While other kids played outside, Jean-Claude was drawn to the grace and discipline of dance. He trained in ballet for five years with remarkable focus, eventually earning a chance to perform at the Paris Opera.
What he learned on stage—balance, precision, control—would later become the foundation of his signature fighting style.

His father, concerned about his fragile health, enrolled him in karate. That decision changed everything.Martial arts lit a fire in him, and the blend of elegance from ballet and the power of combat created a unique presence. He soon became a national karate champion in Belgium.

Music, especially Beethoven, remained close to his heart. It gave depth to his personality and eventually influenced his film roles, adding emotion behind the action.

With little more than determination, he moved to the United States. Roles in films like Bloodsport and Kickboxer followed, and the shy boy from Brussels became a global star.