People who did and doing martial arts are often called artists. These artists are people who are very passionate about martial arts. As well as in training and teaching its different forms. As the years went by, some of the so-called martial arts artists have become very popular because of their unique skills and personalities. Also, some of them have been given many opportunities other than doing martial arts. Curious to know the most famous people in martial arts? Let us name a few of them!
Famous People of Martial Arts: Bruce Lee
One person always first comes to mind when talking about Chinese arts and sports. Bruce Lee, or Lee Jun Fan in his Chinese name, is the person in question. An American Born Chinese actor who was best known for his skills in martial arts.
Despite living a short life, Bruce Lee still managed to influence the world with his extraordinary skills in Chinese martial arts. He was considered one of the greatest martial artists of all time. That is because he developed his own unique style of martial arts called Jeet Kune Do. Basically, it’s a philosophy based on wing chun kung fu. It is also influenced by Lee’s Taoist philosophy in personal life.
Despite living a short life, Bruce Lee still managed to influence the world, not just with his extraordinary skills in Chinese martial arts. But also with his philosophies in life. One quote from him that is very popular and always be remembered by people is “Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless — like water. Be water, my friend.”
Jackie Chan
If there is a person who has other skills besides martial arts, that is none other than Jackie Chan. He was born in Hong Kong and began his acting career as a child. Jackie Chan’s acting career rose to fame during the 1970s and 1980s. His films are most popular and successful because of his acrobatic skills in martial arts. And of course, because of his comedic skills.
Jackie Chan is considered one of the most famous people in martiall arts not just because of his skills in martial arts. But also with his personality. He is also very well known in other aspects like being a film producer, director, stunt performer, and even a singer.
With his overflowing skills and passion for martial arts, he is widely recognized as a pioneering figure in martial arts. And also one of the most influential people who introduced Chinese martial arts to a global audience.
Jet Li
An actor just like Jackie Chan, Jet Li was also one of the most famous people in martial arts. It is because of his numerous film portrayals that showcased his skill and talent in martial arts. Jet Li started practicing Wushu at the age of eight. After that, he became a national champion and became a famous actor in the early 1980.
What made Jet Li famous is his superlative martial arts skills. And also for his portrayal of virtuous, humble heroes. As a retired Wushu champion, he is also one of the most well-known and iconic figures in the modern martial arts movie genre.
Donnie Yen
Donnie Yen is also an actor from Hong Kong. He started practicing martial arts at a very young age and went to several national championships. This led him to enter the film industry and became very well known for his movie genres of wuxia and martial arts.
One thing that made him famous globally is his appearance in Hollywood and Asian films like the IP Man film series, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny, Blade II, and Hero.
A martial arts actor who became a recognizable and respected figure in martial arts is definitely what made Donnie Yen famous people of martial arts. And it is all thanks to his skills and talent.
Manny Pacquiao
Regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time. It is none other than Manny Pacquaio. Who does not even know this man? If you come to the Philippines and ask people about him, they will definitely tell you that every time he has time, the Philippines become a quiet country. As almost all of the people are inside their houses. Watching his match.
What made Manny Pacquiao famous all over the world is of course his skills. His humble beginnings also gained a lot of admiration from people all over the world. He is indeed one of the most famous people in martial arts also because of his humble and well-respected figure. A strong fighter in the boxing ring but just like a normal person outside the ring. That is how people describe him in his home country.
An Inspiration to Martial Arts
In this digital age that we have, following famous martial artists is mostly done. In mainstream social media accounts. Like YouTube. But the above-mentioned famous people of martial arts are indeed very inspiring. Although most of their audience was the old ones, today’s generation should still know about them. One thing that they have in common is their love and passion for art. Also, their dedication to martial arts has led them in having bigger opportunities. Something that people can learn if they really want to pursue martial arts.