JRE #423 – Gene LeBell

This podcast features a conversation with legendary martial artist, Gene LeBell, delving into his remarkable career spanning decades of martial arts, stunt work, and professional wrestling. LeBell’s insights offer a unique perspective on the evolution of combat sports and the importance of embracing diverse martial arts disciplines. Provocative topics explore the ethics of fighting, the potential for brain injury, and the impact of performance-enhancing drugs. The podcast emphasizes the importance of perseverance, hard work, and respect for all martial arts styles.

Major Topics:

1. Gene LeBell’s Early Years in Martial Arts:

   • LeBell’s introduction to martial arts at a young age, starting with catch wrestling and boxing.
   • His decision to pursue Judo despite facing racism and discrimination in a predominantly Japanese dojo.
   • His commitment to training across multiple disciplines, recognizing the benefits of cross-training and versatility.
   • The importance of finding mentors who challenged him and pushed him to improve.

2. The First Sanctioned Mixed Martial Arts Fight:

   • LeBell’s groundbreaking fight against Milo Savage in 1963, a watershed moment in the history of mixed martial arts.
   • The context of the fight, challenging the dominance of boxing and showcasing the effectiveness of grappling styles.
   • The controversial nature of the fight, highlighting the evolving rules and perceptions of mixed martial arts.
   • The enduring impact of the fight, establishing LeBell as a founding father of modern MMA.

3. The Evolution of Martial Arts:

   • LeBell’s experiences working with martial arts legends like Bruce Lee, observing the changing landscape of martial arts.
   • The rise of MMA and the UFC, witnessing its evolution from a primitive concept to a global phenomenon.
   • The emergence of specialized techniques, like leg locks, once considered taboo in certain martial arts styles.
   • The ongoing debate over the “best” martial art style, emphasizing the need for versatility and adaptability.

4. The Ethics of Fighting and Brain Injury:

   • LeBell’s concerns about the potential for brain injury in combat sports, particularly from repeated strikes to the head.
   • The importance of recognizing the signs of concussion and the need for early intervention.
   • The responsibility of referees to protect fighters, recognizing the inherent dangers of the sport.
   • The ethical dilemma of continuing to fight when injuries might be causing long-term damage.

5. Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Martial Arts:

   • The increasing prevalence of performance-enhancing drugs in MMA, including testosterone replacement therapy.
   • The ethical debate surrounding the use of these drugs, particularly in a sport where physical prowess is paramount.
   • LeBell’s personal experiences with testosterone replacement therapy for non-competitive purposes.
   • The potential for abuse of these drugs, creating an uneven playing field and jeopardizing the integrity of the sport.

6. The Importance of Conditioning and Training:

   • LeBell’s emphasis on the importance of conditioning and training, highlighting the grueling regimens of martial arts legends like Carl Gotch.
   • The benefits of full-body movements, such as kettlebell training, for developing strength and functional fitness.
   • The potential for overtraining and injury, stressing the need for balance and rest.
   • The enduring importance of traditional martial arts training, emphasizing the development of discipline, respect, and self-control.

7. The Future of Mixed Martial Arts:

   • LeBell’s perspective on the future of MMA, seeing potential for growth and evolution in technique and strategy.
   • The need for greater diversity and versatility in fighters’ skill sets.
   • The importance of developing a more standardized set of rules across different organizations.
   • The continued rise of women’s MMA, recognizing the potential for more competitive and exciting fights.

8. LeBell’s Legacy and Influence:

   • LeBell’s impact on the development of mixed martial arts, emphasizing his pioneering role in cross-training and grappling.
   • His mentorship of countless fighters and martial artists, sharing his knowledge and experience.
   • His reputation as a skilled martial artist, stunt performer, and respected figure within the combat sports community.
   • His enduring legacy as a legend whose contributions to mixed martial arts continue to influence the sport today.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Along with grappling, you should learn boxing, tempo, show to contact Quando, Gang Fu, Graco, Roman Red wrestling, freestyle wrestling, motorcycle riding, oh, a little bit of everything.”
• “You learn from what they have to teach, then you just say, well, now that I know what, I’ll just tell everybody I invented it.”
• “He was just a little guy that put too much starch in my shirts once a week.”
• “The only initial investment you have in life is your body. If you don’t take care of it, nobody else will.”
• “Get it fixed. They can do it now. They can fix a lot of things. Yeah. There’s a lot of surgeries they can do. If you can afford it, get it fixed. If you can’t afford it, don’t fight.”