Gene LeBell is a true combat sports pioneer and one of the most beloved figures in the world of martial arts, who is also widely credited for making grappling into such a popular combat sports discipline.
Last night, he passed away at age 89.
“Judo” Gene has been involved in a wide array of martial arts activities. For instance, he was a heavyweight and overall Amateur Athletic Union National Judo champion in 1994 and 1995, after which he transitioned to professional wrestling.
However, he hasn’t only been involved in professional wrestling, but has also been – for example – a Hollywood stuntman.
In more recent years, he became known as Ronda Rousey‘s cornerman. And the list of people he trained encompasses many other legendary figures; such as Muhammad Ali, Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, and Sugar Ray Robinson.
LeBell has also appeared in more than 1,000 (!) movies and was an author of 12 books.
Bas Rutten, former UFC champion and a Hall Of Famer, paid tribute to LeBell on social media:
We all heard the crazy stories, about Seagal… And that he was the first guy to fight MMA in a match against the Boxer Milo Savage in 1963 (I wasn’t even born). Still pulling wheelies on his motor cycle when he was like 84 years old and, if you go online, you find thousand more stories.
I have always loved Gene. Every single person I know loves Gene. And I am proud to say that we always had fun when we met, always cracking jokes.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
đź’Ą What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
đź’ Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
