Gene LeBell

About

Ivan Gene LeBell (October 9, 1932 – August 9, 2022) is an American martial artist, stunt performer, actor, and former professional wrestler. Nicknamed "the Godfather of Grappling", LeBell is widely credited with popularizing grappling in professional fighting circles, serving as a precursor to modern mixed martial arts. LeBell has also worked on over 1,000 films and TV shows and has authored 12 books. 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. LeBell served as an inspiration for the character of Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

Known for

The X-FilesSeries • 1993Married... with ChildrenSeries • 1987MacGyverSeries • 1985Falcon CrestSeries • 1981That '70s ShowSeries • 1998Magnum, P.I.Series • 1980IronsideSeries • 1967Knight RiderSeries • 1982TaxiSeries • 1978Strong MedicineSeries • 2000Family MattersSeries • 1989Quincy, M.E.Series • 1976T. J. HookerSeries • 1982Reno 911!Series • 2003The Beverly HillbilliesSeries • 1962The Wild Wild WestSeries • 1965Hart to HartSeries • 1979Fantasy IslandSeries • 1978The Incredible HulkSeries • 1977Simon & SimonSeries • 1981Burke's LawSeries • 1963The MunstersSeries • 1964Men in Black IIMovie • 2002Sledge Hammer!Series • 1986