Chris Leben: Life After Fighting MMA, UFC & Bareknuckle
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- Опубліковано 15 лис 2022
- Retired UFC fighter and The Ultimate Fighter 1's Chris Leben (@chrislebenmma) on life after his MMA fighting career as a coach, gym owner, referee and judge.
Directed, shot & edited by Ray Hui (@rayhuifilm)
MUSIC: share.epidemicsound.com/jsr9o2
MARTIAL ARTS GYMS FEATURED IN THIS DOCUMENTARY:
The Training Center www.trainingcentersd.com
The Arena thearenagym.com - Спорт
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When i clicked on the video i thought he was going to be punch drunk, judging by his brawling style and all the wars he's been into, but his speech is on point and he has matured a lot in every aspect. So happy for him.
Me too. The slurring was likely the alcohol, I'm so proud of him as a recovering addict myself.
Look at Overeem, man went to sleep over 20 times throughout his career (both kickboxing and MMA) and the guy speaks better english (as his second language) than most native english speakers :)) there are just some guys that don't suffer the same effects.
@@artsykilla and pain killers....
@@artsykilla right. this just proves the diaz brothers are actually blazed out their minds 24/7.
@@artsykilla at 28 i decided i was totally allergic to alcahol and clas a drugs ,thats how i coped ,i never went to meetings to discuss something i am allergic too,i never white knuckle ride ,i started training i am 61 now most of my pals died ,i say this to any alcaholic or drug addict ,no wonder you are all fucked up yopu are putting substances into your body what you are allergic too dah this has saved many lives ,no need to disvcuss allergies just know you have them ,no white knuckle ride,hey chris you are fuckin magnificent and donot let anyone say anything different i am so proud of you
I will never ever forget meeting Chris Leben. I've run into him a few times actually, but no meeting was more important than the first one. I was a young amateur getting ready to fight for the second time. Sitting downstairs waiting for my time at the Roseland. Chris noticed me pacing around all nervous. He gave me a short pep talk and let me know it was going to be alright. I won that fight, and I give a lot of credit to Chris for taking time out to give me a little chat. Chris Leben is a genuinely good dude.
Great post. It definitely set you. Stay safe and heart of a lion
That is so great to hear. Thank you for sharing
thats beautiful man 🙏
That’s awesome man. Respect for you being a warrior
He just spritz, pee and knowledge
Chris has had more personal growth and maturity gain than many people ever will, or even want.
Respect.
Man, we love you Chris. You ain’t gotta explain nothing to nobody. You’re a warrior through and through. You don’t have to justify it by these people. I’ve always been inspired by you from the TUF days and I’m still inspired by you. You’re a champion.
Think about what your saying sir he was an embarrassment even Dana said it Ok credit due him being a fighter but it ends there for me.
Dude wtf are u talking about? He changed his life and is saying this bc HE feels he has too. Ur opinion is just bs.
@@unclequack5445are you saying people don’t have the capacity to change? If you are (and you seem to be) almost every form of evidence available for use in the decision-making process would refute what you’re saying. Don’t rain on the man’s parade, he is evidently a different person than he was during his time in the UFC.
@@unclequack5445Thats ok, im sure Chris isn't proud of some of his past behaviors, but you have to move on from that shit. You can't let it effect your sobriety today, tmrw etc...i've struggled with opiates for 20+ years im around the same age as Chris. The guy is a fucking inspiration to people like me.
@@unclequack5445 What was said that was out of pocket? Why the need for re-thinking? Dude said he was a warrior and a champ. Why try to discredit his achievements if others find inspiration?
I'm 41 years old and I've watched Chris come up in a huge fan. I am a pro fighter that fights in the BKFC I have one more left and I can relate to Chris
How's retirement?
This video genuinely made me feel happy for Chris
Absolute Legend. Nothing but respect. You are an inspiration for all of us.
Legend ??? 🤣🤣🤣🤣What ??? Khabib, Chuck Liddel, Royce Gracie, these are LEGENDS.
You are so right Alfredo I believe he is a legend also.
I agree with alfredo also he’s an absolute legend
That word Legend..gets used way too much these days..constantly thrown out so casually...I hear Justin Fuckin Bieber's a Legend now too.....A man to be spoken about and revered during moonlit campfires for generations upon generations to come...
Yes , a legend , you have no right to question, you should step down
I've been clean for 2 years now.. took me years of rehab, hard work, dedication, and martial arts. MAD respect for you Leben, im 35 years old, and started boxing the same week i started recovery. it helped me so much, and i grew up watching you fight. It gives me hope, to see where you are now. Im so proud of you and what you've accomplished.
