Jean-Claude Van Damme, a Belgian martial artist and actor, began his competitive karate career at the age of 15, amassing an impressive record of 44 victories and only four defeats. He was a key figure in the Belgium Karate Team that clinched the European Karate Championship in 1979. His martial arts prowess did not go unnoticed in the film industry, as he moved to the United States in 1982 to pursue acting, landing his breakout film role in "Bloodsport" in 1988.

Van Damme's film career includes over 40 films that have collectively grossed over $1 billion worldwide. Notable films include "Bloodsport," "Kickboxer," and "Universal Soldier." His portrayal of complex characters won him critical acclaim, particularly in the crime drama "JCVD" in 2008. Throughout his career, Van Damme has been recognized with a Golden Lotus Award and a Bollywood Movie Award, and has been nominated for three MTV Movie Awards.

His influence extends beyond the film industry; his likeness and voice were featured in the 2023 video game "Mortal Kombat 1". His contributions to martial arts and cinema have been recognized in his homeland, with a statue erected in his honor in Anderlecht, Belgium in 2012. Beyond his acting career, Van Damme is an avid advocate for various conservationist causes and animal rights organizations.

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