Black Actors Who Are Highly Trained in Martial Arts or Professional Sports

Many of the most famous Black actors in Hollywood actually began their careers in professional sports or elite martial arts programs. These individuals often transition from the rigorous world of competitive athletics to the demanding environment of film and television sets. Their physical discipline and specialized training allow them to perform complex stunts and bring a unique authenticity to their action roles. This list highlights some of the most notable male performers who have successfully moved from the stadium or the dojo to the silver screen. Each of these men has used their athletic background to help define their careers in the entertainment industry.

Michael Jai White

Michael Jai White is a world renowned martial artist who holds black belts in eight different styles including Shotokan and Kyokushin. He began his training at a very young age and achieved his first black belt by the age of twelve. The actor is well known for his roles in ‘Spawn’ and ‘Black Dynamite’ where he performed many of his own stunts. His extensive knowledge of combat techniques has made him a staple in action cinema. He often choreographs fight sequences and trains other performers in various fighting disciplines.

Wesley Snipes

Wesley Snipes is a highly skilled practitioner of Shotokan Karate and Hapkido having trained since he was twelve years old. He earned a fifth degree black belt in Karate and has explored other styles such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Capoeira. His physical prowess became evident in the ‘Blade’ trilogy where his combat skills were a central part of the character. Snipes has consistently incorporated his martial arts background into his roles to provide authenticity to on screen fights. He remains one of the most recognizable action stars with legitimate fighting credentials.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews was a professional football player before he transitioned into a successful acting career. He played as a defensive end and linebacker in the NFL for teams like the Los Angeles Rams and the San Diego Chargers. His athletic build and high energy led him to roles in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and the ‘Expendables’ franchise. Crews frequently discusses his rigorous fitness routines and the discipline he learned from his time on the football field. He has become a prominent figure in both comedy and action due to his versatile physical presence.

Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers played professional football for the Oakland Raiders in the NFL and the BC Lions in the CFL. After retiring from sports he pursued acting and landed the iconic role of Apollo Creed in ‘Rocky’. His background as a pro athlete helped him portray the agility and power of a heavyweight boxing champion with great conviction. Weathers also appeared in ‘Predator’ and ‘The Mandalorian’ showcasing his enduring physical capabilities. His career served as a blueprint for many athletes looking to make the leap into Hollywood.

Jim Brown

Jim Brown is widely considered one of the greatest football players in history having dominated the NFL during his time with the Cleveland Browns. He shocked the sports world by retiring at the peak of his career to focus on acting in films like ‘The Dirty Dozen’. Brown was also an elite lacrosse and basketball player during his college years at Syracuse University. His imposing physical stature and natural charisma allowed him to take on tough guy roles in numerous action movies. He paved the way for future generations of Black athletes to find success in the film industry.

John David Washington

John David Washington played professional football in the United Football League and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the St Louis Rams. He transitioned to acting after an injury ended his football career and quickly earned acclaim for his role in ‘Ballers’. His athletic background was highly beneficial during the filming of the complex action sequences in ‘Tenet’. Washington has often stated that the discipline required for professional sports helped him handle the demands of lead acting roles. He continues to rise as a prominent figure in modern cinema while maintaining his athletic edge.

Fred Williamson

Fred Williamson earned the nickname The Hammer during his successful career as a defensive back in the NFL. He played for several teams including the Oakland Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs before moving into the world of film. Williamson became a major star during the blaxploitation era with roles in ‘Three the Hard Way’ and ‘Black Caesar’. He is also a black belt in several martial arts including Kenpo and Shotokan Karate. His combination of football toughness and martial arts skill made him a unique force in Hollywood.

Bernie Casey

Bernie Casey was a standout wide receiver in the NFL for the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams. He spent eight seasons in the league before retiring to pursue his passions for art and acting. Casey appeared in notable films such as ‘Never Say Never Again’ and ‘I’m Gonna Git You Sucka’. His athletic frame and commanding presence made him a natural fit for both dramatic and action oriented roles. He remained active in the arts throughout his life while being remembered for his dual success in sports and film.

