Famous American Martial Artists

Bruce Lee was a pioneering Hong Kong-American martial artist, actor, and filmmaker who revolutionized the world of martial arts and cinema. He founded Jeet Kune Do, a philosophy that integrated various combat disciplines. Lee's impact on popular culture was immense, as he bridged the East-West divide and transformed the perception of Chinese people in American films. Through his iconic films and teachings, he inspired generations of martial artists and actors, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most influential figures in martial arts history.

Cung Le is a versatile professional with a successful career in various fields. He is known for his accomplishments as a retired mixed martial artist and kickboxer, having competed in organizations like Strikeforce and the UFC. Le has also excelled in the world of acting, starring in a variety of films alongside renowned actors. His impressive resume includes roles in action-packed movies such as Tekken, The Man with the Iron Fists, and Dragon Eyes. Overall, Cung Le has made a mark in both sports and entertainment industries.

Cynthia Rothrock is an accomplished American martial artist and actress renowned for her expertise in seven different martial arts styles. She transitioned from a successful competitive martial arts career to acting, making her debut in Hong Kong action films before starring in various martial arts and action movies throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Rothrock gained recognition for her roles in films such as Yes, Madam, No Retreat, No Surrender 2, and Martial Law series. She has received accolades, including induction into the International Sports Hall of Fame and the title of The Queen Of Martial Arts.

Jessica Lauren Graff is an American professional stunt woman, martial artist, and athletics-based television personality. She holds black belts in Taekwondo and Kung Fu, with training in five other martial arts styles. Graff is a championship pole vaulter and competitive gymnast. She gained recognition for her athletic achievements on the obstacle course show American Ninja Warrior, becoming the first woman to complete Stage 1 and Stage 2 in Las Vegas. Additionally, she was the first woman worldwide to finish Stage 2 in the Sasuke/Ninja Warrior franchise.

Jim Kelly was an accomplished American athlete, martial artist, and actor. Rising to fame in the early 1970s, he gained recognition for his martial arts skills and appeared in action films within the martial arts and blaxploitation genres. He starred in iconic films such as Enter the Dragon alongside Bruce Lee and had lead roles in movies like Black Belt Jones and Three the Hard Way. Kelly's on-screen presence and martial arts expertise solidified his legacy as a prominent figure in the world of action cinema.

Philip Ng Wan-lung is a Hong Kong-born American actor, martial artist, and action choreographer currently based in Hong Kong. With a notable presence in the film industry, Ng has made a name for himself through his exceptional skills in martial arts and action choreography. He has demonstrated versatility in his roles, portraying characters in various action-packed films. Ng's professional journey showcases his dedication to honing his craft and contributing to the world of martial arts cinema.

Robert Wall was an American actor and martial artist known for his work in the entertainment industry. He gained recognition for his martial arts skills and appeared in various films and television shows, often performing his own stunts. Wall was highly regarded for his expertise in martial arts, which he frequently showcased in action-packed roles. Throughout his career, he collaborated with renowned actors and directors, leaving a lasting impact on the world of entertainment with his versatile talents and dedication to his craft.

Keiko Fukuda was a Japanese-American martial artist who achieved significant milestones in the world of judo. As the highest-ranked female judoka in history, she held the prestigious ranks of 9th dan from the Kodokan and 10th dan from USA Judo and the United States Judo Federation. Fukuda was a pioneer for women in judo, being one of the first women promoted to 6th dan. She dedicated her professional life to teaching judo, both in Japan and the United States, leaving a lasting impact on the art until her passing in 2013.

Robin Shou is a versatile actor, martial artist, and stuntman with a successful career spanning both Hong Kong and American film industries. Starting as a stuntman in the late 1980s, Shou quickly rose to prominence with roles in various action films, showcasing his martial arts skills and on-screen presence. He gained international recognition for his portrayal of Liu Kang in the popular Mortal Kombat film series and has continued to impress audiences with his performances in a range of action and comedy films. Additionally, Shou has ventured into directing with the documentary Red Trousers, highlighting the lives of Hong Kong stuntmen.

Jeff Speakman is an American actor and martial artist proficient in American Kenpo and Japanese Gōjū-ryū, holding black belts in both disciplines. He served as the President of the International Kempo Federation from 2008 to 2018. Throughout his career, Speakman has established himself as a skilled practitioner and instructor in the martial arts world, showcasing his expertise through various performances and teachings. His dedication to the art of American Kenpo and Japanese Gōjū-ryū has solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the martial arts community.

