Top 10 Martial Artists in the World 2021

Martial arts encompass a range of fighting sports practiced for multiple purposes such as self-defense, fitness, relaxation, and confidence building. Individuals who engage in martial arts are commonly referred to as martial artists. Various forms of martial arts include punches (boxing, karate), kicks (taekwondo, kickboxing), and hold & throws (judo, wrestling).

There are two main classifications for the combination of these elements: “soft martial arts” and “hard martial arts.” Soft martial arts, such as judo and aikido, involve a less aggressive approach where the artist uses the opponent’s force to subdue them. On the other hand, hard martial arts like karate and kickboxing focus on defeating the opponent in a hostile manner. Martial art, derived from the Latin language, translates to “Art of Mars,” referring to the Roman god of war.

The world’s top 10 martial artists have achieved numerous accolades at the international level across a range of martial arts disciplines such as Judo and Taekwondo.

1. Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee, a Chinese American martial artist, is revered as one of the most influential figures in the martial arts world. Through his exceptional skill and captivating performances, he achieved unrivaled worldwide fame, securing the top position among martial artists. Not only renowned for his martial arts prowess, Lee was also celebrated as a film director, actor, and martial arts instructor. It was his father who first introduced him to the fundamentals of martial arts, setting him on the path to greatness. Lee’s groundbreaking contribution to the field was the development of “Jeet kune do,” a revolutionary technique that seamlessly blends elements of kung fu, fencing, and boxing. Rather than adhering to traditional martial arts, Lee shared this progressive method with all, revolutionizing the approach to martial arts training.

In addition to his Hong Kong and Hollywood film projects, he achieved immense global fame and became an integral part of numerous mainstream movies. His influence on the portrayal of Asians in American films was groundbreaking. Tragically, he passed away on July 23, 1973, as a result of brain swelling triggered by an allergic reaction to a headache medication. The mysterious nature of his death has fueled speculation among fans and historians.

2. Jackie Chan

Jackie Chan, renowned worldwide for his groundbreaking stunts, acrobatic fighting style, and innovative moves, stands as a highly esteemed and admired figure in the realm of cinema. His exceptional acting skills and mastery of stunts have garnered international acclaim, propelling him to widespread fame and establishing him as one of the greatest martial artists of our time.

He is an actor who executes demanding stunts without relying on a body double. Emulating the footsteps of martial arts legend Bruce Lee, he has earned immense admiration from the public. His remarkable achievements have been recognized through prestigious accolades, such as the lifetime achievement award from the Taurus World Stunt Awards and the Innovator Award from the American Choreography Awards.

Jackie Chan, the individual responsible for introducing Asian Martial arts into mainstream Hollywood cinema, is renowned worldwide for his philanthropic endeavors. He actively dedicates himself to improving the lives of those in need, generously donating money to various noble causes. In fact, in 2006, Forbes magazine recognized Jackie Chan as one of the ‘Top 10 Most Charitable Celebrities’.

3. Vidyut Jammwal

Vidyut Jammwal, a renowned Indian martial artist, rose to fame through his involvement in the Hindi film series ‘Commando.’ Primarily focused on Hindi action films, he has garnered global recognition for his exceptional acting skills and remarkable on-screen performances. Additionally, he excels in the ancient martial art form known as Kalaripayattu, showcasing his proficiency in this discipline.

He began his martial arts training at the young age of 4. The Indian media bestowed upon him the titles of ‘Sexiest Men in India’ and ‘New Age Action Hero’, which opened doors to countless global opportunities. He shared his innovative approach to this art by teaching its techniques to college girls and professionals. He gained significant recognition, being featured prominently on The Times of India’s ‘Most Desirable Men’ list in 2011 and recognized for his physique in Men’s Health Magazine, India in the same year. He is not only an exceptional actor but also a skilled martial artist.

4. Jet Li

Jet Li, hailing from Beijing, has emerged victorious in the national championship for the Beijing Wushu Team. His unparalleled skills have garnered him global recognition and admiration. A devoted practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, Jet Li displayed his determination at the tender age of 8 when he enrolled himself in the prestigious Wushu academy, renowned for its diverse martial art techniques and styles. Throughout his illustrious career, he has secured an impressive five gold medals in the esteemed Chinese championships. Jet Li’s signature style, heavily influenced by kickboxing, is distinguished by its formidable combination of power, speed, and control.

In addition to excelling as a martial artist, he has also proven himself as a talented actor. He gained immense recognition in China when he made his acting debut with the film ‘Shaolin Temple’ (1982). Not only has Jet Li made a name for himself in Chinese cinema, but he has also achieved success in French cinema with movies like ‘Kiss of the Dragon,’ ‘Unleashed,’ ‘The One,’ and ‘War.’ His incredible martial arts skills have made him a standout in epic films, propelling his career and opening up numerous opportunities in the world of cinema for him.