Hey, I’m 33 almost 34 and I started boxing/kickboxing 3 months ago so I’m about the age that you started. I was able to stop drinking for 3 weeks but am now drinking a pint of whiskey everyday after practice. Any advice?
Thanks for the pic with my son today at X in Santee, Chris. I showed him your career highlights and this video. Respect.
As a former athlete and a person in recovery I could not be more pleased listening to this mature articulate intelligent responsible example of an adult and a leader. Well done chris.
Loved watching you're fights ilve seen all of them. As a recovering addict clean for 10years. Makes me happy to see you doing so well much respect
When he was on TUF as a young man I saw all the hallmarks of a low IQ person, including the bullying, loud obnoxious behaviour, short attention span etc.
@@paulietv2162 Quiet chump. The adults are speaking.
@@potoole Well, I guess compared to you he is intelligent
@@paulietv2162 You meant to say compared to you. You just said he was a young man and they were getting those guys liquored-up in the TUF house. Obviously you aren't intelligent enough enough to know the effects of alcohol.
I can't help but feel a little emotional watching this, Chris has such a story and I believe a huge-ass heart. Love that guy!
Same
I can tell you from firsthand experience he has a huge heart, and is a solid guy, and a great coach.
Chris is and will always be my hero...he helped me find myself...as a fighter and as a human...I had a long battle with addiction and I looked up to him when there was nobody to look up to. Chris I wish you well in life. You probably won't see this but you made a difference bro, from the other end of the world.
WOW that intro was powerful...I can relate... Chris all the best in recovery
Such a beautifully made video. Good job dude.
Chris looks great here. TUF 1 was a classic season and got me into MMA.
Thank you!
This is what martial arts can, and will do to committed person. Chris Leben is a true budoka. I am so glad he found his way and inspiring so many people. He truly found his way and I highly repect him and the path he as walked is an inspiration for so many others to follow. ❤️🥋
This video made me so happy. When i stopped competing as an athlete, it was hard. Luckily I got into reffing and then coaching. I really felt like I got to complete the loop and repay my debt to my coach's. Bless you sir and thank you for this video. It means a lot to us to see how well you are still doing and how you have overcome addiction.
Thanks for watching! Happy to hear this piece brightened your day.
this man's evolution as a human being has been nothing but amazing.
I used to love watching Chris’s fights in the UFC. One of the best brawlers in the game. Always brought the fire.
Very high quality Documentary!
It's definitely on the short side of documentaries,
yet it doesn't appear empty or lack of contents.
It feels so real, not one bit is sensationalized,
something you would never get from mainstream big production documentaries.
Thank you! 🙏
Couldn't have said it better myself! 💯 👏
I remember watching the first season , he is such a great person . So happy for him he made it ....
I wonder if he knows about that Bill Burr bit?
@@casualobserver4810 which one?
What he says in the first 1:12 is what so many never realize and is absolutely critical to success.
Good for him and so much respect his way, so few people ever truly come to that realization and act upon it.
Huge Respect for him.
Love Chris. Was fortunate enough to have been his teammate at alliance for a short time and call him a friend. A journey filled with obstacles, substance abuse to this is amazing to see.
The world needs more Chris Leben's,,,especially for the younger generations,,he's been there, done that,,,full circle fighter,,now a coach,referee,giving it back,,cheers to him...
Powerful documentary. Chris is a repository of wisdom gained in the "school of hard knocks." I'm thrilled that he seems to have found peace and contentment.
My family and I are from Chile, and we have been fans of Chris since his Ultimate Fighter days when he was just a problematic kid with tons of heart and toughness. Now that I've seen this video, I feel so relieved and genuinely happy for him, both as a person and as the successful, productive man he has become. I immediately had to tell my parents about his success because I know they, like me, have been hoping that Chris achieves the success he deserves! God Bless.
haha thats beautiful. my parents were never into it but I've also been a fan since TUF and had a similar reaction to this video. thanks for sharing
Wow, Chris Leben , absolute legend of MMA..
Is so good that his life is on the right path, as he said, “the Sky is the limit for him”
he deserves all the success that come s his way..
Chris Liben has always been one of my favorite fighters ever since I was in my 20s I'm 40 now and watched this guy right up until the end of his career. His go forward style was always my favorite type of fighter to watch. Having struggled through alcohol and drug addiction myself and come out on the other side today , I feel a relation "outside the fighter world" to these fighters that are so open about their challenges, struggles and ways to find light.. Such a good dude. Always on the top of my list as a mixed martial artist. See you in the cage is a Ref bro.
