Chris Leben: Life After Fighting MMA, UFC & Bareknuckle

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
MARTIAL ARTS GYMS FEATURED IN THIS DOCUMENTARY:
The Training Center www.trainingcentersd.com
The Arena thearenagym.com

[@rayhuifilms]

Hi everyone! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts. If you enjoyed this and would like to support my channel, please subscribe. Thank you.

[@juancruzbaldou1713]

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.

[@artsykilla]

Me too. The slurring was likely the alcohol, I'm so proud of him as a recovering addict myself.

[@klefthoofrobert787]

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.

[@JoeMama-dl3nh]

@@artsykilla and pain killers....

[@umdasu]

@@artsykilla right. this just proves the diaz brothers are actually blazed out their minds 24/7.

[@Beekind799]

@@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

[@Rainchild33082]

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.

[@chrisyasus8912]

Great post. It definitely set you. Stay safe and heart of a lion

[@roncoleman9502]

That is so great to hear. Thank you for sharing

[@poindextertunes]

thats beautiful man 🙏

[@thedonitalian1923]

That’s awesome man. Respect for you being a warrior

[@usedcarsalesman777]

He just spritz, pee and knowledge

[@TheSickjits]

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.

[@unclequack5445]

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.

[@jjjordan3881]

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.

[@poorhomie4121]

⁠@@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.

[@scottwilson1251]

​@@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.

[@Mohawks_and_Tomahawks]

Chris has had more personal growth and maturity gain than many people ever will, or even want. Respect.

[@luke5449]

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

[@randyscrafts8575]

How's retirement?

[@alfredomogavero5765]

Absolute Legend. Nothing but respect. You are an inspiration for all of us.

[@alking6633]

Legend ??? 🤣🤣🤣🤣What ??? Khabib, Chuck Liddel, Royce Gracie, these are LEGENDS.

[@roncoleman9502]

You are so right Alfredo I believe he is a legend also.

[@agigeorgiou5601]

I agree with alfredo also he’s an absolute legend

[@moronfromouterspace2972]

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...

[@steezuskryst7201]

Yes , a legend , you have no right to question, you should step down

[@codychickadee5095]

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!

[@jaimelopez9903]

Same

[@brianwhite6519]

I can tell you from firsthand experience he has a huge heart, and is a solid guy, and a great coach.

[@thedonitalian1923]

I used to love watching Chris’s fights in the UFC. One of the best brawlers in the game. Always brought the fire.

[@richsilva272]

This video genuinely made me feel happy for Chris

[@ec-uploads]

Thanks for the pic with my son today at X in Santee, Chris. I showed him your career highlights and this video. Respect.

[@potoole]

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.

[@kerrokerro4156]

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

[@paulietv2162]

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.

[@potoole]

@@paulietv2162 Quiet chump. The adults are speaking.

[@paulietv2162]

@@potoole Well, I guess compared to you he is intelligent

[@mr.brenman2132]

​@@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.

[@slickspacy5021]

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.

[@michaelhauser6440]

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?

[@elfinlewis1373]

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.

[@rayhuifilms]

Thank you! 🙏

[@DarylJones399]

Couldn't have said it better myself! 💯 👏

[@bzilla1090]

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.

[@RogerBJJ3511]

Such a beautifully made video. Good job dude. Chris looks great here. TUF 1 was a classic season and got me into MMA.

[@rayhuifilms]

Thank you!

[@topcover7390]

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.

[@the1truth420]

Huge Respect for him.

[@Tigger0067]

WOW that intro was powerful...I can relate... Chris all the best in recovery

[@boston312]

this man's evolution as a human being has been nothing but amazing.

[@HECKSTER69]

I remember watching the first season , he is such a great person . So happy for him he made it ....

[@casualobserver4810]

I wonder if he knows about that Bill Burr bit?

[@dickhitswater4836]

@@casualobserver4810 which one?

[@paulbradley1763]

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.

[@mikeriggs3891]

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.

[@rayhuifilms]

Thanks for watching! Happy to hear this piece brightened your day.

[@dontbeadrone]

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.

[@nillbill6639]

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.

[@JC-kh8wk]

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!

[@Eric_412]

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..

[@heybeartv3790]

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.

[@hedwardd]

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

[@armanikoji]

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!

[@clayabrams1058]

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 🙏

[@Jaymsie.]

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.

[@pricey467]

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.

[@mangoMango-ck3et]

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...

[@rune8525]

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. ❤️🥋

[@baptist1644]

This was great! So happy that life is turning out this way for Chris. Will look forward to seeing you Ref in the UFC.

[@Chronicstate187]

Dana owes him that. The brand owes him that for all the blood sweat n tears

[@jmara3741]

@@Chronicstate187 man why do people think they "deserve" anything???

[@Chronicstate187]

@@jmara3741i dont know but ufc fighters should presumably be more comfortable under refs who have had ufc experience.

[@Chronicstate187]

@@jmara3741 if ultimate fighter had any bearing on ufc's popularity then lebens role in that shouldnt be dismissed.

[@roncoleman9502]

@@Chronicstate187 AMEN brother I agree

[@rickypacheco5272]

He is the Stev-o of MMA

[@MadAcoustic1]

Hats off to Chris - He’s giving back, happy, and making his own way AND helping others.

[@charmkenpo]

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.

[@davidbowers3996]

Total respect for Chris . I wish him much success in the future. Talked the talk and walked the walk . 💪🥊🤟🙏

[@detroitpride7553]

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.

