burning questions, and more! On the day of the match, Savage appeared wearing a karategi instead, much tighter and harder to grab. Gene LeBell Dead: Stuntman, Actor And Wrestling Legend Was 89 - Deadline LeBells Rolodex is not just one hall of fame roster, but multiple, as hes played integral roles in the worlds of boxing, judo, wrestling, and Hollywood stunt-work. Stuntman Gene LeBell might not have been around since Hollywood's first fist fight, but his skill has transformed the genre. Anil Rai, Congratulations Mr. This set the Japanese crowd livid, as it was considered very insulting, but they somewhat calmed down after LeBell went on to win his division. Cheers! Gene LeBell has three children Monica, Danny, and David. He worked on over 1,000 movies and wrote a dozen books. Could James Harden Potentially Return to Houston After the Season? Roberts, Nobody in the world more respected!! However, Gene LeBell was a 10th degree judo black belt and one of the toughest men on the planet, so the director knew this wouldn't happen to him. When I first came to town in 1987, I remember trying to get my hands on one those Stunt Rate breakdown cards you used to make. Almost everyone present to honor him wore a Gene LeBell tee-shirt, and his widow Midge sported a sweater covered in patches that LeBell made over the years to give out to fans for souvenirs. LeBell judged fights for several decades, but retired from it after Golden Boy Promotions: Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 on November 24, 2018. It always put a smile on my face when you would call the SAMP office. LeBell's conviction for being an accessory was later overturned by the California Courts of Appeal. Best Hugh Aodh OBrien, All Rights Reserved.Web design by My Life at Speed Digital Services, Stan Barrett, Paul Newman, and Breaking Land Speed Records, Annual Stunts Unlimited Directory Membership Payment, The Stunts Unlimited Directory Membership 20% Off Promotion, actor and stuntman in Hollywood productions, https://stuntsunlimited.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Jon-Boucher-One-of-my-personal-favorite-Gene-Lebell-television-appearances-as-Tarzan-McGirk-taking-on-the-mysterious-Masked-Marvel-on-an-episode-of-The-Munsters..mp4, In Loving Memory of Judo Gene LeBell, 1932-2022. He started training in catch wrestling and boxing from his early childhood, influenced by his mother, "Red Head" Aileen Eaton, a promoter of both sports who owned the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles. 2023 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. The boxer's camp even went as far to argue for the stipulation that Savage could use any type of punch, but the judoka could not kick or use takedowns under the waist. Professional wrestler Bas Rutten announced LeBell's death via Facebook, writing, "You will be greatly missed Gene, When he entered the 1954 AAU National Judo championship as a lightly regarded 160-pound heavyweight, he pinned 1952 Pan American Games gold medalist Johnny Osako in his first match, then went on to win both his weight class as well as the overall tournament. 'The Godfather of Grappling' evolved to be a popular figure in the martial arts world after he extended to various other forms of sports, including judo and mixed martial arts. The grappling club master . You too? Previously, he was married to Eleanor Martindale between 1975 and 1976, Eileen Murillo (1960), Olga Allen between 1957 until 1959, and Midge LeBell before that. Rick Seaman, Well Geno, they said it couldnt be done but youve done it again. UFC 285 Preview: Can Jon Jones Turn Back the Clock? LeBell even awarded Piper a legitimate Black Belt in Judo . (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. Wrestlers & MMA stars pay tribute to Gene LeBell. He eventually adopted the role as "policeman" for the promotion, maintaining law and order, especially during matches involving his brother Mike LeBell. Black Belt EXCLUSIVE. To his surprise, he learned his opponent would not be Beck but a higher regarded boxer, Milo Savage, who also had a background in amateur wrestling. Gene LeBell, who died on August 9 at age 89, led a life so expansive that any mere retelling of it would come across like a tall tale, the stuff of Pecos Bill and Paul Bunyanif all of it werent true. The latter then accepted, but only if LeBell could drop 100 pounds to reach his weight, otherwise he would have to face Royce's brothers, similarly 20 years younger than LeBell though still lighter