You a warrior! You are one of my favorite fighters to watch! And your a power of example to so many people! God bless you Chris!
I’ve followed Chris’ career in real time since he debuted on the first season of TUF. I looked forward to every single fight he was scheduled for since. Love this dudes heart and fighting style. I can’t count how many times he made my jaw drop during his many scraps. I always rooted for him, even against fighters I really liked. He always seemed to trump anyone else he was pitted against for me. I always wanted him to win. You gotta give it up to these warriors that step in that cage under the bright lights for our entertainment. Very proud of his growth in every way. Bravo brother!
This man has grown so much! I watched him when he first appeared on our screens. He is a real live example of Never Give Up on yourself or anyone else for that matter. Very happy for this man. And well done to the production team.
Chris is such an awesome guy. I had the opportunity to train with him in San Diego a few years ago while getting ready for a fight. He went out of his way to spend time working with me individually after class, working drills, and giving advice that I have never forgotten before continuing with his own training. I'll never forget how awesome that was. It was an honor and I love to see him killing it 🙏
Hats off to Chris - He’s giving back, happy, and making his own way AND helping others.
So happy for Chris that he was able to grow and become the guy who helps others. All the respect in the world for this man.
I really hope they do more of these documentaries. It puts the spotlight back on the bones of this sport. Well done Chris, thank you for your continued contribution to the sport.
The greatest MMA video I have ever seen. Could not be more happier for Chris. What a motivational inspiration.
Great job by Ray Hui. Much respect To Chris. I always enjoyed him in the UFC. He’s come full circle and will be a life changing force for others through his journey.
Thank you!
This was great! So happy that life is turning out this way for Chris. Will look forward to seeing you Ref in the UFC.
Dana owes him that. The brand owes him that for all the blood sweat n tears
@@Chronicstate187 man why do people think they "deserve" anything???
@@jmara3741i dont know but ufc fighters should presumably be more comfortable under refs who have had ufc experience.
@@jmara3741 if ultimate fighter had any bearing on ufc's popularity then lebens role in that shouldnt be dismissed.
@@Chronicstate187 AMEN brother I agree
Total respect for Chris . I wish him much success in the future. Talked the talk and walked the walk . 💪🥊🤟🙏
Great doc! I’m so glad Chris is doing good. He really was one of the toughest fighters ever.
I loved watching him fight. He was a warrior. I'm so happy to hear he has successfully transitioned to this next phase. Good luck Chris.
This piece was done very well! Hats off to whomever produced i! Looking forward to seeing the success of Chris’s gym, and watching him ref more fights
Love this guy! So glad for him and his sobriety. Hope it continues. He has always been my FAVORITE fighter.
I almost started tearing up in that intro. Hearing true vulnerability like this is moving. I can’t imagine how many people he has helped already.
I’m grateful that I came across your channel. I’m 53 year old husband and father and boxed for my dad many years ago. One of his favorite sayings was ,” It’s not how you start but how you finish!” Happy to subscribe and follow your channel!!
I used to love watching Chris's fights. He had so much heart that he'd continue charging his opponent while taking hard punches to the face. It was like watching someone who was insane, but whom you had great respect for.
Thank you for making this! Chris will always be my favorite fighter, hands-down. For belts and sobriety dude is a straight up warrior. Much respect❤️🩹🤙🏻
A true tough guy not only in the octagon but in life, a ton of heart, god bless him, need more people like this in the world.
Awesome video
Thanks!
Excellent job Ray Hui! This is an inspirational documentary that focuses on a true legend of the sport. So happy for Chris’s success and for how he is utilizing his platform to mentor the younger generation.
Thank you brother!
Very happy to see him with clarity and a sense of peace....he has entertained fight fans for many years....wishing him a long and happy life
I have loved this dude for two decades and I am so very glad to see and hear him coherent and happy. He deserves a good life and it sounds like he's continuing to make a good life for the people he comes across. I have nothing but love and respect for Chris.
From watching the ultimate fighter almost 20 years ago it is beautiful to see his transformation. I wish him the best!
He is the Stev-o of MMA
Hard puncher, willing to trade makes for entertaining fights. One tough SOG. I loved watching his fights. Hope he’s healthy and stays healthy and is with us for a long time.
Chris is a great example to me, he is full of courage.
That's a great video, really nice shots. And Chris looks amazing, after all he's been through. I would've loved to be a part of of that gym :)
Thank you!
great job!
Thank you!
