Fightbook MMA Exclusive: Leon Tan’s Custom C10: From Street Racing Roots to Show Stopping Build

For truck lover in Arizona Leon TanBuilding his Chevrolet C10 has been more than just a hobby has been a lifelong journey that was fed by family inspiration, determination and practical work. Raised around classic vehicles, especially C10s, it was obvious that Leon’s own project would be central to the iconic truck. What started when a street and drag has since evolved into a polished showpiece that reflects both his skills and passion for adapted cars.

A shadow tree starts

Leon’s first changes set the tone for his autodidactic approach. “The first adjustment was Salvage Vortec 350 heads that I learned to rebuild,” he recalls. “Then was a crane camera, then headers and OG FlowMaster 40S from Schijven.”

As a shadow boom engineer, Leon has always given priority to performance and reliability before aesthetics. “I first concentrate on reliability and performance. The appearance follows,” he explains.

The turning points of the Build

Of all the upgrades, one of the most impactful interior came. “The adapted bank chair was a day and day difference,” says Leon. “I am long, so the new sofa is low and leaned back for more legroom and comfort.”

Not every adjustment came simple. Finding the right wheels turned out to be one of his biggest challenges. “I went through a few wheels, from 15s to 26-inch rims. I felt that the 26s were more proportional. Now I have 22-inch Luxor inverted Lip 150-spoke wheels with three-spoke knocks to change it.”

Yet Leon is proud to do everything with his own hands. “My truck has never been to a store. I try to do all the work myself – from motor work, paint and body to interior.”

Future goals and SEMA -Dreams

For Leon, the ultimate goal is to bring his C10 to the big stage. “My dream adjustment is a full GSI chassis with tubular control arms and an air ride of half,” he shares. “Then Sema 2026.”

The truck, once a street/drag racer, is now fully devoted to showing life. The adapted blue paint and slender shaved bodywork are the first things that people notice, followed by the wheels that bind the build.

Advice for new builders

Leon offers advice to everyone who starts his first project:
“Have patience – A build takes time. Save time for quality components.” Buy once, cry once, “said a smart man. Do it yourself. You learn and save money.”

Find family with 4corners Mafia

After taking a short break from the car and truck scene, Leon was again committed through local shows. “Lionel and a few members asked if I would like to join 4 cm,” he says. “I accepted it, and it has been a trip since then.”

Now, as part of the 4cornersmafia Family, Leon continues to represent his roots while pushing his C10 to new heights – always with reliability, performance and creativity first.

Roberto Villa is the CEO, founder, executive writer and senior editor of Fightbook MMA. Has a passion for combat sports and is also a podcast host for sitting rings. He is also a former MMA hunter and kick boxer. He is also the most important photographer for the 4cornersmafia Car Club.