Ivan Gene LeBell (born October 9, 1932) 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 Tarantinos Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
Self
Film 2002
Turk
Film 1981
NYC bouncer
Film 1996
Mean Bones' Manager
Film 1978
Mommy's Henchman (uncredited)
Film 1973
MiB Bodyguard
Film 1994
2nd Bouncer
Film 1973
Film 1976
Film 1988
Religious Zealot (uncredited)
Film 1980
Cannery Guard
Film 1987
Film 1966
Red-Haired Waste Plant Worker Punching Rocky (uncredited)
Film 1995
Wrestling Referee
Film 1984
Vinnie
Film 1979
Ring Announcer
Film 1979
Ring Announcer (uncredited)
Film 1994
Train Passenger (uncredited)
Film 2004
Film 2020
Burly
Film 1992
Security Guard (uncredited)
Film 1995
Film 2019
Red Haired Serrano Gunman (uncredited)
Film 1992
The Boss
Film 2018
Self
Film 2012
Subway Passenger (uncredited)
Film 2002
(uncredited)
Film 1961
Hood
Film 1972
Drunken Biker (uncredited)
Film 1986
Leo (uncredited)
Film 1973
Reigning World Wrestling Champion (uncredited)
Film 1978
Nappa's Gang (as Gene LaBell)
Film 1974
Referee
Film 1991
Karate Instructor
Film 1970
Driving Instructor (uncredited)
Film 2004
Self
Film 2021
Old Stuntman
Film 2008
Union Guy
Tv 1981
Tv 1977
Tv 1981
Tarzan McGirk
Tv 1964
Tv 1962
Tv 1976
Old Man on Scooter
Tv 2003
Tv 1975
Mezron's Brother
Tv 1968
Tv 1979
Tv 1967
Referee
Tv 1992
Self
Tv 1974