Ed Parker was an influential American martial artist known for founding and codifying the art of American Kenpo. His professional life revolved around teaching and promoting martial arts, particularly American Kenpo, which he helped popularize through his teachings, writings, and demonstrations. Parker was dedicated to spreading his unique approach to self-defense and martial arts, influencing many students and practitioners around the world. His legacy continues to inspire and shape the practice of American Kenpo and martial arts in general.

Phillip Rhee is a multi-talented American martial artist, actor, director, screenwriter, and film producer. He is renowned for portraying Tommy Lee in the popular Best of the Best film series. Rhee's impressive martial arts skills, including expertise in Taekwondo, Hapkido, Wing Chun, and Boxing, have contributed to his success in both on-screen performances and behind the camera as a director and producer. His experience as a Taekwondo competitor also inspired the storyline for the original Best of the Best film.

Benson Henderson is a highly accomplished American former professional mixed martial artist known for his success in the Lightweight division for Bellator MMA. He has held titles as both a UFC Lightweight Champion and WEC Lightweight Champion, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest lightweight MMA fighters of all time. Henderson is recognized for his exceptional skill and determination in the octagon, with notable achievements that include being tied for the most UFC lightweight title defenses alongside other esteemed fighters in the sport.

Rener Gracie is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt instructor and coach known for his work in developing top UFC competitors, training celebrities, and advocating for police reform. As the co-owner and head instructor at Gracie University of jiu-jitsu in Torrance, California, he is recognized for his initiatives training police officers in jiu-jitsu self-defense through the Gracie Survival Tactics program. Gracie is also an inventor and entrepreneur, having founded Quikflip, a garment that converts into a backpack, which was featured on ABC's Shark Tank and named one of Time Magazine's best inventions in 2019.

JuJu Chan Szeto, also known as JuJu Chan, is a versatile professional with a background in martial arts, acting, singing, and writing. Starting her journey in martial arts at a young age, Chan later ventured into modeling before transitioning to the film industry. Her notable roles, such as Silver Dart Shi in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny" and Zan in "Wu Assassins," have garnered her widespread acclaim. Known as the "female Bruce Lee" by fans, Chan continues to showcase her talent and versatility through her various creative endeavors.

Joe Lewis was a renowned American martial artist and professional kickboxer known for his groundbreaking contributions to full contact karate and kickboxing in the United States. With a nickname "the Muhammad Ali of karate," he gained fame in the 1960s and 1970s for his exceptional fighting skills. Lewis won several karate tournaments and held titles such as "United States Heavyweight Kickboxing Champion" and "World Heavyweight Full Contact Karate Champion." He was praised as the greatest fighter in karate history and was cross-trained in various martial arts by his friend Bruce Lee.

Kane Kosugi is an accomplished American actor and martial artist of Japanese and Chinese descent. He began his career as a child actor in martial arts films alongside his father before gaining recognition in Japan for his role in Ninja Sentai Kakuranger. Kosugi has appeared in numerous films and TV series, including video game adaptations. He is known for competing on the obstacle challenge program Sasuke. With a versatile career spanning both Japanese and American media, Kosugi is a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Dan Inosanto is a highly respected American martial arts instructor and actor with expertise in various martial arts disciplines. He holds high-ranking belts in multiple martial arts and has studied a wide range of styles, including traditional Okinawan karate, Judo, Jujutsu, Kenpo, and Filipino martial arts. Inosanto played a key role in the promotion of Jeet Kune Do following Bruce Lee's passing, becoming a prominent figure in the martial arts community. He has trained numerous Hollywood actors and appeared in several films, showcasing his skills and knowledge in action sequences.

Roy Horan III was an American actor and martial artist known for his work in Hong Kong martial arts films. He portrayed memorable characters such as Lewis in the 1981 film Game of Death II and Priest/Russian in the 1978 film Snake in the Eagle's Shadow alongside Jackie Chan. Horan was a student of renowned martial artist Hwang Jang-lee, with whom he collaborated on multiple projects. His contributions to the genre left a lasting impact on martial arts cinema, earning him recognition among fans and peers alike.

Bren Foster is an accomplished Australian actor and martial artist, recognized for his work in The Last Ship on TNT. With black belts in taekwondo, hapkido, hwarangdo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, he demonstrates a high level of expertise in various martial arts disciplines. Foster's portrayal of characters in film and television showcases his versatility and dedication to his craft. His performance in The Last Ship has garnered praise from audiences and critics alike, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile actor in the entertainment industry.

