Bruce Lee was a walking encyclopedia of knowledge on martial arts. He was always passionate about exploring, learning, and perfecting the craft. Lee entered the world of cinema in 1964. He faced unprecedented challenges and hence made a tremendous effort to fine-tune his skills to suit the demands of Hollywood.

In this pursuit, he trained with ?The Godfather of Grappling,? LeBell, a legendary pro wrestler, stunt artist, and martial artist. Mathew Polly’s book on Bruce Lee, explains LeBell?s experiences with Lee and how the Little Dragon incorporated the moves in the 1972 movie Way of Dragon.

LeBell taught Bruce Lee judo and wrestling

The Hong Kong native was initially reluctant to change his combat style to fit the cinematic experience. Eventually, he got into a knowledge exchange deal with ‘Judo’ Gene LeBell. Lee taught Kung Fu in exchange for the art of judo and wrestling. ?I showed him some legitimate finishing holds, leg locks, arm locks,? LeBell stated in the book, titled Bruce Lee: A Life.

LaBell shared that the Enter the Dragon star had used one of his holds on Chuck Norris in the iconic battle. Interestingly, even before teaching Lee lessons in combat art, ‘the toughest man alive’ was assigned the critical task of calming Lee down. In connection with this, the book revealed the challenges stunt performers faced on the sets of the Little Dragon.

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His rapid movements and punches gave stuntmen a tough time. ?Bruce would hit you in ten different spots, and as a stuntman, you wouldn?t know whether to grab your jaw and say that hurt or your stomach,? LeBell recalled. How did he deal with it?

LeBell used a technique in wrestling

Bruce Lee was unstoppable on the sets. His passion for the art, blinded him from the difficulties others faced on the location. Despite efforts to ease his pace, he continued to shoot punches and kicks. When explanations didn?t help, LeBell approached with a technique called ?the swerve? in pro wrestling.

?It?s how far you can tease and get away with it,? LeBell explained. He would crack a joke or pick on Lee. Although it initially infuriated Lee, he loosened things up a little. With time the two also became friends.

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This story of Bruce Lee and LeBell is a classic portrayal of how artists must support one another for individual enrichment and collective growth.