John Amos

John Amos had a brief career in professional football before finding fame as an actor. He played for the Kansas City Chiefs and also spent time in the Continental Football League. Amos is best known for his roles in the sitcom ‘Good Times’ and the landmark miniseries ‘Roots’. His physical discipline from sports translated well to his demanding acting roles and long career in the industry. He has often been cited as an inspiration for his ability to reinvent himself after his time on the gridiron.

Rick Fox

Rick Fox is a former professional basketball player who won three NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. After retiring from the sport he began a full time career in acting with roles in shows like ‘Oz’ and ‘Greenleaf’. His height and athletic charisma transitioned smoothly to the small screen and feature films. Fox has also been involved in the competitive world of esports as an owner and advocate. He continues to work in various facets of the entertainment industry while drawing on his experiences in elite sports.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the legendary NBA center known for his record breaking scoring and multiple championships. He famously studied martial arts under Bruce Lee and appeared in the film ‘Game of Death’ to showcase his skills. His training in Jeet Kune Do helped him maintain his flexibility and longevity on the basketball court. Abdul-Jabbar has appeared in several movies and television shows including the classic comedy ‘Airplane!’. He remains a respected figure in both the sports world and the cultural landscape of Hollywood.

Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most dominant centers in the history of the NBA with four championship rings to his name. He has ventured into acting with starring roles in films like ‘Kazaam’ and ‘Steel’ during the height of his basketball career. Shaq is also known for his interest in mixed martial arts and has trained in various disciplines for many years. His massive frame and larger than life personality have made him a frequent guest star in numerous TV projects. He continues to be a major presence in entertainment through his work as an analyst and commercial spokesperson.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is an Academy Award winning actor who is also a black belt in Kenpo Karate. He began his training in martial arts as a way to stay physically active and disciplined. Whitaker has utilized his physical training in various roles throughout his career including the lead in ‘Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai’. His ability to blend quiet intensity with sudden physical action has become a hallmark of his performances. He continues to be one of the most respected actors in the industry with a wide range of dramatic skills.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba trained extensively in Muay Thai and kickboxing for a professional fight that was documented in a television series. He spent months in intensive training to prepare for a legitimate bout in the ring against an experienced opponent. The actor is well known for his roles in ‘The Wire’ and ‘Luther’ where he often displays a commanding physical presence. His dedication to the sport of kickboxing showed a level of commitment that goes beyond standard movie preparation. Elba remains an active figure in the fitness community while continuing his high profile acting career.

Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou is a twice Oscar nominated actor who has a background in Kung Fu and boxing. He moved to France from Benin and initially found work as a model before being discovered for the screen. Hounsou has showcased his physical abilities in action films such as ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Never Back Down’. His training in various combat disciplines allows him to perform complex stunts and fight choreography with ease. He is highly regarded for the physical authenticity he brings to his diverse range of characters.

Billy Blanks

Billy Blanks is a world class martial artist who attained the rank of seventh degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He was a member of the United States Karate team and won numerous international championships. Blanks is perhaps best known for creating the Tae Bo fitness program which combined martial arts with aerobic exercise. He also starred in several action movies such as ‘The Last Boy Scout’ and ‘King of the Kickboxers’. His contributions to both the fitness industry and action cinema have made him a global icon.

Taimak

Taimak is a martial artist and actor who became a cult sensation for his lead role in ‘The Last Dragon’. He holds black belts in several disciplines including Goju-ryu Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. His performance as Leroy Green demonstrated his legitimate fighting skills and helped popularize martial arts films in the eighties. Taimak has continued to teach martial arts and work in the entertainment industry as a choreographer and actor. He remains a beloved figure among fans of the martial arts genre.

Jim Kelly

Jim Kelly was a professional karate champion who rose to fame after starring alongside Bruce Lee in ‘Enter the Dragon’. He won several world titles in karate before transitioning into a career as an action movie star. Kelly became a prominent figure in the blaxploitation genre with films like ‘Black Belt Jones’ and ‘Three the Hard Way’. His unique style and legitimate fighting ability made him one of the first Black martial arts icons in cinema. He spent his later years teaching tennis but is forever remembered for his impact on martial arts film history.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is an acclaimed actor who played college basketball at Saint Mary’s College of California. He competed at the Division I level which requires an immense amount of dedication and physical discipline. Ali eventually decided to pursue acting and has since won two Academy Awards for his performances. His athletic background often contributes to the grace and control he exhibits on screen. He will soon bring his physical and dramatic talents to the lead role in ‘Blade’ for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Common

