Top 10 Deadliest Martial Arts in the World. (2024)

Martial art is a fighting sport that people can do for various reasons, including self-defence, fitness, relaxation, confidence-building and maintaining body flexibility. You probably should not know, but numerous mixed arts, such as kung fu (Pinyin gongfu), judo, karate, and kendo, are the fighting sports or techniques that fall under the best martial arts. East Asian martial arts are based on Daoism and Zen Buddhism, which make them distinctive from other martial arts in the world. Consequently, people have placed a high emphasis on their mental and spiritual well-being, which enables the mind and body to react immediately to changing situations around them as a unit, thereby suspending the rationalising and calculating functions of the mind. Here, in this article, we tell you about the world's top 10 best martial arts.

Have you ever wanted to be the best at martial arts or learn more about it? If so, then this is the best place for you. With years of training and complex techniques, martial arts are among the best sports. It is not the type of sport that develops overnight. While some martial arts styles developed gradually, others took more time.

Developing confidence in your skills and abilities is the cornerstone of this illustrious sport. Although most of this skill is based on our daily routine, performing those actions repeatedly helps develop powerful muscles and a sure grip.

In any case, this post has identified the top 10 most deadly martial arts. Some may be popular martial arts you know about, while others are included in the list based on the deadly martial arts.

Martial arts training can help you overcome enemies and develop inner peace. If you are interested in learning about martial art or have a passion for it, it's advised that you do some research on the different ones out there. We hope this article has helped you choose your best martial arts fighting style. In this article, we introduce the top 10 martial arts in the world; read below.

How Many Types of Martial Arts Are There?

You can practice martial arts in more than 190 different types. Establish your objectives and decide what you want to accomplish. Anyone can become a perfectionist in one or more martial arts if they can devote themselves to it because practice makes a man perfect. Once your goal has been established, you may now select the style of martial arts that would best serve them. The best martial arts in the world are listed below for your consideration.

It includes well-known martial arts disciplines like Karate, Taekwondo, Krav Manga, BJJ. and MMA, as well as common ones like “Drunken Fist”, Kung Fu, Sherlock Holmes, Bartit*u, and Zulu Stick Fighting. We have decided this data into martial arts styles with a “speciality” and place of origin(i.e. Martial arts that were created in America, Japan, Korea, and China) (i.e. weapons-based or grappling-based martial arts). After deep research, we made a list 10 best martial arts in the world.

Top 10 Types of Martial Arts

In the following list, you will discover 10 different types of martial arts. There are also a lot of practitioners of these martial arts. You can enrich your knowledge of martial arts by going through each style.

1. Taekwondo (Korea)

Taekwondo is a traditional Korean martial art form that is the most systematic and scientific. Taekwondo originates in tribal and royal combat techniques from 600 AD, although contemporary Taekwondo just started in the 1940s. This popular martial art gave the fighting world various exceptional kicking forms and styles. Taekwondo kicks develop into entertaining or eye-catching skills. These methods are used by professionals that specialise in “tricking.”

A martial art style like this can adapt to a unique style that matches other fighting styles. Teaching taekwondo at different taekwondo schools and training institutes makes it considerably less intimidating due to its nature. It is the most popular martial art in Korea.

2. Kung Fu (China)

Kung fu is a term used to describe Chinese martial arts. It is intended to cleanse the body and mind. Kung Fu first appeared in the Shaolin Temple. Monks trained here for both health and self-defence as they pursued enlightenment. Shaolin, Tai Chi, Wing Chun, and more forms and varieties of kung fu exist. The techniques used in each Kung Fu style vary.

All of the styles, however, adhere to the same core idea. Striking quickly and forcefully is essential in kung fu. To rapidly destroy your foes, you must mix strength and quickness. Kung Fu students also master various weapon techniques. They learn to use multiple weapons, including swords, staffs, and spears.

Kung fu, though, comes in a variety of forms. They aim to hit your adversary with unstoppable strength and lightning speed, yet they all pursue the same objective. Its reputation as one of the world's deadliest deadly martial arts stems from this.

