The conversation often gravitated towards the infamous story involving Steven Seagal, a tale that has circulated in martial arts circles for years. When pressed about allegedly sleeping Seagal, LeBell displayed his characteristic diplomatic wit.
“If a guy soils himself, you can’t criticize him… Steven Seagal is a very outstanding martial artist.”
LeBell’s Bold Challenge: Ronda Rousey vs Steven Seagal
In one particularly memorable interview, LeBell didn’t hold back when discussing Seagal. He colorfully remarked,
“Steven Sagal, if brains were measured in Cadillacs, he’d be on Roll Escape.”
The discussion took an even more intriguing turn when LeBell addressed Ronda Rousey‘s potential matchup with Seagal.
“I would bet the farm and I’ve got a farm that he wouldn’t last a round with [Ronda Rousey]. She annihilate mutilate assassinates him”
Seagal’s Counter-Claims and Defense of Bruce Lee
In response to these claims, Seagal launched a scathing critique of LeBell’s credentials and reputation. During a clip, Seagal challenged LeBell’s martial arts background and his claims about defeating notable figures like Bruce Lee and Jim Brown.
“Gene LeBell is somebody who made his entire career lying about who he beat up… We had experts look in every Kodokan Budokan judo kite everywhere to see if this guy had one black belt we couldn’t find one”
Drawing from personal connections, Seagal referenced his close friendship with James Coburn and frequent interactions with Bruce Lee, asserting with absolute conviction: “I can tell you for sure Bruce is also the kind of guy that Gene LeBell did not choke out or beat up.”
The Legacy of Controversy
While LeBell emphasized the importance of humility in martial arts, stating “Everybody that tells the story is a hero of their own story… you can’t put your foot in your mouth if you keep it closed,” the controversy continues to spark debate within the martial arts community.
LeBell’s legacy extends beyond these disputes, including his work training world-class stars like Ronda Rousey and his influence on early MMA events. Meanwhile, Seagal’s passionate defense of martial arts legends like Bruce Lee and his challenges to LeBell’s credentials have added another layer to this complex narrative in martial arts history.