Common is a rapper and actor who was once a ball boy for the Chicago Bulls and played high school basketball at a high level. He has maintained his connection to the sport and often participates in celebrity games where he displays his skills. His acting career includes roles in ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘Suicide Squad’ where he performs intense action sequences. Common has also trained in various forms of physical conditioning to stay fit for his demanding tour and filming schedules. He continues to balance a successful career in music and film with his love for athletics.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick was a star football player at the University of Georgia and even tried out for the San Diego Chargers. Although his NFL dreams were cut short by an injury he brought that same competitive drive to his acting career. He is widely recognized for his leading role in the hit series ‘Power’ where his physical fitness was a key part of the character. Hardwick often credits his time on the football field for teaching him the resilience needed to succeed in Hollywood. He remains one of the most physically fit actors in the television industry today.

Winston Duke

Winston Duke is an actor known for his breakout role as M’Baku in ‘Black Panther’. He has a background in wrestling and football which he utilized to give his character a powerful and grounded presence. Duke often talks about the importance of physical storytelling and how his athletic training informs his movements. He also appeared in ‘Us’ and ‘Spenser Confidential’ where his size and agility were on full display. His background in sports helped him transition smoothly into the physically demanding world of superhero movies.

Nnamdi Asomugha

Nnamdi Asomugha was an elite cornerback in the NFL who played for the Oakland Raiders and the Philadelphia Eagles. He was widely considered one of the best defensive players in the league during his career. After retiring from football he moved into acting and producing with notable roles in ‘Crown Heights’ and ‘The Good Nurse’. His transition has been marked by a focus on dramatic roles that showcase his range beyond his athletic identity. Asomugha has received critical praise for his performances and continues to build a strong reputation in Hollywood.

Thomas Q. Jones

Thomas Q. Jones is a former NFL running back who played for teams like the Chicago Bears and the New York Jets. He ranks among the top all time rushers in the league which is a testament to his physical longevity and skill. Since retiring from the sport he has established himself as a versatile actor in shows like ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘Being Mary Jane’. Jones has successfully reinvented himself as a performer while maintaining the discipline he learned in professional sports. He is a prime example of an athlete finding a second calling in the creative arts.

Isaiah Mustafa

Isaiah Mustafa played professional football in the NFL and the NFL Europe league as a wide receiver. He was a member of the practice squads for several teams including the Tennessee Titans and the Seattle Seahawks. Mustafa gained national fame as the star of the Old Spice commercials before moving into more significant acting roles. He played a leading role in ‘It Chapter Two’ and has appeared in series like ‘Shadowhunters’. His athletic background is evident in his physical screen presence and the ease with which he handles action roles.

Bubba Smith

Bubba Smith was a legendary defensive end in the NFL who won a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Colts. He was known for his massive size and intimidating presence on the football field. After his athletic career he found a new life in Hollywood as a comedic actor in the ‘Police Academy’ movies. He portrayed the character Hightower who was famous for his immense strength and gentle nature. Smith remained a popular figure in entertainment until his passing and is remembered as a pioneer for athletes in film.

Bob Sapp

Bob Sapp is a former NFL player who found massive fame as a kickboxer and MMA fighter in Japan. His imposing physical presence led to roles in movies like ‘The Longest Yard’ and ‘Conan the Barbarian’. Sapp is known for his incredible size and strength which often lands him roles as a formidable antagonist. He has spent a significant portion of his career competing in combat sports while appearing in international film productions. His career highlights the crossover appeal of professional fighters in the action movie industry.

Mark Henry

Mark Henry is an Olympic weightlifter and a retired professional wrestler who was billed as The World’s Strongest Man. He represented the United States in the Olympic Games before embarking on a long and successful career in the WWE. Henry has appeared in several film projects including ‘MacGruber’ and various television cameos. His genuine strength and athletic history have made him a respected figure in the world of sports and entertainment. He continues to work in the wrestling industry as a mentor and scout for new talent.