3. Judo (Japan)

The Judo martial art enhances physical prowess and mental fortitude. It was founded in 1882 and originated in Japan. Judo is a well-known Olympic sport worldwide. It has numerous styles. All judo styles use a range of takedowns and throw to defeat opponents and control hostile situations. Judo is renowned for emphasising chokes, trips, joint locks, throws, and sweeps despite being descended from Jiu-Jitsu.

There are no deadly moves in the Judo techniques. It is thus one of the most sport-safe forms of martial arts. Judo is the best martial art to study if you want to learn how to defend yourself. You will still come across some proper hitting techniques, but if you ever find yourself in a real-world fight, just use a simple Judo throw to take the attacker down. The best martial art style available is this one.

4. Aikido (Japan)

Japan is the birthplace of aikido, a non-aggressive martial art. Morihei Ueshiba founded the first Aikido practice in the early twentieth century. Neither aggressive nor passive actions are involved in this martial art. Aikido is the most gentle martial art that won’t damage anyone, but it is an expert at ending heated arguments.

So, are you wondering how Aikido works? It works by putting your wrist lock control. It also tries a variety of takedowns and throws. In Aikido, each participant must eliminate all types of opposition because throws and locks are used to prevent injuries. Anyone can be fascinated while watching Aikido action, which has meditative qualities. It is not as useful in combat as other martial arts. Because Aikido does not insist that everyone is the best or a champion, the practitioner can reach their highest level. The main benefit of martial arts is that they place more emphasis on inner growth than winning.

5. Karate (Japan)

Japan's martial art of karate, which focuses on all body parts, is used for self-defence. Karate originated on the Ryukyu Islands' island of Okinawa, which lies south of Japan.

The whole body is used during a karate bout. Techniques used often in the sport include punching, kicking, elbows, throwing, and open-handed "knife strikes." Kyokushin Karate practitioners can punch with full force with either hand and are not required to wear protective equipment.

Karate differs from the other lethal martial arts on our list in that it focuses on both the mind and the body. With a focused mind and a well-trained body, karate may quickly become one of the world's most lethal martial arts.

6. Muay Thai (Thailand)

Muay Thai is one of the deadliest martial arts forms and is commonly referred to as the Art of Eight Limbs. It was established in the aftermath of the Siamese Revolution in 1932. For striking, Muay Thai primarily uses outer body parts such as feet, elbows, shins, and hands. Its training is focused on rigorous conditioning, and practitioners of this discipline must harden their bodies in certain areas, such as the shins. The martial arts trainee must have highly flexible legs and be known for high kicks.

During Muay Thai competitions, players cover their bodies in oil before combat so their blows will slide off and not inflict too much damage. Sports Muay Thai has evolved from Muay Boran, a military fighting style, with some changes in technique and the use of boxing gloves to make it more civilised.

7. Jeet Kune Do (China)

The “Jeet Kune Do” is a “street combat” technique or martial art. It offers both philosophical and technological methods. Do you want to know more about the creator of Jeet Kune Do? The creator of this martial art is Bruce Lee; in 1969, Bruce Lee helped to make this deadliest martial art more powerful. Karate, Judo, Wing Chun, and boxing methods and philosophies are all combined in Jeet Kune Do. This combination has great force in generating an impulsive and dynamic combat style.

Jeet Kune Do translates to “the way to intercept fists.” This particular martial art form places a lot of emphasis on fusing offence and defence. The quickest counter tracks are a priority. The tactics and techniques of Jeet Kune Do align with Bruce Lee’s worldview. The “Jeet Kune Do” practitioners learn how to react to any circ*mstance instead of accepting it.

8. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Brazil)

Brazilian jiu-jitsu focuses on grappling, particularly on the ground, to gain control of the situation and subdue your opponent by applying joint locks and chokes.

