The man behind Tong Po in Kickboxer

Introduction

Hi! If you’re a fan of martial arts movies, you’ve probably heard of Michel Qissi. The Belgian-Moroccan actor has left an indelible mark on the genre with his memorable roles in films like ‘Kickboxer’ and ‘Bloodsport’. But how much do we really know about him? Let’s take a closer look at Michel Qissi’s net worth, his career and some interesting facts about his life.

Name	Michel Qissi
Profession	Actor, martial artist
Date of birth	September 12, 1962
Place of birth	Oujda, Morocco
Country	Belgium, Morocco
Net worth	$1 million – $5 million
Source of income	Acting, martial arts, endorsements
Height	6′ 2″
Ethnicity	Moroccan, Belgian
Siblings	Abdel Qissi

Early life and background

Michel Qissi was born on September 12, 1962 in Oujda, Morocco. Growing up, he was surrounded by a rich cultural heritage that mixed Moroccan and Belgian influences. His family moved to Belgium when he was still young and it was there that he began to cultivate his passion for martial arts.

Family bonds

Michel is not the only one in his family who likes the limelight. His brother Abdel Qissi is also an actor and martial artist. The two have collaborated on several projects, adding a family touch to their professional endeavors.

Career Highlights

Michel Qissi is perhaps best known for his work with Jean-Claude Van Damme. The two met in Belgium and became fast friends, sharing a common love of martial arts. Their friendship led to some iconic film roles.

Breaking’

One of Michel’s first film appearances was in “Breakin’,” a 1984 dance film that also featured Jean-Claude Van Damme in a minor role. Although not a martial arts film, it showed Michel’s versatility as an actor.

Blood sport

In 1988, Michel starred alongside Jean-Claude Van Damme in the film “Bloodsport”, which has since become a cult classic. Michel played the role of Suan Paredes, a supporting character, but his performance left a lasting impression.

Kickboxer

Michel’s most iconic role came in 1989’s “Kickboxer,” where he portrayed the villain Tong Po. His menacing performance made him a household name among martial arts enthusiasts. The film was a huge success and cemented his status as a martial arts icon.

Other notable films

In addition to working with Van Damme, Michel appeared in several other films, including “Lionheart” and “Kickboxer: Vengeance.” Each role showcased his unique blend of martial arts and acting skills.

Net worth

Given his extensive filmography, it’s no surprise that Michel Qissi has amassed a substantial net worth. While it may be hard to pin down the exact numbers, estimates suggest that his net worth is somewhere between $1 million and $5 million. This wealth comes not only from his acting roles but also from various endorsements and appearances.

Other businesses

In addition to his film career, Michel ventured into other fields. He participated in martial arts training and even engaged in film production. These endeavors further contributed to his net worth.

Personal life

As of 2023, Michel Qissi is 61 years old and 6 feet 2 inches tall. His imposing figure undoubtedly contributed to his success in the martial arts film genre.

Nationality and heritage

Michel has dual citizenship, both Belgian and Moroccan. This unique blend of cultures has enriched his life and career and allowed him to connect with a diverse spectrum of fans.

Hobbies and interests

When he is not on set, Michel has various hobbies. Of course, he is an avid martial artist, but he also enjoys other activities such as hiking and traveling. These interests help him stay grounded and composed, despite the pressures of fame.

Fun facts

Michel is not just an actor; he is a true martial artist. He holds black belts in several disciplines, including kickboxing and Muay Thai. This expertise adds another layer of authenticity to his film roles.

Friendship with Van Damme

Michel and Jean-Claude Van Damme’s friendship goes beyond the screen. The two have been friends for decades and continue to support each other’s careers. Their bond is a testament to the strength of their shared passions and mutual respect.

Philanthropy

Michel is also involved in various charitable activities. He believes in giving back to the community and often participates in events that promote martial arts and physical fitness among young people.

Wrap up

Michel Qissi’s life is a fascinating blend of martial arts, acting and cultural heritage. From his beginnings in Morocco to his rise as a martial arts icon, he has lived a life full of adventure and success. His net worth reflects not only his financial success, but also his influence in the world of martial arts cinema. So the next time you watch “Kickboxer” or “Bloodsport,” take a moment to appreciate the talent and dedication of Michel Qissi