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe was a highly ranked tennis player during his youth and played at the collegiate level for Virginia Commonwealth University. An injury prevented him from pursuing a professional tennis career but led him into modeling and eventually acting. He is well known for his roles in the series ‘Soul Food’ and ‘Station 19’ as well as the ‘Resident Evil’ franchise. Kodjoe has maintained an incredibly fit physique throughout his career due to his athletic roots. He remains a consistent presence in Hollywood with a reputation for being a versatile and disciplined performer.

Shemar Moore

Shemar Moore played baseball at the collegiate level while attending Santa Clara University on an athletic scholarship. His athletic background helped him maintain the physical stamina required for long running television roles. Moore is a household name due to his work on ‘The Young and the Restless’ and ‘Criminal Minds’. He currently stars in ‘S.W.A.T.’ where he performs many of his own tactical maneuvers and action sequences. His career demonstrates the benefits of a sports background in managing the rigors of a leading man in Hollywood.

Nate Parker

Nate Parker was an accomplished wrestler in both high school and college where he competed at the University of Oklahoma. His background in such a demanding sport gave him the mental and physical toughness to pursue a career in film. He is known for his roles in ‘The Great Debaters’ and ‘Beyond the Lights’. Parker also wrote directed and starred in ‘The Birth of a Nation’ showcasing his diverse talents in the industry. He has often credited wrestling for teaching him the discipline and focus necessary for his artistic achievements.

Ernie Hudson

Ernie Hudson has a background in boxing and served in the United States Marine Corps before finding success as an actor. He is most famous for playing Winston Zeddemore in the ‘Ghostbusters’ franchise. His physical presence and disciplined approach to his craft have allowed him to maintain a steady career for decades. Hudson has appeared in a wide variety of roles in both film and television including the series ‘Oz’. He remains a beloved and active figure in the entertainment world with a focus on both drama and action.

Wood Harris

Wood Harris is known for his intense performances and his background in boxing which he used for his role in ‘The Wire’. He played the legendary boxer in the film ‘Creed’ and its sequels where his physical preparation was evident. Harris often brings a gritty and realistic energy to his characters which is informed by his athletic interests. He has appeared in numerous acclaimed projects including ‘Remember the Titans’ and ‘Dredd’. His ability to portray complex and physically capable characters has made him a standout actor in his generation.

Mykelti Williamson

Mykelti Williamson is a versatile actor who has trained in various martial arts disciplines throughout his life. He is best known for his role as Bubba in ‘Forrest Gump’ but has a long history of action and dramatic work. Williamson showcased his physical skills in the series ‘Justified’ and the film ‘Con Air’. His training helps him bring a sense of realism to his action scenes and a disciplined approach to his acting. He continues to be a respected character actor with a career spanning several decades.

Darius McCrary

Darius McCrary is an actor and singer who has a significant background in martial arts having trained for many years. He is widely known for his role as Eddie Winslow on the long running sitcom ‘Family Matters’. McCrary has also appeared in action oriented projects and provided the voice for Jazz in the ‘Transformers’ movie. His martial arts training has been a personal passion that he occasionally brings to his professional work. He continues to work in the entertainment industry across music and television.

Michael Irvin

Michael Irvin is a Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver who won three Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys. Known as The Playmaker he was one of the most dominant and charismatic players of his era. Irvin successfully transitioned into acting with a memorable role in the remake of ‘The Longest Yard’. He has also become a prominent sports analyst and television personality on several networks. His large personality and athletic fame have made him a natural fit for the screen.

Deion Sanders

Deion Sanders is a rare athlete who excelled at the professional level in both the NFL and MLB. He is the only person to ever play in both a Super Bowl and a World Series. Sanders had a foray into acting with guest spots on various shows and his own reality series. He is currently a high profile college football coach but his legacy as an entertainer and athlete is firmly established. His flashy style and elite skills made him one of the most famous figures in American sports history.

Lawrence Taylor

Lawrence Taylor is widely considered one of the greatest defensive players to ever play in the NFL. He spent his entire career with the New York Giants and won two Super Bowls while redefining the linebacker position. Taylor has appeared in several films including ‘Any Given Sunday’ where he played a veteran football player. His intense and powerful presence on the field translated effectively to his roles in sports dramas. He remains a legendary figure in football history with a notable list of screen credits.

