Top 10 Kickboxing Detective Films

Description: Although centered around karate, the film's plot involves Daniel (Ralph Macchio) solving the mystery of the Cobra Kai dojo's bullying tactics and finding his own path to justice through martial arts.

Fact: Pat Morita, who played Mr. Miyagi, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: This cult classic features a young martial artist (Taimak) who must solve the mystery of the "glow" while navigating through a world of crime and corruption, using his kickboxing skills to fight for justice.

Fact: The film's soundtrack includes the hit song "The Glow" by Willie Hutch.

Description: While not strictly a detective film, 'Bloodsport' features Jean-Claude Van Damme as Frank Dux, a martial artist who uses his skills to solve personal mysteries and navigate through a clandestine fighting tournament. The film's blend of action and intrigue makes it a fitting inclusion.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the real-life story of Frank Dux, who claims to have won the Kumite, a secret full-contact martial arts tournament.

Description: This film follows Kurt Sloane (Jean-Claude Van Damme) as he seeks revenge for his brother's defeat in a kickboxing match. While not a detective story, the quest for justice and the investigation into the opponent's weaknesses add a detective-like element to the narrative.

Fact: The film features a cameo by real-life kickboxing champion Benny "The Jet" Urquidez.

Description: While primarily an action film, 'Hard Target' features Van Damme as a former Marine who becomes a detective of sorts, tracking down the hunters who are after him. His kickboxing skills come into play in the intense fight scenes.

Fact: The film was John Woo's first Hollywood directorial effort, bringing his signature style of action choreography.

Description: In this Jean-Claude Van Damme directed film, he plays a character who enters a mysterious martial arts tournament, uncovering secrets and facing off against various fighters. The quest for the truth behind the tournament adds a detective-like layer to the action.

Fact: Van Damme trained in various martial arts for this film, including Muay Thai, which is similar to kickboxing.

Description: This film, while not directly about kickboxing, involves a boxer (Mark Wahlberg) whose life is entangled with crime and personal investigation. The detective-like journey to understand his family dynamics and his own career path is compelling.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Micky Ward, a professional boxer from Massachusetts.

Description: This film follows a high school student who gets involved in underground fighting, uncovering a web of deceit and personal vendettas. The investigation into the fight club's operations adds a detective element to the story.

Fact: The film features real-life MMA fighters like Quinton "Rampage" Jackson and Rashad Evans.

Description: While more of a prison fight film, it involves Michael Jai White's character uncovering the truth behind the underground fighting ring, making it a detective-like journey through the world of kickboxing.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in Russia, adding an authentic backdrop to the story.

Description: This Hong Kong film, directed by Sammo Hung, features a young man (Yuen Biao) who returns home to solve the mystery of his father's death, using his martial arts skills, including kickboxing, to uncover the truth.

Fact: The film is known for its innovative fight choreography, blending various martial arts styles.