Kickboxer (1989) is a classic martial arts action film that solidified Jean-Claude Van Damme’s status as an international action star. Directed by Mark DiSalle and David Worth, the film tells the story of Kurt Sloane, a young martial artist who travels to Thailand with his older brother Eric, a U.S. kickboxing champion. Their trip takes a dark turn when Eric is brutally defeated and paralyzed by Tong Po, a ruthless Muay Thai fighter. Consumed by a desire for revenge and justice, Kurt decides to stay in Thailand and train in the ancient art of Muay Thai under the eccentric but wise master Xian Chow.

The film’s core revolves around themes of brotherhood, perseverance, and honor. Van Damme’s performance is marked by both physical intensity and emotional commitment, especially as his character evolves from a novice fighter to a disciplined warrior. His training sequences, including the now-iconic scene where he dances in a bar before getting into a fight, have become signature moments in his career. The final showdown between Kurt and Tong Po is filled with tension and brutal choreography, making it a standout climax that still resonates with fans of the genre.

Kickboxer was made on a modest budget but proved to be a box office success, grossing over $14 million in the U.S. alone. Its popularity led to multiple sequels, spin-offs, and a 2016 reboot titled Kickboxer: Vengeance, in which Van Damme returned in a mentor role. The original film remains a staple in 1980s action cinema, praised for its raw energy, stylized fight scenes, and the charismatic presence of Van Damme. For martial arts enthusiasts and fans of old-school action, Kickboxer continues to be a beloved and influential film in the genre.

Kickboxer (1989) is a martial arts action film directed by Mark DiSalle and David Worth, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme as Kurt Sloane. The story follows Kurt, who travels to Thailand with his brother Eric (Dennis Alexio), an American kickboxing champion, to challenge the undefeated Thai fighter Tong Po (Michel Qissi). During the match, Tong Po brutally defeats Eric, leaving him paralyzed. Determined to avenge his brother, Kurt seeks training in Muay Thai under the guidance of master Xian Chow (Dennis Chan) to confront Tong Po in a climactic showdown.​

The film was produced on a modest budget of $1.5 million and achieved a domestic box office gross of approximately $14.7 million . Kickboxer has since become a cult classic, noted for its intense fight sequences and Van Damme’s athletic performance. The movie’s success led to a franchise, including several sequels and a 2016 remake, Kickboxer: Vengeance, in which Van Damme returned as a mentor character