5. Steven Seagal

Steven Seagal, hailing from Michigan, is an accomplished martial artist, musician, actor, screenwriter, and producer. Not only does he excel in the realm of martial arts, but he also showcases his musical talents, with his songs being featured in notable movies such as ‘Fire Down Below’ and ‘Ticker.’ Initially beginning his career as a martial art instructor during his adult years, Seagal has gained worldwide recognition as one of the finest martial art instructors in existence.

Not only is Seagal a talented actor and aikido practitioner, but he is also skilled in playing the guitar. Sheriff Harry Lee was so impressed by Seagal’s abilities that he invited him to join the force during the 1980s. During his time as a member of the force, Seagal imparted his knowledge of martial arts, unarmed combat, and marksmanship to the deputies.

6. Wesley Snipes

At the age of 12, Wesley Snipes began his martial arts training, which would go on to shape his career as an American martial artist and film producer. Renowned as one of the world’s finest martial artists, Snipes holds a second-degree black belt in Hapkido and a fifth-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate. His expertise in these disciplines propelled him to the top ranks of martial artists globally. In 1986, at the age of 23, Snipes made his acting debut in the film “Wildcats,” marking the beginning of his successful career in the film industry.

Afterwards, he made numerous appearances in shows, music videos, and feature films, such as Martin Scorsese, Bad, and Streets of Gold, respectively. His exceptional performances in films like ‘New Jack City’ in 1991 propelled him to great fame and opened up endless opportunities in the world of cinema.

7. Jean Claude Van Damme

Jean Claude Van started his martial arts journey at the tender age of 10, when his father enrolled him in a Shotokan karate school. Throughout his training, he developed expertise in Shotokan Karate and Kickboxing, making him acknowledged as one of the most exceptional martial artists globally. By the time he turned 18, he had accomplished the significant feat of attaining a black belt in karate.

After winning the Mr. Belgium Bodybuilder title, his journey into weightlifting led to a remarkable transformation in his appearance, enhancing his attractiveness and paving the way for numerous accolades. Expanding his skillset, he delved into various martial arts disciplines like kickboxing and full-contact Karate. In 1996, he ventured into directing, making his mark with the martial arts film ‘The Quest’. His exceptional stunt work in martial arts action movies earned him immense recognition and praise.

8. Donnie Yen

Donnie Yen, hailing from Hong Kong, is a renowned martial artist who has achieved great success in the World Wushu Tournament multiple times. He is widely acknowledged as a top-tier action star, having garnered immense popularity for his skillful performances. In addition to his acting and martial arts abilities, Donnie has ventured into various roles behind the camera, including film directing, producing, action choreography, and stunt work. His expertise in martial arts choreography has established him as a prominent figure in the realm of action cinema.

Due to his exceptional teaching style and impressive skills, he has gained recognition as an exceptional martial arts choreographer. In 1984, his starring role in the film ‘Drunken Tai Chi’ marked his first foray into the film industry. He has since showcased his talents in the renowned ‘IP Man’ film series, which focuses on the life of the legendary master. This eponymous film was widely acclaimed in Hong Kong and China, achieving great success. Donnie has also been honored with numerous Hong Kong Film Awards for his outstanding action choreography.

9. Tony Jaa

Tony Jaa, a renowned Thai martial artist, is widely acknowledged as one of the most exceptional martial artists globally. Initially, Jaa honed his skills at a local temple school, and later, he received a scholarship to study Judo and Taekwondo at the esteemed Physical Education College in Khon Kaen, Thailand. His remarkable display of martial arts prowess propelled him to achieve widespread recognition and fame across the globe.

From a tender age, he immersed himself in martial arts films featuring his idols such as Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan. As time went by, he showcased his stunts in a movie, earning accolades from the audience. This propelled him to secure additional projects, ultimately dedicating over 14 years of his life as a distinguished stuntman in the film industry.

10. Johnny Tri Nguyen

At the age of 9, Johnny Tri Nguyen showcased his martial arts skills by competing in the U.S. National Team. Today, he is renowned as an action choreographer, film actor, martial artist, and stuntman primarily working in the film industry. His expertise in choreographing stunts has been sought after for numerous American action movies, while his acting talent has graced films both in the United States and Vietnam. It was through his remarkable stunt work in Hollywood blockbusters like Spider-Man 2 and Jarhead that Johnny Tri Nguyen gained widespread recognition and unlocked a world of endless possibilities.