Gerald Okamura is a versatile American talent known for his work as an actor, martial artist, and stuntman. With a career spanning decades, he has showcased his skills in various film and television projects. Okamura has earned a reputation for his expertise in martial arts and his ability to perform intricate stunts with precision. His contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his status as a respected figure in the world of action films and martial arts.

Takauki "Taky" Kimura was an accomplished American martial artist recognized for his close association with Bruce Lee. As one of Lee's top students and closest friends, Kimura was a certified instructor in Jun Fan Gung Fu, personally endorsed by Lee. He played a significant role in Lee's life, serving as the best man at his wedding and as a pallbearer at his funeral alongside other notable figures. Kimura's professional life was characterized by his dedication to martial arts and his impactful relationship with Bruce Lee.

Mike Moh is an accomplished American actor and martial artist of Korean descent. Known for his exceptional skills as a sixth degree black belt in American Taekwondo, he has portrayed iconic figures such as Bruce Lee in the film "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" and Ryu in the web series "Street Fighter: Assassin's Fist" and "Street Fighter: Resurrection." Moh has also showcased his talent on television, appearing in shows like "Empire" and playing Triton in "Inhumans." Additionally, he is the founder of Moh's Martial Arts in Waunakee, Wisconsin.

Jeff Imada is a highly skilled American martial artist, stuntman, and actor with extensive experience in the film industry. He is renowned for his work as a stunt performer in over 100 films and TV shows. Imada has also authored a significant book on the balisong, showcasing his expertise in weaponry. His training in various martial arts disciplines such as Jeet Kune Do, Eskrima, Tae Kwon Do, and others, highlights his versatility and proficiency in combat techniques.

Tamdan McCrory is an American professional mixed martial artist who has competed in the Middleweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. With a professional career dating back to 2006, McCrory has experience in organizations like Bellator MMA and the Cage Fury Fighting Championships. Known for his skills and accomplishments in the MMA world, McCrory has earned a reputation as a talented and dedicated fighter, showcasing his abilities in various high-profile competitions throughout his career.

James Yimm Lee was an American martial arts pioneer, teacher, author, and publisher. He was a mentor, teacher, and friend of Bruce Lee, being one of his personally certified 3rd rank instructors. James co-founded the Jun Fan Gung Fu Institute in Oakland and taught Jun Fan Gung Fu in Bruce's absence. He was well-known for his Iron Palm specialty and breaking bricks at demonstrations. James Lee was a prolific author, publishing some of the first martial arts books in English in America and helping Bruce Lee publish his first book.

Wally Jay was an accomplished American martial artist known for his expertise in jujutsu and judo. He dedicated his professional life to studying and teaching these martial arts. Jay founded the martial art Small Circle Jujitsu, which incorporated his innovative techniques and principles. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the martial arts community, earning recognition as a skilled instructor and practitioner. Jay's impact on the world of martial arts continues to be felt through his teachings and the legacy of Small Circle Jujitsu.

Kenny Florian is an American retired mixed martial artist and commentator who competed in the UFC. He served as an analyst for UFC on Fox and provided color commentary for UFC Fight Night and BattleBots. Known for his Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai background, Florian is recognized for his strategic approach to the sport and ability to finish opponents. He has competed in four different weight classes in the UFC and fought for the Lightweight and Featherweight Championships, establishing himself as one of the best fighters without a UFC title.

Taimak Guarriello is an American actor, martial artist, and stuntman best known for his iconic role as Leroy Green ("Bruce Leroy") in the 1985 martial arts film The Last Dragon. With a career spanning over decades, Taimak has established himself as a talented and versatile performer in the entertainment industry. His portrayal of Leroy Green has left a lasting impact on audiences and solidified his status as a prominent figure in martial arts cinema. Taimak continues to inspire and entertain audiences with his work on screen.

Teruyuki Okazaki was a highly respected figure in the world of Shotokan Karate, holding a tenth-degree black belt and serving as the founder and chief instructor of the International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF). He played a key role in the establishment of the Japan Karate Association's instructor training program alongside renowned figures such as Gichin Funakoshi and Masatoshi Nakayama. Okazaki's professional life was dedicated to advancing the practice and teaching of Shotokan Karate, leaving a lasting impact on the martial arts community.

