Chuck Norris (1940–2026)
The martial arts legend who helped launch the 1980s ninja boom
The martial arts world is mourning the loss of Chuck Norris, who has passed away at the age of 86, just days after celebrating his birthday.
Known globally as an action film icon, Norris holds a special place in ninjutsu history for his role in The Octagon—the first American movie to bring ninja culture into the spotlight.
His career spanned decades, from fighting champion to Hollywood star, influencing generations of martial artists and fans alike. In this tribute, Inside Ninjutsu reflects on Norris’s legacy, his connection to the ninja boom of the 1980s, and the impact he leaves behind on martial arts cinema.
EXCLUSIVE
Behind-the-scenes of American Ninja 4
Before CGI, before superhero franchises dominated the box office, there was American Ninja 4: The Annihilation — raw, explosive and filmed on the edge of chaos in South Africa. Behind the mask of the film’s deadly “Super Ninja” was martial artist Kely McClung, a man once tipped to be the next Jean-Claude Van Damme.
In this exclusive Inside Ninjutsu feature, McClung reveals what really happened behind the scenes: doubling for Michael Dudikoff and David Bradley, playing multiple roles in one film, surviving brutal injuries, and making a split-second kick adjustment that may have saved the entire production.
From editing room embarrassments to on-set rivalries and near misses, this is the untold story of precision martial arts under Hollywood pressure — and the reality behind one of the 80s’ most iconic ninja villains.
BLANK TRAINING NOTES WORKBOOK
80-page booklet to enhance your study
AVAILABLE NOW
✓ Record Techniques
✓ Describe Movements
✓ Track Armed & Unarmed Skills
✓ Document Tips & Insights
✓ Review & Reflect:
Making American Ninja 4
Behind-the-scenes stories from martial arts star KelyMcClung
Issue #3 of Inside Ninjutsu
Available now for FREE
Prepare to delve deeper into the mysterious world of ninjutsu with the highly anticipated release of Inside Ninjutsu Issue #3. Building on the success of previous issues, this edition promises an even richer tapestry of news, reviews, history, training ideas, and in-depth articles tailored for the dedicated practitioner and enthusiast of the shinobi arts.
✅ Tributes paid to Simon Yeo
✅ Samurai exhibit comes to the UK
✅ Ninja infiltration tactics
✅ The introduction of firearms to Japan
✅ Actor & stuntman Lee Charles
✅ Do groin strikes really work?
✅ How you should approach sparring
✅ Essential exercise for the modern shinobi