Rosey Grier

Rosey Grier was a prominent NFL defensive tackle and a member of the famous Fearsome Four for the Los Angeles Rams. After his football career he transitioned into acting and became a regular on television in the sixties and seventies. He is also known for his unusual hobby of needlepoint which he wrote a book about. Grier appeared in movies like ‘The Thing with Two Heads’ and various TV series like ‘Daniel Boone’. He was a multitalented individual who successfully balanced sports acting and community activism.

Tiki Barber

Tiki Barber was a standout running back for the New York Giants where he set numerous franchise records. After retiring from the NFL he pursued a career in broadcasting and acting. He has appeared in television shows and even made his Broadway debut in the musical ‘Kinky Boots’. Barber has remained a visible figure in the media world since his retirement from professional sports. His transition from the gridiron to the stage highlights his versatility as a performer.

Victor Cruz

Victor Cruz was a star wide receiver for the New York Giants who became famous for his salsa dance celebrations in the end zone. He helped the team win a Super Bowl and became a fan favorite due to his skill and personality. After retiring from football he moved into sports broadcasting and has taken on acting roles in series like ‘Ballers’. Cruz has also been a major figure in the fashion world and continues to expand his presence in entertainment. His charisma and athletic background have helped him find success after his playing days ended.

Michael Strahan

Michael Strahan is a Hall of Fame defensive end who spent his entire career with the New York Giants. He holds the record for the most sacks in a single NFL season and won a Super Bowl in his final year. Strahan has since become a major media personality as a co host on ‘Good Morning America’ and a sports analyst. He also starred in the short lived sitcom ‘Brothers’ and has made numerous cameos in films. His transition from elite athlete to daytime television star is one of the most successful in history.

Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne Johnson played college football at the University of Miami and briefly in the CFL before becoming a global superstar in professional wrestling. Known as The Rock he successfully transitioned into acting and is now one of the highest grossing stars in Hollywood. His athletic background is the foundation for his roles in massive franchises like ‘Fast and Furious’ and ‘Jumanji’. Johnson is famous for his incredible work ethic and physical conditioning which he maintains for every project. He continues to dominate the entertainment industry as an actor producer and entrepreneur.

Pooch Hall

Pooch Hall is a talented actor who was a standout athlete in both boxing and football before his career in Hollywood. He won a Golden Gloves championship as a teenager and competed in various sports throughout his school years. Hall is most famous for his role as Derwin Davis in the long running series ‘The Game’ where he played a professional football player. His real life experience in sports provided him with the physical insight needed for the role. He has continued to work in major television projects and films while staying active in the athletic community.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II was a competitive track and field athlete before he turned his attention to architecture and later acting. He competed as a hurdler at the University of California Berkeley which requires immense technical skill and physical conditioning. The actor rose to fame for his roles in ‘Aquaman’ and ‘Watchmen’ where his athletic physique was a notable asset. He has frequently mentioned how the discipline of training for track helped him prepare for the rigors of filming large scale action movies. His rapid ascent in Hollywood is a testament to his versatility and dedication.

Ray Fisher

Ray Fisher is an actor known for his role as Cyborg in ‘Justice League’ who was also a talented athlete in high school. He played football and was heavily involved in sports before discovering his passion for the theater. His transition into professional acting included a highly physical performance as Muhammad Ali in an off Broadway play. This role required him to undergo intense boxing training to accurately portray the legendary fighter. Fisher has continued to take on roles that demand a strong physical and emotional presence.

Charles Michael Davis

Charles Michael Davis was a professional model and a gifted athlete who excelled in multiple sports during his youth. He participated in track and field and football which helped him maintain an athletic build throughout his career. Davis is best known for his roles in ‘The Originals’ and ‘Younger’ where he often portrays charismatic and confident characters. His background in sports has contributed to his ability to handle the physical demands of long hours on television sets. He remains a prominent figure in the industry with a focus on both dramatic and lighthearted roles.

Tory Kittles

Tory Kittles is an actor who has often played roles that require a high degree of physical fitness and coordination. He has a background in athletics and has stayed dedicated to fitness throughout his long career in the entertainment industry. Kittles is recognized for his work in the series ‘Colony’ and ‘The Equalizer’ where he performs in numerous action sequences. His disciplined approach to his roles is often credited to his early interests in sports and physical training. He continues to be a steady presence in film and television with a reputation for physical and dramatic consistency.

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