Steven Ho is an accomplished American martial artist, stunt coordinator, and stuntman known for his pioneering influence in martial arts tricking and non-traditional forms. He popularized the 540 kick and the Hawkeye Kick in the mid-eighties, marking the beginning of the tricking movement. Ho has also garnered recognition for his stunt work in major films like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II and III, Mortal Kombat, and his role in choreographing fight scenes for various projects. Additionally, he co-founded an interior design firm and furniture line called Plush Home, Inc.

Carolena Carstens is a successful taekwondo practitioner who has represented Panama in various international competitions. She made history by becoming Panama's first Olympic taekwondo athlete and was the youngest participant at the 2012 Olympics. Throughout her career, she has competed in prestigious events such as the Pan American Championships, the Summer Olympics, and the World Taekwondo Championships. Carstens has showcased her skills and determination on the global stage, embodying resilience and sportsmanship in the face of tough competition.

Steve Cardenas is an accomplished American martial artist and actor, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Rocky DeSantos in the popular television series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. He later took on the role of the Blue Zeo Ranger in Power Rangers Zeo, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in the Power Rangers franchise. With a successful career in both martial arts and acting, Cardenas has garnered a dedicated following and continues to inspire fans with his talent and skill.

Mark Salzman is an American writer known for his memoir "Iron & Silk," detailing his experiences living in China as an English teacher. He studied Chinese Language and Literature at Yale University, where he graduated with honors. Salzman received literary awards for "Iron & Silk," which was later made into a film. He has continued to write fiction and nonfiction, exploring themes of struggle and personal growth. Salzman is also a cellist and has performed at various events. Additionally, he has been involved in documentary filmmaking and public speaking engagements.

Count Juan Raphael Dante was a prominent American martial artist in the 1960s and 1970s, known for his bold claims of being able to perform extraordinary feats, including Dim Mak. He gained recognition for his martial arts skills and flamboyant persona, attracting a following of students and fans. Count Dante's reputation was built on his mystique and purported abilities, which contributed to his controversial and enigmatic image within the martial arts community during that era.

Donn F. Draeger was a prominent American martial arts practitioner and teacher known for his contributions to the study and practice of Asian martial arts. He authored several influential books on the subject and played a key role in promoting international judo in both the United States and Japan. Draeger was also instrumental in legitimizing the academic study of martial arts, paving the way for its acceptance as a scholarly field of research. His work continues to inspire and educate martial arts enthusiasts worldwide.

Richard Machowicz was a highly skilled Navy SEAL renowned for his expertise in special operations. He gained recognition as the host of popular television shows like Future Weapons on Discovery Channel and Military Channel. Additionally, he became a member of Spike's show Deadliest Warrior, showcasing his tactical knowledge and combat prowess. Machowicz's professional life was characterized by his contributions to the media industry, where he shared his insights on military technology and combat strategies with a wide audience.

Chuck Jeffreys is a versatile American professional known for his work in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning from the late 1980s to 2016, he has excelled as an actor, stuntman, stunt coordinator, fight choreographer, and martial artist. Jeffreys has showcased his talent in over 24 films and television shows, including notable appearances in Aftershock, Lockdown, Superfights, and The Substitute 2: School's Out. His contributions extend to video games, such as his role as the Fire Warlord in Supreme Warrior. Jeffreys also served as the fight coordinator for the 2015 television series The Player.

Andy On is an American actor and martial artist. He has established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, known for his impressive martial arts skills and captivating performances on screen. With a successful career spanning various action films and television projects, On has garnered a strong fan base worldwide. His dedication to his craft and versatility as an actor have earned him critical acclaim and recognition as a talented artist in the realm of action cinema.

Scott Shaw is an accomplished American author, martial artist, and filmmaker known for his contributions to the entertainment industry. With a diverse skill set, he has established himself as a prolific writer, creating engaging content across various genres. As a martial artist, Scott Shaw has honed his expertise and shared his knowledge with others through teaching and practice. Additionally, his work as a filmmaker showcases his creativity and passion for storytelling, captivating audiences with his unique perspective and artistic vision.

Anthony Arnett is an accomplished American martial artist renowned for his expertise in Chinese martial arts, specifically Wing Chun. As a direct disciple of William Cheung, a prominent figure in Australian Wing Chun history, Arnett has established himself as a respected authority in the field. He is the founder of his own martial arts system, Arnett Sport Kung Fu. Arnett's dedication and skill have earned him recognition, including induction into the Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame, solidifying his reputation as a distinguished figure in the martial arts community.