In Hollywood, fight scenes often rely on stunt doubles, clever editing, and a touch of movie magic. But some actors don’t need the illusion—they have the skills to handle themselves in real combat. From martial arts masters to seasoned fighters with military training, these stars bring authenticity to their action roles because they’ve spent years honing their craft in real life. Here are 11 actors who could hold their own in a fight outside the big screen.
1. Keanu Reeves
Keanu Reeves isn’t just acting when he’s firing weapons or taking down enemies in the John Wick films — he’s trained extensively in judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and tactical gun handling. Reeves worked with elite stunt teams to perfect his fight choreography, often performing his stunts for authenticity. His dedication to learning real combat techniques has earned praise from martial artists and military trainers alike. Off-screen, Reeves regularly practices his skills, blending them seamlessly into his roles, which is why his fight scenes look so realistic. In real life, he could handle himself in a confrontation.