Action film star Gary Daniels was a real-life kick-boxing champion. With rugged good-looks, a muscular build and a charming personality, it was a natural for him to move from the world of fighting to that of acting. Born Gary Edward Daniels on May 9, 1963 in Working, Surrey, England, Daniels was a childhood fan of legendary martial arts film star Bruce Lee. He followed his idol by studying Kung Fu. Demonstrating a natural ability for the sport of kick-boxing, Daniels embarked on his ring career. He traveled to Florida in the United States and began competing there. According to a report in the Miami Herald Newspaper, Daniels defeated Sherman Bergman in a tournament in Miami, Florida, in March 1980. He went on to capture a Professional Karate Association Lightheavyweight Kickboxing Championship. He retired from the sport with an undefeated record of 22-0, with 21 knockouts victories. His ring achievements brought him small roles in Miami Vice. He later traveled to the Philippines to make karate films, and from there went into mainstream film-making. Daniels has acted in over 50 movies.
WKBA Kickboxing Champion in California. Former PKA (Professional Karate Association) fighter. Started his fight career in England and then traveled to the United States. In his first U.S. match on March 5, 1980 in Coconut Grove, Florida, he defeated Sherman Bergman of Miami at the Sunshine State Tournament (Miami Herald Sport's Section, March 6,1980). Daniels fought in Florida and California. Retired with an undefeated record of 22-0 with 21 knockouts. Won the Lightheavyweight Kickboxing Championship of the World. Trained in the United States by Winston Omega. Started kick-boxing at age 17 and was trained by Micky Birne. Started his United States fighting career in Florida, winning his American debut at the Sunshine State Tournament by defeating Sherman (Big Train) Bergman on March 4, 1980. Fought in Tae Kwon Do tournaments in England, being disqualified 3 times for knocking out his opponents. At the age of 16, Daniels earned a first degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Studied Ninjitsu for a time under Mark Russo.