[@jeremyf1901]

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.

[@131601]

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.

[@rayhuifilms]

Thank you!

[@b5maddog]

Love this guy! So glad for him and his sobriety. Hope it continues. He has always been my FAVORITE fighter.

[@utubewillyman]

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.

[@LG-yp6on]

The greatest MMA video I have ever seen. Could not be more happier for Chris. What a motivational inspiration.

[@James225]

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.

[@markmcbride5900]

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

[@fidazzlegyroman]

Awesome video

[@rayhuifilms]

Thanks!

[@christianityisunstoppable4155]

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.

[@TL-oq1qy]

From watching the ultimate fighter almost 20 years ago it is beautiful to see his transformation. I wish him the best!

[@bnarapa]

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.

[@rayhuifilms]

Thank you brother!

[@surfcruzer]

Chris is a great example to me, he is full of courage.

[@davidjones8043]

"you pissed on my bed!!!" -"it was just a 'spritz', bro"!!! Never gonna forget that from TUF. Leben is a LEGEND

[@therealdeal89]

great job!

[@rayhuifilms]

Thank you!

[@emdblues]

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 :)

[@rayhuifilms]

Thank you!

[@BEASTBULLY]

Leben is my favorite fighter from the early 2000s. This guy was the first real killer....... Amazing being able to see him fight.

[@danielrealin7670]

His quote “putting the stamp on kids” is one of the coldest I’ve ever heard. Looking great Chris.

[@miderv2698]

legend!

[@drewcraig2914]

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.

[@j.p.1967]

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.

[@jin6000]

What an absolute boss. So happy he’s in a good place, he deserves it.

[@nunyabizness3882]

The crippler was always one of my favorites. That Terry Martin KO is still one of my favorite highlight reels

[@jerrywayne4100]

Chris, I admired your fighting. NOW, I admire you as a human. You are now one of my heroes. ❤

[@busterdougles]

Great doc! I’m so glad Chris is doing good. He really was one of the toughest fighters ever.

[@slippinjimmy9052]

Ufc legend what a character

[@joshalmighty1901]

IT TAKES A STRONG MAN TO SURVIVE CHANGE. YOUR GONNA BE ONE HELL OF A UFC REF BROTHER.

[@CornPop2]

Was always a big fan of Chris......now ima bigger fan. What a great man he's become. Stay up Chris

[@normandy1140]

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.

[@Xavrok]

Chris deserves to be in the UFC hall of fame, and hopefully they put him in as a fighter, ref, and a coach. You are amazing Chris and thankyou for everything you have done.

[@moreclips805]

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.

[@demonhunter-skydomeatlanti1746]

Chris deserves this documentary; well done..MMA HALL OF FAMER 👍🙏👏

[@J3DPRINTING]

love this channel thanks

[@Chris-tn9zx]

Chris leben was my favorite fighter growing up one tuff son of a gun loved his style

[@Dimzliveofficial]

thank you for making thiss

[@troyvermillion3649]

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.

[@matszombiekillb9223]

Great job Ray

[@guzvier]

Thanks for the upload. Good vid!

[@AAAskeet]

Nice job Ray

[@DavidJones-mj5ju]

Great piece!!

[@x3z3k1alx6]

From the guy we loved to hate on TUF, to the guy I hate knowing I ever hated him. Him and i have so much in common now years later. I see a lot of myself in him. I'm so proud of Chris. I hope we see him Reffing very soon! Dude deserves the world. We all make mistakes in life, but only a few finally learn from them and take responsibility for their actions. Respect. We love you Chris.

[@bobk2899]

Chris, I don't know if you remember me or not. But we used to train together at AMC. I was 20lbs heavier than you and arrogant as hell. And I can honestly say that you are truly the hardest hitting SOB that I have ever come across. I am so proud of you. So happy for all of your success. Bless you Chris and best wishes. Bob Kletzker

[@MichaelSpikes-pv6kl]

Great video

[@FamilyHomestead8]

This is AMAZING! THANK YOU!

[@SalvadorLosAngeles]

enjoyed watching that thank you

[@deanmarks247]

Thanks for sharing champ.

[@skeletonmakesgood]

Thank you Ray. Very well done! Bravo!

[@stephenpitner7369]

Chris Leben is one of my all time favorite MMA fighters. The guys a Legend, heavy hands and a chin made out of granite. I'm happy to see him doing so well.

[@jakeb3055]

Chris Leben is such a real dude. So happy to hear he is in a good place. May God bless you, man.

[@SocraticMic]

Always knew you were in there my man! Good for you!!

[@JGB1990]

This was fantastic

[@chadlugz1510]

Incredible story. Amazing video 🙏🏼

[@mrlowtide1]

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❤️‍🩹🤙🏻

[@SuperHeavyDave]

Great, great vid. Well done to all involved.

[@Oisdead]

Nice little update! Glad you're finding piece and able to enjoy the people around you

[@brandonr9918]

Legend journey. Great work OG.

[@thefourfourfour9512]

good production and thank you for letting us enjoy it.

[@slimelab1639]

Always been a Chris Leben fan and he is a legend too!

[@brianjacobs1241]

I remember Chris very well he was unstoppable gives me goose bumps I’m 39 always wanted to be a fighter lost my chance but watching Chris chuck tito all the originals was a blast back in the day

[@manonguyen4229]

Man, this was so well done....

[@ServiceAceStud]

Amazing video. Great audio, production.

[@Bergstorm]

How this guy so eloquent after so many blows to the head is amazing. Respect