than him. Influential combat sports icon "Judo" Gene LeBell has died at 89. In a story worthy of the detective novels of Raymond Chandler, LeBell, who drove California pornography magnate Jack Ginsburgs to the murder scene, was acquitted on a murder charge but convicted and sentenced to probation as an accessory for his role in transporting Ginsburgs to the murdera conviction later overturned by the California Court of Appeals in a heavily fact-dependent decision based on careful interpretation of state rules of evidence rather than any new proof of LeBells innocence. . In the stunt world, I get a pretty doggone good retirement from SAG and AFTRAand I can still work.. Gene was an actor and stuntman in Hollywood productions for over fifty years with more than 150 acting credits and 250 stunt credits. Why Are American Teens So Unhappy? Something went wrong. If I could get my arms around you I would hug you. Instead of being hit first, it was LeBell who would put Bruce Lee in a headlock and carry him around the set. Mal, Jo, and Ben get together to talk about where the Mandalorian people are, what adventure awaits Din and Grogu, and much more. [13] He also continued to work in professional wrestling intermittently, wrestling his final match on August 29, 1981, against Peter Maivia for NWA Hollywood Wrestling. The Cauliflower Alley Club presented the award. The seeds that Gene LeBell helped plant have grown into the modern landscape of mixed martial arts that we know today. Heffay Cadiente, Big congrats Uncle Gene! Gene LeBell Record, Net Worth, Weight, Age & More! 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 . FLASH SALE - Buy 1 video get 40% OFF - COUPON40, Buy 2 videos get 43% OFF - COUPON43, Buy 3 or more videos get 45% OFF - COUPON45. Working with Gene on many television and films, I learned how to take judo and marital art punches and kicks and fly through the air, crazing through various objects to the ground . His students in those fields included Roddy Piper, Ronda Rousey, and many others. The Life & Times of Gene LeBell - Black Belt Magazine Mike Smith, Congratulations on this most deserving award for a really great guy. Well deserved.- Bonnie Happy, Well deserved. His career bore that out. With love and affection, Sandy Gimpel, Congrats on your big nite!! He is the author of 12 martial arts books. You have definitely earned it for all your contributions to the industry. Love ya, Bax Craig Baxley, Sr. Gene LeBell: Bruce Lee in the UFC, Ronda Rousey, if anybody can beat her, Judo in MMA, Jimmy Kimmel, Congratulations Gene..its about time!!! Well deserved. 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 . A video shown at the memorial featured many of his accomplishments from the stunt and martial arts world, evoking smiles, laughter and tears that had many in the crowd wiping their eyes. 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. Your culture and entertainment cheat-sheet. Gene LeBell, the colorful judo champion, wrestler and stuntman who trained Bruce Lee, fought Elvis Presley and John Wayne in the movies and was an inspiration for Brad Pitt's character in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, has died.He was 89. We cant have blood! Gaffer tape stanched the bleeding, and LeBell managed six more takes. He was known by many as the Godfather of Grappling, and influenced fighters around the world. [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. Tanner Gill, Congrats Uncle Gene!! You used to practice on your son David and I used to say to him I want to try that too, to be choked out by your dad. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG), Former UFC Champion and WWE star Ronda Rousey talks 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. LeBell is also a writer and has penned a dozen books on martial arts. Seagal himself denies the entire situation, calling LeBell a sick, pathological scumbag liar, though even Seagals former bodyguard Steven Lambert tells a version of the story that has Seagal attempting to resist LeBells application of the hold before winding up on the ground, though remaining conscious throughout. He has fought, trained and performed with a dizzying array of some of the most prolific athletes and actors in the world. The godfather of modern grappling and a legitimate tough guy in his own right, LeBell. Home | hayastanmma AEW, Triple H & WWE acknowledged LeBell's influence. It was a fascinating collection of people mourning too, from the world of pro wrestling, mixed martial arts, acting, and beyond. He will always be my Stunt Senei. Here's What Really Happened When Bruce Lee Fought A - TheThings He was a man that no endeavor was too tall for him to accomplish, Josh Barnett said of LeBell. In December 1939, his parents went to Chinatown, San Francisco in California for an international opera tour. Tim Gilbert, This tribute is well deserved. Michael Hilow, Congratulations to the prettiest man in Hollywood, and the reason the phrase Bad Ass was created.. No one is more deserving than my buddy, and everyones Uncle.. Uncle Gene! 