Ray, this was awesome! Definitely subbed to your channel. Looking forward to more quality work from you.
legend!
What an absolute boss. So happy he’s in a good place, he deserves it.
This video is so deep! Great job! Man what a great and special perspective you let us see. Thank you
His quote “putting the stamp on kids” is one of the coldest I’ve ever heard. Looking great Chris.
Thank you Ray. Very well done! Bravo!
These are great videos -please make more! So happy for Chris.
Fantastic video man! The musical score is phenomenal! Well done 🎉
Really well put together Doc. Chris is an absolute legend in the sport! Being able to witness his story from the TUF days and now seeing this side of him is truly a feel good story for the sport. I just subscribed and cant wait to watch your other Doc's.
Chris Leben is such a real dude. So happy to hear he is in a good place. May God bless you, man.
Nice little update! Glad you're finding piece and able to enjoy the people around you
Old time MMA fan since the mid 1990s - Chris Leben, you are warrior and inspiration to us - through all your ups and downs. Glad you are a referee & judge, but I wish more fighters would go that route. I am so happy to see your transformation into a mature and responsible ex-professional fighter. Amazing work. Mad respect, love, and appreciation for all you do & have done.
Chris was in so many wars for the fans, I always loved him as a fighter. He deserves the best, so happy to see he’s doing well and I hope to see him ref in the UFC someday
Loved this video. Keep interviewing more guys from his era and prior. Good job!
Excellent mini-doc! Everything about it is high quality!
Thanks Chris for taking the time. Your story was needed. The up and coming MMA talent have so much to gain from you. Continue your journey.
Above everything, it's good to see that he finally cleaned himself up and is at a point where his past no longer runs his life. He's admitted his shortcomings and still has a ways to go, but is leading a good lifestyle. Unfortunately a lot of young guys come up like he did. Maybe they didn't have a dad, they have angers issues, getting in trouble, etc. That's why boxing gyms and other gyms try to help these guys to keep them off the streets and out of trouble. It gives them a focus and it gives them a purpose.
Way to go Chris.
The sport needs more people like Leben. Awesome to see him doing well.
Thanks for the upload. Good vid!
Not what I expected at all when I clicked this. Theres hope for all of us. Happy to Chris appearing to have found some peace in his life. Wishing him all the best in this new path he’s on.
How can you not like this guy! He’s always been one my favorite fighters to watch, I wish you all the best in the next chapter Chris 👍🏻
Huge fan of yours as a fighter. Even bigger fan of what you’ve done since and the challenges you’ve faced and conquered. Great message!!
Chris deserves this documentary; well done..MMA HALL OF FAMER 👍🙏👏
good production and thank you for letting us enjoy it.
Leben is the man, so excited to see him back in action and moving forward. This is a great video of the legend Chris Leben, nicely done.
Fantastic video I honestly thought this was going to be a horrible story but so inspirational what a human being
Chris, I admired your fighting. NOW, I admire you as a human. You are now one of my heroes. ❤
Great video and story. Watched many of your fights, always 100% action. Big supporter. Wishing you the very best with your gym, as a coach, as a future UFC ref and life. 🙏
chris walked through fire and broke my heart every time. best wishes for a long and happy life mate.
Wow, this was actually really good. I'm glad Chris is healthy and doing good, I've been a fan since TUF.
Chris Leben, my favorite fighter of all time.. most entertaining, biggest heart, just all around most fun fighter to watch. Happy he’s in a good place right now in his life.
I remember watching the 1st season of UF. Great to see Chris healthy and mentally in a good place after a tough career. Thanks Chris for the entertainment, and stay on a good path.. Really inspirational video and did not expect this.. Ty
This is excellent. Thanks to Chris for sharing this.
It's always amazing to see the toughest guy in the room speaking truth and sensitivity.
This is AMAZING! THANK YOU!
Thanks for being so open. Im also a recovering addict. And i just want to tell you that you are a champion. You beat the hardest opponent in this life. Ourselves and addiction. love you bro
This was awesome. Positive and inspiring!
I was in Army flight school back in 2005. I started watching Ultimate Fighter. I rooted for Chris Leben, and I continue to root for him now.
Always knew you were in there my man! Good for you!!
Loved this piece. So happy to see Leben doing well!
Lebens come so far. Awesome to see him doing well. If we're honest, he was THE personality on TUF 1. Thanks for all the entertainment throughout the years.
IT TAKES A STRONG MAN TO SURVIVE CHANGE. YOUR GONNA BE ONE HELL OF A UFC REF BROTHER.
This was really awesome to see. Super proud of this guy.