Updated: November 14, 2025
Hey there, foodies and fight fans! If you’ve been scrolling TikTok lately, you’ve probably stumbled upon Keith Lee, the Vegas-based food critic who’s got over 16 million followers drooling over his honest reviews. But did you know this culinary detective has a brother who’s a legit UFC legend? Yep, we’re talking about Kevin Lee, the former lightweight contender who’s traded octagon gloves for chef’s whites. In this post, we’re diving into the story of Keith Lee and his brother – their shared roots, epic sibling vibes, and how they’re both killing it in totally different arenas. Stick around; it’s a tale of family, flavor, and a little friendly rivalry that’ll make you hungry for more.
Table of Contents
Who Is Keith Lee? From MMA Gyms to Viral Food Reviews
Let’s start with the man of the hour: Keith Lee. Born on October 4, 1996, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and raised in Detroit, Keith isn’t just a social media sensation – he’s got fighter’s blood in his veins. Back in 2017, he turned pro in mixed martial arts, stepping into the Bellator cage under the nickname “Killa.” Picture this: a young dude sparring with the best, dreaming of glory.
But life threw a curveball. After a few bouts, including a tough loss in 2021, Keith pivoted. He started posting TikTok videos to battle his public speaking anxiety, rating spots like hidden gem soul food joints and family-run BBQ shacks. Fast-forward to today, and his account’s exploded with 721 million+ likes. He prioritizes Black-owned and underrated eateries, often hitting cities like Atlanta and Houston. Oh, and as of March 2025, Keith and his wife Ronni are expecting baby number three – talk about a full plate!
What makes Keith so relatable? His reviews are raw, no-faves-given takes. He doesn’t chase clout; he chases flavor. And through it all, his family’s been his rock – especially that big bro who’s always had his back.
Meet Kevin Lee: The UFC Warrior Turned Restaurateur
Now, enter Kevin Lee, Keith’s older brother and the original family fighter. Born September 4, 1992, Kevin burst onto the UFC scene in 2014 like a Michigan storm. This guy’s record? Impressive – 12 wins in the lightweight division, including knockouts that had fans chanting his name. He even snagged an interim title shot against Tony Ferguson in 2017. Trained at spots like Xtreme Couture, Kevin was all grit, wrestling pedigree from Grand Valley State, and that signature trash-talk that kept the hype alive.
But 2021 brought retirement after some injury setbacks. Fast-forward to 2024, and Kevin’s back in the ring with the PFL, plotting a comeback while embracing new passions. In a recent MMA Fighting interview, he spilled on why he stepped away: “I was serious about calling it quits, but the fire’s still there.” And get this – he’s converted that fighter’s discipline into the kitchen. Enter “Braised by Kevin Lee,” a pop-up spot tucked inside Florida’s Yellow Green Farmers Market.
Kevin’s not leaning on his bro’s fame, either. He’s grinding from the ground up, serving up soulful dishes that scream home. Fans love how he’s honored his roots without shortcuts – a true champ in and out of the cage.
The Lee Brothers’ Unbreakable Bond: Fighters, Flavors, and Family First
What seals the deal on Keith Lee and his brother? That classic sibling magic mixed with mutual respect. Growing up in a house with three boys and a sister, these two were always scrapping – in the best way. Keith’s early MMA days? Kevin was right there, coaching him through drills and hyping his potential. “We went at it like dogs every day,” Keith once shared, laughing about their rivalries.
Even as paths diverged, the support never faded. When Keith blew up on TikTok, Kevin was beaming – no surprise, no jealousy. In a 2023 YouTube chat, Kevin gushed, “I’ve always known my little bro had that star quality.” And the looks? Uncanny. Fans joke they’re twins separated by a few years and fight styles.
Here’s a quick peek at their brotherly highlights in bullet points:
- Shared Training Roots: Both honed skills at Xtreme Couture; Kevin mentored Keith’s Bellator debut in 2018.
- Family Milestones: In 2023, both announced pregnancies – Kevin’s first, Keith’s second – celebrating with matching dad vibes.
- Faith and Growth: Kevin publicly embraced Islam in 2023, inspiring Keith’s own reflections on resilience.
- Sibling Rivalries Turned Wins: From backyard wrestles to cheering each other’s pivots – MMA to food for Keith, UFC to PFL and plates for Kevin.
It’s this genuine connection that makes their story pop. In a world of solo hustles, the Lees remind us: real power comes from lifting each other up.
A Secret Review That Went Viral: Keith Tries Kevin’s Kitchen
The internet lost it in June 2024 when Keith dropped a stealth review of his brother’s spot, “Braised by Kevin Lee.” No nepotism here – Keith sent a third party to grab the grub anonymously, keeping it 100% honest. For $38, he sampled short ribs with mashed potatoes, duck with gravy, and oxtails over rice.
His verdict? Thumbs way up. “Tender, flavorful – hits like a knockout punch,” Keith said on TikTok, sparking 10 million views overnight. Fans flooded comments: “Didn’t know Kevin was your bro! Miss him in UFC!” and “Respect to Kevin for building without the handout.” It highlighted their dynamic – supportive, but never soft. As of late 2025, the pop-up’s thriving, with Kevin teasing expansions. Brotherly love, served hot.
Conclusion: Why the Keith Lee Brother Story Inspires Us All
Wrapping this up, the tale of Keith Lee and his brother Kevin is more than MMA stats or Michelin dreams – it’s a blueprint for chasing passions while holding family tight. From Detroit streets to global stages, they’ve shown reinvention isn’t solo; it’s a tag-team effort. Whether you’re a food lover eyeing your next hidden gem or a fight fan rooting for underdogs, their journey screams: Stay true, support your squad, and flavor your legacy.
Got a favorite Lee moment? Drop it in the comments – and if you’re near Hollywood, FL, hit up Braised. Who’s next on your must-try list? Let’s chat!