Gaining a nickname like ‘Judo’ doesn’t come easy, especially in the realm of combat, as Steven Seagal discovered firsthand.

The tale unfolds when Seagal, known as ‘Sensei,’ boldly declared that he could wriggle free from any hold imaginable.

However, his bravado was put to the test when he crossed paths with the formidable ‘Judo’ Gene Lebell.

It’s worth noting that Seagal had proven his mettle before, even during a crisis aboard the U.S. Navy battleship Missouri, where he served as a chef.

Legend has it that Seagal confidently asserted his ability to escape Gene Lebell’s clutches, likening himself to the escapologist Harry Houdini.

Gene, also known as ‘The Human Jaws of Life,’ accepted the challenge.

Following a brief struggle, Seagal not only lost consciousness but also experienced an embarrassing mishap, leaving no doubt about the outcome.

This anecdote has become ingrained in martial arts lore, akin to an unwelcome odor in a confined space.

Yet, the question remains: is it fact or fiction orchestrated by the judo community?

Ronda Rousey, a former UFC champion who trained under Lebell, dismissed Seagal’s denial of the incident as mere fabrication and insult towards Lebell’s credibility.

She humorously remarked that Seagal would face repercussions if he dared to speak ill of Lebell in her presence.

While the veracity of the event may be debated, Ron Balicki, a stuntman present during the showdown, offered his firsthand account to VikingSamurai on YouTube.

According to Balicki, a disagreement arose between Lebell and Seagal during a casual conversation about holds.

Lebell, a judo expert, attempted to demonstrate a technique, which led to a physical altercation initiated by Seagal.

As the scuffle intensified, Seagal allegedly resorted to a low blow, prompting Lebell to retaliate with a real hold.

Despite Balicki’s partial absence during the climax, his narrative sheds some light on the unfolding events.

Eventually, with the intervention of additional personnel, the conflict concluded without any signs of distressing aftermath.

For devoted followers of Lebell, this testimony may not lay the controversy to rest entirely.

However, for fans of the enigmatic Steven ‘Sensei’ Seagal, it offers a semblance of closure.

Nonetheless, as long as allegations persist regarding Seagal’s mishap during the altercation, the rumor will likely endure, casting a shadow over the legendary encounter.