If you loved the high-octane action and intense fight scenes of Never Back Down 2: The Beatdown (2011), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows that deliver the same adrenaline-pumping martial arts drama, underground fight clubs, and underdog triumphs. Whether you're a fan of raw combat or compelling character arcs, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Karate Kid (1984)
Description: A classic underdog story featuring martial arts training and tournament battles, emphasizing discipline and personal growth.
Fact: The film's iconic 'crane kick' was inspired by a real-life karate move, though it's rarely used in actual competition.


The Art of War (2000)
Description: An action-thriller with martial arts elements, blending espionage and combat in a high-stakes narrative.
Fact: The title references Sun Tzu's ancient Chinese military treatise, which plays a thematic role in the film.


Undisputed (2002)
Description: A prison-set martial arts film highlighting underground fighting tournaments, with a strong emphasis on physical combat and rivalry.
Fact: The film's fight choreography was heavily influenced by real-life boxing and martial arts techniques.


Blood and Bone (2009)
Description: A street fighting film with a focus on underground combat, showcasing brutal fight choreography and a protagonist with a mysterious past.
Fact: Michael Jai White performed all his own stunts and fight scenes in the movie.


Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Description: A poignant drama about a female boxer's rise in the sport, blending intense fight scenes with deep emotional storytelling.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.


The Fighter (2010)
Description: A biographical sports drama centered around boxing, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of a determined athlete.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of boxer Micky Ward and his half-brother Dicky Eklund.


Never Back Down (2008)
Description: A coming-of-age story set in the world of underground MMA, focusing on a young fighter's journey to prove himself.
Fact: The film's fight scenes were choreographed by a team of professional MMA fighters to ensure realism.


Fighting (2009)
Description: A drama revolving around underground street fighting, featuring high-stakes battles and a protagonist seeking redemption through combat.
Fact: The film was shot on location in New York City, adding authenticity to its urban setting.


Southpaw (2015)
Description: A boxing drama focusing on a fighter's personal and professional struggles, with visceral fight sequences and themes of redemption.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal underwent a rigorous physical transformation to portray the lead character, a professional boxer.


Warrior (2019)
Description: A gritty drama centered around mixed martial arts, featuring intense fight sequences and themes of redemption and family conflict.
Fact: The show was originally developed as a continuation of the 2011 film 'Warrior,' which was based on an idea by Bruce Lee.
