- George Chung
- May 15, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 28, 2024
We asked some of the world's top martial artists who are known for their own kicking performance on and off the screen to list their choice for the greatest martial artist kickers ever to appear on the silver screen…because KICKERS KNOW KICKERS
In Alphabetical Order
Scott Adkins
Loren Avedon
Jackie Chan
Keith Cooke
Tony Jaa
Bruce Lee
Hwang Jang Lee
Jet Li
John Liu
Ken Lo
Ernie Reyes Jr.
Hwang in Shik
Jean Claude Van Dame
Michael Jai White
Donnie Yen
Contributors
George Chung, Chris Casamassa, Mike Chat, John Chung, Simon Rhee
Cynthia Rothrock, Carmichael Simon, Keith Vitali
George Chung, Publisher, Black Belt Magazine:
"I posed a question to several esteemed individuals with a range in age and generational taste. They were all renowned for their kicking prowess, guided by the belief that 'Game knows Game' – kickers know kickers. The responses I received were not just intriguing but brimming with passion and wisdom, spanning from the 1970s to the present day.
The selection criteria revolved around two key elements: flawless execution of technique and the ability to inspire. Watching these masters in action not only showcases impeccable technique but ignites a desire within ourselves to emulate their moves.
In my list one such individual is Hwang Jang Lee, whose legacy may have faded from memory for some. Yet, his contributions to martial arts cinema, particularly in films like "Snake in the Eagle's Shadow" and "No Retreat, No Surrender 2," exemplify pure old-school Tae Kwon Do kicking mastery.
Michael Jai White's repertoire astounds me with his range, seamlessly blending traditional karate with stunning kicking techniques that exude both cleanliness and power, earning him a well-deserved place on my list.
And let's not forget John Liu, whose films, often labeled as B Kung Fu flicks, boast a remarkable body of work and undeniable skill.
The list could extend endlessly, but for now, I'll spend my time reveling in the brilliance of these exceptional performers and those from my peers."
George Chung's List
Hwang Jang Lee
Michael Jai White
John Liu
Cynthia Rothrock
5-Time World Forms Champion, Film Star, and Black Belt Hall of Famer
Cynthia Rothrock:
"Whenever I see these three men on screen, I find myself amazed by the precision and power of their kicks. There are several scenes where I've watched each of them and I've thought to myself wow that was great technique they consistently leave a lasting impression on me with their kicking!"
Cynthia Rothrock's List
Scott Adkins
Donnie Yen
Keith Cooke
Keith Vitali
World Champion, Film Star, and Black Belt Hall of Famer
Keith Vitali:
"I’ve been fortunate to have worked with some of the best kickers in martial arts films including
Jackie Chan, Yuen Biao, Gary Daniels, Darren Shahlavi, Loren Avedon, Keith Cooke and so many others. I’ve also been extremely impressed watching on screen the great kicking skills of Bruce Lee, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Scott Atkins, Michael Jai White, Marko Zaror, Mark Dacascos and Andy Long, not to mention so many others."
Keith Vitali’s List:
Scott Adkins
Keith Cooke
Loren Avedon
Mike Chat
World Champion Forms and Weapons Champion and Hollywood Stuntman and Fight Coordinator
Mike Chat:
"My list includes the greats but one standout is Scott Adkins, who incorporates XMA tricking into his moves, no stuntman needed."
Mike Chat’s List:
Jet Li
Jean Claude Van Damme
Scott Adkins
Chris Casamassas
World Champion, Stuntman, Grand Master
Chris Casamassas:
"Van Damme showcased his kicking prowess in iconic films like "Bloodsport" and "Kickboxer." His ability to execute complex kicks with speed and agility sets him apart as one of the world's greatest kickers in film. Tony Jaa’s explosive kicking style, in movies like "Ong-Bak" and "The Protector," are a testament to his mastery of Muay Thai. His kicks are not only powerful but also seamlessly integrated into his fight choreography, earning him a spot in my book among the top kickers in film. Bruce Lee, regarded as one of the most influential martial artists of all time, Bruce Lee's lightning-fast kicks in films like "Enter the Dragon" and "Fist of Fury." Are second to none. He was my inspiration for acting to get into making action movies….His innovative approach to martial arts and his ability to blend different styles make him a timeless icon."
Chris Casamassa’s List
Bruce Lee
Jean Claude Van Damme
Tony Jaa
John Chung
World Forms Champion and Black Belt Hall of Fame
John Chung’s List:
Bruce Lee
Jackie Chan
Tony Jaa
Simon Rhee
Tae Kwon Do Master, Stuntman, and Taurus Award Winner
Simon Rhee:
"Scott Adkins for sure. I really enjoy some of the old school kickers from back in the day, that include films like Way of the Dragon and Drunken Master 2. One person in particular was Hwang In Shik who was very impressive and still holds up to modern standards. The other that must be on the list is Ken Lo."
Simon Rhee’s List:
Hwang In Shik
Ken Lo
Scott Adkins
Carmichael Simon
World Champion and Stuntman
Carmichael Simon former world form champion and pioneer tricking master.
Carmichael Simon’s List:
Bruce Lee
Jet Li
Ernie Reyes Jr.
