The first MMA fight in America was between Judo Gene LeBell and Milo Savage. It took place on December 2, 1963, at the Los Angeles Sports Arena. This historic bout is often considered one of the earliest instances of mixed martial arts (MMA) competition, although the term "MMA" wasn't popularized until decades later.
Judo Gene LeBell, a skilled judoka and professional wrestler, was known for his grappling prowess and had an extensive background in various martial arts disciplines. Milo Savage, on the other hand, was a tough and durable boxer, making the matchup intriguing as it showcased the clash of different fighting styles.
The fight was promoted as a "Judo vs. Boxing" encounter, reflecting the diverse skill sets of the two competitors. At that time, there were minimal rules and regulations governing such contests, and the event aimed to determine which martial art was more effective in a real fighting scenario.
The LeBell vs. Savage match drew significant attention from both martial arts enthusiasts and the general public curious about this novel form of combat. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as spectators wondered how the contrasting styles would fare against each other.
As the fight unfolded, it became apparent that LeBell's grappling and judo techniques were the difference-makers. Despite Savage's boxing skills, LeBell managed to close the distance and take the fight to the ground. Once on the mat, LeBell's judo expertise came into play, and he eventually secured a submission victory over Savage.
The outcome of this contest had a lasting impact on the evolution of mixed martial arts. It demonstrated the effectiveness of well-rounded skills and the importance of versatility in a rapidly changing combat sports landscape. While the rules and structure of MMA would continue to evolve over the years, the LeBell vs. Savage fight marked a crucial moment in the sport's history, paving the way for the diverse and multidisciplinary approach that defines modern MMA.