The style evolved from a modified form of Judo performed before World War II that included specific techniques from classical Jujutsu and emphasised non-Waza (floor techniques). The idea that a smaller, weaker person can successfully fend off a bigger, stronger attacker by using balance and skill is encouraged.

BJJ may be practised for mixed martial arts, gi and no-gi sports grappling competitions, and self-defence (MMA). Training involves sparring, sometimes known as "rolling," with an opponent. When used under the right conditions, it can be a very deadly martial art and especially beneficial for smaller individuals.

9. Kendo (Japan)

The Japanese martial art of Kendo is closely tied to that of the samurai. Kendo originated or was founded over 200 years ago, meaning this martial art is much older than you think. Samurais, who fought with “Nihonto” (swords), invented it. The martial art of kendo instructs students in the use of katana. Katana is a Japanese weapon that is primarily used in battle. Students will discover several ranges and sequences for using the katana. When learning Kendo, students will need protective gear and a bamboo sword.

Kendo is a derivative of Kenjutsu; throughout the Edo era, Kenjutsu had enormous popularity in Japan. Kendo has developed into a well-liked sport over time. Kendo includes a point system in contests as well. Kendo, above all, preserves the spirit of Kenjutsu. How? It teaches the students how to use a sword in a deadly way. The gallant samurai previously employed these lethal sword techniques.

10. Krav Maga (Israel)

The most well-known martial art in the world, Krav Maga, is used extensively by the military, police, and other law enforcement agencies to defend against unarmed and armed attacks. After its founder, Imrich Sde-Ora, it became a success in the field. The International Krav Maga Federation is currently under the direction of Eyal Yanilov, the founder's right hand, for more than fifteen years. Krav Maga has been around since 1904.

Krav Maga trains its practitioners to deal with various dangerous situations involving the ground, numerous attackers, knife threats, and more. Additionally, it incorporates multiple Judo, wrestling, and boxing techniques. In Krav Maga, additional street combat concepts are taught. It is a flexible martial art style. Although it isn’t a specific location, it helps a person be ready for any complex situation.

Conclusion

There are numerous martial arts types worldwide, but we mentioned the 10 best martial arts in the world. Moreover, every kind of martial art is highly effective. Make sure to pick the most effective ones to learn. You may learn any martial art form independently, but you should seek expert instruction. We hope you enjoyed reading about the top ten martial arts in the world. Please leave comments or recommendations below. You should know more about many martial arts before you start practising.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the hardest martial on Earth?

Martial arts, such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, have been the most difficult to learn. Mastering this discipline will not be easy, even for most martial artists and athletic students.

  1. Who is the father of martial arts?

The best martial artist, Bruce Lee, is the father of martial arts. In the 1970s, his Hong Kong and Hollywood martial arts films grew in popularity, and Hong Kong, martial arts movies, became increasingly popular in the West. As a result, Chinese martial arts have gained a growing interest in the West.

  1. Who is No 1 martial artist in the world?

Bruce Lee Among the Top 10 Martial Artists in 2021, Bruce Lee ranked first, according to a National League of the World's Top 10 Martial Artists survey. Lee Jun-fan was a Chinese martial arts performer, celebrity, filmmaker, martial arts instructor, and philosopher who lived from November 27, 1940, until July 20, 1973.

  1. What are the 4 main categories of martial arts?

There are a few styles within each of the four primary subcategories of material arts: Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Brazilian. Mixed martial arts, usually known as MMA, are a subset of the martial arts that combine elements of martial arts and other combat sports.

Top 10 Deadliest Martial Arts in the World. (2024)

FAQs

What is the strongest martial art in history? ›

However, one martial art that is often considered to be the most deadly is Krav Maga.

Who is No 1 martial artist in the world? ›

1. Bruce Lee. Bruce Lee is ranked first among the top 10 martial artists in the world in 2021. Lee Jun-fan (27 November 1940 - 20 July 1973) was a Chinese martial art performer, star, film maker, martial art teacher, and philosopher.

