The legendary Chinese-American mixed martial artist Bruce Lee would have turned 80 on November 27. Born in San Francisco, California, Lee has been one of the most influential figures in the history of mixed martial arts and combat sports. Often considered as an influence for many fighters across the world for his impeccable skills and fighting styles, Bruce Lee was a true legend in various forms of combat.
UFC president Dana White took to Twitter to wish the late legend and successful actor on his 80th birthday.
Happy 80th birthday @brucelee pic.twitter.com/Hptf1qEokL
— danawhite (@danawhite) November 27, 2020
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Bruce Lee was also a mixed martial arts instructor. He invented Jeet Kune Do, a hybrid martial art, drawing from various disciplines of self-defense. This paved the way for the modern-day escalation of mixed martial arts in general.
Although born in the States, Lee moved to his original home of Hong Kong at a very tender age and was brought up there with his family. He then, returned to the US at 18 to receive higher education. It was at this point of time he started teaching mixed martial arts professionally.
By this time he was also pursuing a career in the film industry. During the latter stages of his short, but legendary life, Lee appeared in famous movies like “The Way Of Dragon”, “The Big Boss”, “Fist Of Fury,” and many more.
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Besides acting and teaching mixed martial arts, he also had a knack for poetry and philosophy. He was a man of many talents and garnered respect wherever he stepped foot.
Bruce Lee died at the tender age of 33
On July 20, 1973, Lee, suffering from a headache, went to take a nap, but couldn’t wake up. After failed attempts at reviving him, his peers took him to the hospital where he was declared dead.
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Although Bruce Lee departed the earth at a relatively young age, he left behind an immense legacy in the world of martial arts and also in the film industry. A philosopher, martial arts instructor, a movie star, and a man of many more qualities, Bruce Lee was a true gift to humanity.
What is your favorite Bruce Lee quote? How well do you remember his MMA skills? Let us know in the comments below.