Gene LeBell

Gene LeBell (October 9, 1932 – August 9, 2022) was an American judoka, stunt performer, actor, and professional wrestler. Known as 'The Godfather of Grappling,' he played a significant role in popularizing grappling in professional fighting circles, laying the groundwork for modern mixed martial arts. LeBell's impressive career spanned over 1,000 films and TV shows, and he authored 12 books. Notably, in 2000, he received promotions to 9th dan in jujitsu and taihojutsu from the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation, and in 2004, he was promoted to 10th degree by the World Martial Arts Masters Association. LeBell was born in Los Angeles, California, and began training in catch wrestling and boxing at a young age, influenced by his mother, Aileen Eaton.