What is an aggressive martial art? ›

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Krav Maga, Muay Thai, Boxing, Jeet Kune Do and other styles are among the top 10 deadliest martial arts in the world. The future of deadly martial arts will combine traditional techniques with modern training methods and new forms may emerge that create even more lethal techniques.

How many martial arts are there? ›

Practicers often find that they're never happy with their progress and that they want to continue pushing themselves to be better. While there are 180 styles of martial arts, the most common you might have heard of are Judo, Karate, MMA, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Krav Maga, and Jiu-Jitsu.

What is the king of martial arts? ›

Bruce Lee rightfully earned the moniker of being the true "King of Martial Arts." Through his amazing skills, work ethic, and achievements, Lee demonstrated that he stood above all other martial artists both in his own generation and all those who came before.

What is the deadliest hand to hand combat? ›

Kung Fu. Getty No list of deadly martial arts would be complete without Kung Fu. The granddaddy of hand-to-hand fighting has been practiced for centuries in China, and used by its warriors to deadly effect for just as long.

Who was King of Kung Fu? ›

Bruce Lee: King of Kung-Fu.

Who is the father of martial arts? ›

While Kalariyapattu is the Mother of Martial arts, Bodhidharma is said to be the Father of Martial Art. He was a prince hailing from the city of Kanjipuram in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. The third son of the ruling king Pallava, Bodhidharma learnt Buddhism and was trained in the Kerala style of Kalaripayattu.

What rank is Chuck Norris? ›

Chuck Norris Military Service

Stationed at Osan Air Base, South Korea, with the 6314th Air Police Squadron. Served as air policeman at March Air Force Base. Discharged in 1962 with the rank of airman first class. Received the Veteran of the Year 2001 award from the U.S. Air Force.

What martial arts do assassins use? ›

Throughout history, various martial arts have been used in covert operations, and in this article, we will explore two intriguing styles associated with assassination: Ninjutsu and Wing Chun. Let's delve into the shadowy realms of these martial arts to uncover their connections to historical assassinations.

Can kung fu be used in a real fight? ›

There are many traditional Kung Fu techniques found in the combat training of todays armed forces and special forces. For example the S.C.A.R.S and CQD programs taught to Navy Seals and other armed forces was designed, not as self defense, but for soldiers in high risk situations.

What is a peaceful martial art? ›

AIKIDO | 合氣道

Founded by Morihei Ueshiba, Aikido is a martial art that focuses on harmonizing with your opponent to bring peaceful resolutions to situations involving conflict.

What is real ninjutsu? ›

Ninjutsu was developed as a collection of fundamental survivalist techniques in the warring state of feudal Japan. The ninja used their art to ensure their survival in a time of violent political turmoil. Ninjutsu included methods of gathering information and techniques of non-detection, avoidance, and misdirection.

What kind of martial arts Does Batman use? ›

Batman traditionally practices many forms of Ninjitsu and Martial Arts from the East. In modern appearances, Batman has been depicted as using a combat system called Bruce Lee's Jeet Kun Do, an fighting style that was developed by Bruce Lee by mixing together several different martial arts like Kung fu and Kick Boxing.

What is a mixed martial artist? ›

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport based on striking, grappling and ground fighting, incorporating techniques from various combat sports from around the world. The first documented use of the term mixed martial arts was in a review of UFC 1 by television critic Howard Rosenberg in 1993.

Who is the strongest in martial world? ›

Lin Ming (Martial World) | Top-Strongest Wikia | Fandom.

What is ninjutsu in real life? ›

Ninjutsu (忍術), sometimes used interchangeably with the modern term ninpō (忍法), is the martial art strategy and tactics of unconventional warfare, guerrilla warfare, insurgency tactics and espionage purportedly practised by the ninja.

Can Lethwei beat Muay Thai? ›

The results are really mixed as some Muay Thai fighters were able to beat Lethwei fighters under Lethwei rules and vice versa. This is mainly because these two arts include similar techniques and it's very easy to transfer from one sport to the other.

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