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 was a man who lived a full and adventurous life. The only thing I have against MMA is they dont have a retirement plan. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG), Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett, talks about Judo Gene LeBell during a celebration of LeBells life on what would have been his 90th birthday at Hayastan MMA Academy in North Hollywood Sunday, October 9, 2022. Beck engaged in a great deal of pre-fight trash talk, but it was clear that he had very little knowledge of Japanese martial arts even going as far as confusing traditional judo for karate. I love you Gene and I am very proud of your accomplishments in our business. We worked out about 10 to 12 times at his place in Los Angeles Chinatown and at my place.. "Judo" Gene LeBell the "Godfather of Grappling" was both a renowned ex-world champion in both wrestling/judo, and one of Hollywood's busiest stuntmen. He is currently the head grappling coach at Jaco Hybrid Training Center.He is the former head grappling coach at both . (James C. Udel, Variety, 2018). On August 7, 2004, the World Martial Arts Masters Association promoted him to 10th degree. He is currently 89 years old. At the insistence of friend and martial artist, Ed Parker, Gene LeBell accepted the challenge match and travelled to Utah to fight Beck. LeBell was the third man inside the ring of one of the most famous matches in Japanese history and one that had worldwide attention. Plus, does starting Tyrese Maxey versus DeAnthony Melton make a difference on the defensive end? Tough Guys Wear Pink in Any Color, Judo Master and Film Stuntman Gene This award is only given to a select few. 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. "Judo" Gene LeBell Tribute - YouTube So may you rest in power, Gene.. Ronda Rousey. To this day you are still teaching and sharing your wealth of knowledge with the next generation! Gene LeBell, Famed Stuntman and "Godfather of Grappling," Dies at 89 Confidential (1997) Batman & Robin (1997), Rush Hour (1998), The Man on the Moon (1999) Men in Black II (2002), Spiderman 2 (2004), Starsky & Hutch (2004), Over his career, LeBell was bludgeoned, shot, run over, karate-chopped (he became friends with Bruce Lee) and drowned for $2,000 per week earning more than most lawyers during those days. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. 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. OSU! Gene LeBell had thousands of students over the years. [6], Ivan Gene LeBell was born in Los Angeles, California. Seagal, a towering man who had a background in the Japanese martial art of aikido, has long battled with stunt choreographers and fight trainers on setin Shooters, Jonathan Snowden quotes Pride announcer Stephen Quadross story of engaging in an uncomfortable series of wristlock exchanges with Seagal on the set of the 2001 film Exit Woundsbut by most accounts (and there are many), his encounter with LeBell went poorly. G-E-N-E Capital-L-E-Capital-B-E-L-L. . People called him the Toughest Man Alive. Plus, Nadine Smith on the Agendas Behind Wrestling Documentaries. Stunts Unlimited Member Gene LeBell was presented with the Taurus Lifetime Achievement Award on Saturday, May 13th, 2017 for his outstanding contribution to the world of action feature films. He learnt that the hard way when he came face to face with 'Judo' Gene Lebell and boasted that he was able to escape any hold that the human body could throw at him. I am so glad I was there Live to see it ! He has trained several notable students including Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, and Ronda Rousey. The Hollywood Reporter: Gene LeBell, Famed Stuntman and Godfather of Grappling, Dies at 89, Deadline: Gene LeBell Dies: Stuntman, Actor And Wrestling Legend Who Fought Bruce Lee & Chuck Norris Onscreen Was 89, MMA Fighting: Toughest man I know: Pros react to