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Martial arts have seen plenty of success in the film industry. Think Bruce Lee’s legendary fight scenes in the 1970s and Sylvester Stallone’s immaculate performances in the Rocky franchise, not to mention that film that you are not allowed to talk about…The first rule of Fight Club.
But while martial arts are widespread in Hollywood and beyond, MMA rarely gets a mention. Boxing, karate, and kung fu have gained huge followings off the back of successful movies. But even though the discipline is popular today ー big-time broadcasters show bouts frequently and many sports betting providers regularly feature MMA betting on their sportsbooks ー it’s a lot harder for the general public to name a film involving MMA.
If you have an ESPN+ subscription or an account with a sportsbook provider, you will most likely find a bout, be it live or a rerun, on the television or sportsbook stream, but it might be trickier locating a MMA movie if you are looking for an alternative martial arts fix.
That is why we have put together this guide to the best MMA films of all time, so you can add them to your watchlist.
1. Warrior (2011)
One of the greatest modern MMA films of all time, Warrior ー starring Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton ー tells the story of two estranged brothers who reunite during an MMA tournament. With a dramatic family dynamic and twists and turns throughout, Warrior is a must-see for any MMA or martial arts fan. It had a budget of $25million but grossed just over $5million on its opening night. Despite commercial failings, it was heavily praised by critics and fans alike.
2. Bloodsport (1988)
Jean-Claude Van Damme is the protagonist of this cult classic, which essentially kick started his career. The film is about the life of Frank Dux, a US Army captain who competes in an underground martial arts tournament in Hong Kong. Despite negative reviews, Bloodsport became a huge success, spawning an entire franchise from its popularity.
3. Here Comes The Boom (2012)
Part-comedy, part-drama, Here Comes The Boom was produced by Happy Madison Productions, owned by Adam Sandler. Scott Voss, a bored biology teacher, starts competing in MMA competitions after learning that even the loser wins money to raise funds for his struggling school. If you want to see a high school teacher throw some punches, this is the film for you!
4. The Hammer (2010)
Not as well-known as some of the others on our list, The Hammer (previously called Hamill) follows the life of Matt Hamill in his youth. Hamill (played by Russell Harvard) is a deaf wrestler and MMA fighter who competes in collegiate competitions at Rochester Institute of Technology.
5. Undisputed II: Last Man Standing (2006)
While we could have recommended any of the films in the Undisputed franchise, the sequel stands out to us most. While the first one is a boxing film, the sequels bring in new forms of MMA to make the fight choreography even more exhilarating. Undisputed II stars Michael Jai White and Scott Adkins as the two are made to battle in an underground fighting ring in a Russian prison.
