Who Is Gene LeBell? Age, Biography and Wiki
Gene LeBell was born on October 9, 1932, and sadly passed away in 2022. His contributions to the martial arts world remain influential, particularly in the realms of judo and wrestling. LeBell's unique career spanned several decades, during which he gained recognition not just as a martial artist but also as an actor and fight coordinator. His biography reflects a life dedicated to the promotion and teaching of martial arts, making him an iconic figure within the industry.
| Occupation | Martial Artist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 9, 1932 |
| Age | 89 Years |
| Birth Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 9 August, 2022 |
| Died Place | Sherman Oaks, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Gene LeBell's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Gene LeBell stood at an impressive height of 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) and weighed around 190 pounds (86 kg) throughout his competitive years. His physique was indicative of his strength and martial arts capabilities, enabling him to excel in various fighting disciplines.
Encouraged by Ed Parker, LeBell accepted the challenge and travelled to Salt Lake City to meet Beck. To his surprise, he learned his opponent would not be Beck but another boxer, journeyman Milo Savage, who LeBell claimed also had a background in amateur wrestling.
An agreement was reached for the match to last five rounds, each lasting three minutes. 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.
An additional stipulation prevented LeBell from attempting tackles or takedowns under the waist. In return, Savage offered to wear a judogi. On the day of the match, Savage appeared wearing a karategi instead, much tighter and harder to grab. The Savage camp claimed they did not know the difference.
According to LeBell and other sources, Savage's gloves allegedly contained brass knuckles and his gi was greased with vaseline to make gripping it more difficult. 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.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Gene LeBell was known to have a close-knit family. Over the years, various reports and tributes revealed his love for his family, though specific details about his romantic relationships or partners have remained largely private. While he did not publicly discuss a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife, it is known that he had a family that supported his endeavors in both martial arts and entertainment.
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, and who was the first woman to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
LeBell took up catch wrestling under Ed "Strangler" Lewis at age 7, and later moved to train in judo. After getting his black belt, he went to Japan to train in judo at the Kodokan.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Gene LeBell's net worth was estimated to be around $1 million. His wealth was amassed through a successful career in martial arts, acting, and various endorsements. His salary throughout his active years was likely influenced by the roles he took on in movies, as well as his contributions to wrestling and judo schools.
After returning to the United States, LeBell competed as a heavyweight. In 1954 and 1955, while only 22 years of age, he captured both the heavyweight and overall Amateur Athletic Union National Judo Championships. His very first match was against John Osako, one of the highest ranked judokas at the national level.
LeBell earned the upset win via an osaekomi. Afterward, attracted by better potential earnings and the family's legacy in the business, LeBell transitioned to professional wrestling. Despite his pedigree, he did not get over immediately with audiences but gradually became known for his martial arts background.
He eventually adopted the role as "policeman" for the promotion, maintaining law and order, especially during matches involving his brother Mike LeBell. Gene also wrestled under a black mask as The Hangman, teaming up with Roy Staggs.
Career, Business and Investments
Gene LeBell's career was diverse, encompassing martial arts instruction, stunt work, and acting. He gained fame in the wrestling industry, earning the nickname "The Godfather of Grappling." His expertise led him to train multiple celebrities and professional fighters. Additionally, LeBell was involved in various businesses related to martial arts, creating a legacy that inspired countless individuals to pursue their interests in fighting disciplines. He famously trained prominent fighters such as Ronda Rousey, solidifying his reputation in modern combat sports.
Following his combat sports career, LeBell, along with his brother Mike, ran the National Wrestling Alliance's Los Angeles territory, NWA Hollywood Wrestling, from 1968 to 1982. In June 1976, LeBell refereed the infamous boxing-versus-wrestling contest between Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki in Tokyo, Japan.
LeBell was selected from over 200 other applicants to referee the bout. He also continued to work in professional wrestling intermittently, wrestling his final match on August 29, 1981, against Peter Maivia for NWA Hollywood Wrestling.
Social Network
Even after his passing, Gene LeBell's influence is felt on various social networks among martial arts enthusiasts. His legacy is preserved in numerous online forums and communities dedicated to judo and wrestling, where fans and practitioners continue to share stories about his teachings and contributions to the martial arts scene.
LeBell has worked on over 1,000 films, TV shows and commercials as a stuntman or as an actor (including multiple appearances as himself). LeBell appeared in three Elvis Presley movies as a minor character who starts a fight with the character played by Presley.
In addition he also worked on the set of the Green Hornet TV show, in which he developed a friendship with Bruce Lee. Lee was especially interested in exploring grappling with help from him and exchanged ideas on various fighting techniques.
However, there has been no verifiable evidence that Bruce exchanged ideas with Gene since no one else can collaborate Gene's story other then himself. He would also guest star on a 1964 episode of The Munsters as professional wrestler "Tarzan McGirk."
Education
Gene LeBell's education is rooted in his extensive training in martial arts. He was a black belt in multiple disciplines, which underscored his dedication to learning and expanding his skill set. His relentless pursuit of knowledge in fighting techniques and instruction reflects the importance of discipline and education in martial arts.
In 2000, the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation (USJJF) promoted LeBell to 9th dan in jujitsu and taihojutsu. On August 7, 2004, the World Martial Arts Masters Association promoted him to 10th degree. In February 2005, the USJJF made him 9th dan in judo.
