‘Judo’ Gene Lebell passes away at 89
“The Godfather of Grappling”, more popularly known as “Judo” Gene LeBell passed at 89-years-old on August 9, 2022.
Lebell, one of the most famed martial artists of all time, is widely credited with having popularized grappling in professional fighting.
In 2000, the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation (USJJF) promoted him to 9th Dan in jujitsu and taihojutsu. On August 7, 2004, the World Martial Arts Masters Association promoted LeBell to 10th Degree and in February 2005, he was promoted to 9th Dan in Traditional Judo by the USJJF, according to Lebell’s Wikipedia entry.
Lebell took on Boxer Milo Savage and defeated him with a choke in the fourth round of their fight on Dec. 2, 1963. It is believed to be the first true mixed martial arts bout.
Over the years, LeBell worked on over 1,000 films, TV shows and commercials as a stuntman or as an actor (including multiple appearances as himself).
He was friends with world champion judoka AnnMaria De Mars, and has known her daughter, Olympic judoka, and now retired mixed martial artist and former UFC champion turned professional wrestler, Ronda Rousey, since her birth. He has been seen in Rousey’s corner during matches and celebrated her victories with her.
RIP “Judo” Gene Lebell
