12 Fearless Martial Arts Legends Who Can Take Down Anyone On-Screen
Martial arts have long been an integral part of action films, captivating audiences with their intense choreography, gravity defying stunts and larger than life characters. From the graceful movements of tai chi to the raw power of jiu-jitsu, martial artists have become legends both on and off the screen. In 2025, these fearless warriors continue to dominate the world of film with performances that leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Some are seasoned veterans, while others are rising stars, but all of them possess an unparalleled dedication to their craft and the ability to make anything seem possible on screen.
Donnie Yen – Raging Fire, 2025
One of the most versatile martial artists in the world, Donnie Yen is a powerhouse in the action film industry. Known for his portrayal of Ip Man in the Ip Man series, Yen’s fight sequences are a masterclass in fluidity and power. In Raging Fire, his portrayal of a rogue cop navigating the dangerous world of crime and justice showcases his martial arts expertise alongside his emotional depth. His ability to bring such intensity to his fight scenes is why he is still one of the most electrifying performers in the business.
Tony Jaa – Muay Thai Fury, 2025
Tony Jaa redefined action cinema with his incredible Muay Thai skills, and in Muay Thai Fury, he delivers a performance that will leave audiences breathless. Known for performing his own stunts without the aid of CGI or wires, Jaa’s brutal fight choreography is a testament to his dedication to martial arts. His fluidity in movement, combined with his visceral power, brings a level of realism to his fight scenes that few can replicate.
Keanu Reeves – John Wick: Chapter 5, 2025
Keanu Reeves has elevated his role as the iconic assassin John Wick to legendary status. Trained in martial arts, jiu-jitsu, and gunplay, Reeves’ commitment to realism in fight choreography is unmatched. John Wick: Chapter 5 promises even more breathtaking choreography as Wick continues his revenge fueled journey. His emotional depth combined with his martial arts prowess makes him a fan favorite and one of the most formidable action stars to grace the screen.
Iko Uwais – The Raid: Retaliation, 2025
Iko Uwais is a name synonymous with hardcore action. The Raid: Retaliation is set to continue his legacy as one of the most dangerous martial artists in film. Known for his incredible silat fighting techniques, Uwais blends brutal, high impact action with a level of grace that is rare in martial arts cinema. His dedication to perfection and his physical commitment to every fight scene has made him a global martial arts icon.
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Michelle Yeoh – The Last Dragon, 2025
A true legend of martial arts cinema, Michelle Yeoh is a force to be reckoned with. From Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon to Tomorrow Never Dies, Yeoh has been mesmerizing audiences with her graceful yet powerful performances for decades. In The Last Dragon, Yeoh takes on a role that requires not just martial arts expertise but also emotional depth, proving once again that she is one of the most skilled and versatile martial artists to ever grace the screen.
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Scott Adkins – Undisputed V, 2025
Scott Adkins has earned his place among the martial arts legends, known for his phenomenal athleticism and fight choreography in films like Undisputed, The Expendables 2, and Accident Man. In Undisputed V, he returns as the unstoppable Yuri Boyka, delivering brutal, high stakes fights with a combination of athleticism and technique that are second to none. Adkins continues to showcase his incredible physicality and commitment to perfecting every move on screen.
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Wu Jing – Wolf Warrior III, 2025
Wu Jing has become one of the top martial arts stars in China, delivering high-octane action scenes with his seamless blend of martial arts and military tactics. Known for his work in Wolf Warrior II and The Battle at Lake Changjin, Wu’s fighting style is a mix of traditional Chinese martial arts and modern combat techniques. His precision and focus make him one of the most powerful screen presences in the martial arts world.
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Jackie Chan – Skiptrace 2, 2025
Jackie Chan’s name is synonymous with martial arts and action-comedy, and Skiptrace 2 marks another thrilling chapter in his career. Known for his innovative choreography and ability to perform his own stunts, Chan combines martial arts with his signature humor and charisma. Even in his 60s, Chan continues to inspire audiences with his boundless energy and dedication to delivering jaw dropping stunts.
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Adriana Lima – Deadly Beauty, 2025
Former Victoria’s Secret model Adriana Lima may be known for her work on the runway, but she is quickly making a name for herself in the action world. In Deadly Beauty, Lima proves that beauty and power can go hand in hand as she performs her own martial arts stunts. Her impressive training in jiu-jitsu and kickboxing has translated into stunning fight choreography that has earned her a spot as one of the most exciting new action stars.
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Hiroyuki Sanada – The Last Samurai II, 2025
Veteran actor Hiroyuki Sanada has been an action star for decades, with standout roles in films like The Last Samurai, 47 Ronin and The Wolverine. His new role in The Last Samurai II proves that age is just a number as he returns to the role of a master samurai, bringing with him years of martial arts training and an unparalleled presence. Sanada’s performances are often marked by grace, discipline and a quiet intensity that makes every fight scene memorable.
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Zhang Ziyi – Dragon Sword, 2025
Zhang Ziyi, one of China’s biggest stars, has captivated audiences with her role in films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and House of Flying Daggers. In Dragon Sword, she takes on a role that requires her to blend precision, strength and grace in her martial arts choreography. With years of training in traditional Chinese martial arts, Ziyi remains one of the most skilled and mesmerizing martial artists on screen today.
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Ronda Rousey – Fury Road, 2025
Ronda Rousey’s journey from MMA champion to Hollywood action star has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for her judo expertise, Rousey brings a unique blend of power and technique to her roles in films like Furious 7 and The Expendables 3. In Fury Road, she brings her martial arts skills to the forefront in a high octane action film, proving that she is one of the most dangerous women on screen today.
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These 12 martial arts legends prove that the art of combat is not just about strength; it is about passion, precision and the drive to perfect every movement. Whether they are delivering bone crushing blows or displaying incredible grace, these stars have earned their place in martial arts history and continue to redefine what it means to be a screen legend in 2025.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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