pioneer Judo Gene LeBells death, The Huffington Post: Gene LeBell, Famed Stuntman, Martial Artist And Bruce Lees Teacher Dies At 89. Steve Boyum, Absolutely couldnt go to a better candidate. Chris Pellitteri, Mr. Gene LeBell ; Thank you for your kindness and wisdom over the years. According to a 2014 interview in Black Belt, LeBell had no idea the fight would be as significant as later developments in the sport of MMA have made it. LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA- Famous wrestler, Martial artist Ivan Gene LeBell better known as Gene LeBell, passes away at 89. RIP Gene LeBell - Part II - Black Belt Magazine The Ploys and Tactics Behind Oscar Campaigning, A Secret Laundromat Meetup, New Jersey Episode 4, and Potomac Reunion Part 2. A true legend with a legacy of amazing stunt history. Norman Howell, Congratulations Gene LeBell an incredible Honor an so well deserved. Without locking the hold, Seagal side stepped and swung his forearm backwards into his crotch. God bless. He had spent time in Japan training at the Kodokan. He taught fighters like Rowdy Roddy Piper, Chuck Norris, and Ronda Rousey how to grapple and regularly trained Bruce Lee. There is no one alive on this planet that deserves this Life Time Achievement Award more than you. His second best fight was probably his back and forth battle with 80's and 90's martial arts action star Steven Seagal. Nicknamed "The Godfather of Grappling", he popularized grappling in professional fighting circles, serving as a precursor to modern mixed martial arts. Gene LeBell was born on October 09, 1932 in Los Angeles, California, United States, is Stunts, Actor, Miscellaneous Crew. Wrestling, MMA, movie worlds pay tribute to Judo Gene LeBell It must be said at this stage that . Gary Davis, So awesome!!! Gene LeBell - MMA & Wrestling Pioneer - Passes Away At 89 - TheMix.net Gene LeBell has had a number of notable students throughout the years, from Hollywood legends like Chuck Norris and Roddy Pipper, to martial arts masters such as Gokor Chivichyan, Karo Parisyan, Ronda Rousey, Neil Melanson, Ed Parker and Benny "The Jet" Urquidez to name a few. "[24], Seagal bodyguard and stuntman Steven Lambert, stated he was present and said that a confrontation did happen. Despite his martial arts credentials, LeBell did not immediately connect with wrestling audiences. 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. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Is MJF the Second Coming of CM Punk? The award couldnt be given to a better or greater person, that trained many motion pictures stuntmen in and out of the motion picture Industry. 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. Mr. LeBell died on Aug. 9 at his home in the Sherman Oaks neighborhood of Los Angeles. I was told that all the judo and karate people were not making any money at that time; they were starving, LeBell recalled in that interview. Gene LeBell was promoted to 9th degree in jujitsu and taihojutsu in 2000 by the United States Ju-Jitsu (USJJF) Ju Jitsu Federation. Bruce Lee - Wikipedia [23] LeBell's trainee Ronda Rousey, assured Seagal was the one lying and said: "If [Seagal] says anything bad about Gene to my face, I'd have to make him crap his pants a second time. Im proud to be a friend of yours for over 50 years. [4] LeBell appeared in three Elvis Presley movies as a minor character who starts a fight with the character played by Presley. LeBell was never a main-event star in wrestling and by even the most generous assessment wasnt exactly a crowd-pleaser in the ring. A tribute to the late martial artist, stuntman, actor and pro wrestler Gene LeBell. Could Gene LeBell, the 'real life Cliff Booth', beat up Bruce Lee? He was a Nevada and California Athletic Commission judge. Despite this, a man tried to stab LeBell on the way out and the latter had to be protected by the judokas and professional wrestlers who accompanied him. LeBell would win the match osaekomi where the practitioner pins the opponent for a specified amount of time earning the victory. Sandra Brumfield Avo, Gene is as it has been said amongst the fight world..is the Toughest Man. Those are just some of the names that Gene LeBell has trained with, not to mention the countless other celebrities and luminaries hes worked alongside during his decades-long careers as a pioneering mixed martial artist, a professional wrestler, and a stuntman. Two hundred of his friends, students, and family gathered at Hayastan MMA Academy in North.