Why This MMA Fighter Walked Away — And Built a Jiu-Jitsu School Instead

Why did he walk away from fighting — and what did he build instead?

This is the untold story of Professor Matt Sung Lee — a fighter who traded the cage for the classroom, and found something far more lasting.

From early MMA bouts in the late 90s to earning his black belt under Ricardo Liborio, Matt’s journey spans continents, cultures, and combat disciplines. But his greatest transformation came not in the ring — but in what he chose to pass on.

Now the founder of Ithaca BJJ in New York, Professor Matt is more than a black belt. He’s a mentor. A teacher. A builder of people.

This video is a tribute to that legacy.
Not just a life of discipline — but one of impact.

00:00 Intro
00:32 Early Inspirations
01:01 Mas Oyama (God Hand)
02:04 MMA Fight Footage
03:12 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
03:43 Opens First Gym
04:12 Liborio Black Belt
04:46 Teaching in Bali and Jakarta
06:18 Teaching in Riyadh
07:24 Ithaca BJJ
10:48 Outro