screenshots / Kickboxer / 1989 Kings Road Entertainment

Martial Arts classic starring Jean-Claude Van Damme seeking revenge on the kickboxing champion (Michel Qissi) who paralyzed his brother (Dennis Alexio).

Van Damme and Qissi previously both appeared in the films Bloodsport (1988) and then later in Lionheart (1990).

The film is widely regarded as being the first movie to introduce Muay Thai (Thai kickboxing) to a global audience.

The film inspired three sequels (Kickboxer 2, Kickboxer 3, Kickboxer 4) starring actor and martial artist Sasha Mitchell in the role made famous by Jean-Claude Van Damme.

In 2024 Diamond Select Toys released a "Tournament" Gallery Figure Diorama which featured a 10" PVC sculpture of Jean-Claude Van Damme with wrapped fists and loincloth.

Filming locations included Bangkok, Thailand.