What Martial Arts Does John Wick Use? 🥋 The 12 Styles Explained (2025)


Video: John Wick.







Ever wondered what makes John Wick such a lethal force on screen? It’s not just the slick suits or the relentless determination — it’s the masterful blend of martial arts that fuels every punch, throw, and gunshot. From the fluid knife work of Filipino Kali to the tactical gunplay of Gun Fu, John Wick’s combat style is a fascinating hybrid that’s as practical as it is cinematic.

In this article, we break down the 12 martial arts disciplines that come together to create John Wick’s signature fighting style. We’ll explore how each art contributes to his efficiency, lethality, and style, and reveal behind-the-scenes secrets from Keanu Reeves’ intense training regimen. Plus, we’ll share practical tips on how you can incorporate elements of Wick’s techniques into your own training. Ready to unlock the secrets of the world’s most iconic assassin? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • John Wick’s fighting style is a hybrid of 12 martial arts, including Gun Fu, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Filipino Kali, Silat, and more.
  • Gun Fu combines firearms and martial arts, creating a unique and stylish combat method central to Wick’s on-screen persona.
  • Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provide throws and ground control, allowing Wick to neutralize opponents efficiently.
  • Filipino Kali and Silat contribute lethal knife and close-quarters combat skills.
  • Keanu Reeves’ dedication to cross-training with experts made the style authentic and practical.
  • You can start training like John Wick by focusing on efficiency, adaptability, and blending striking with grappling and weapon skills.

👉 Shop John Wick-Inspired Gear:

Unlock your inner Wick and train smarter, not harder!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About John Wick’s Martial Arts

Welcome to the ultimate breakdown of John Wick’s martial arts! If you’ve ever wondered what makes Keanu Reeves’ assassin so deadly, you’re in the right dojo. At Karate MMA™, we’ve dissected every punch, kick, throw, and gunshot to bring you the facts and insights behind the legend.

  • John Wick’s style is a hybrid: a cocktail of Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Gun Fu, Kali, and more.
  • The choreography blends real martial arts with cinematic flair, thanks to experts like Donnie Yen and Tiger Chen.
  • The fighting philosophy is inspired by Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do: absorb what’s useful, discard what’s not.
  • Wick’s knife skills are rooted in Filipino Kali, making him a master of close-quarters combat.
  • His grappling and throws showcase Judo and Sambo, emphasizing control and efficiency.
  • The gunplay? That’s Gun Fu, a stylish fusion of firearms and martial arts from Hong Kong cinema.

Want to know how all these arts come together in one unstoppable force? Stick with us — we’re just getting started! For a deep dive into related arts like Aikido, check out our detailed breakdowns.

🕵️‍♂️ The Evolution of John Wick’s Combat Style: A Martial Arts Breakdown

John Wick’s fighting style is a living, breathing evolution of martial arts cinema and real-world combat techniques. It’s not just flashy moves — it’s a carefully crafted system designed for efficiency, lethality, and storytelling.

The Roots: From Bruce Lee to Modern MMA

  • Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do philosophy underpins Wick’s approach: no wasted motion, direct and effective.
  • The influence of MMA is clear — blending striking, grappling, and weapon skills seamlessly.
  • The choreography team includes experts from Judo, BJJ, Kali, Silat, and Shoot Wrestling, creating a hybrid style that’s both authentic and cinematic.

Why This Matters

This fusion style reflects the reality of modern self-defense and combat sports — no single martial art reigns supreme. Instead, the best fighters adapt and combine techniques. John Wick’s style is a perfect example of this martial arts melting pot.

1. 🔫 Gun Fu: The Signature Blend of Firearms and Fighting

Gun Fu is the heart-thumping, pulse-racing combo of martial arts and firearms that defines John Wick’s combat scenes. Originating from Hong Kong action cinema (think John Woo’s classics), Gun Fu mixes precision shooting with close-quarters combat.

Aspect Rating (1-10) Notes
Realism 8 Based on tactical shooting and martial arts
Cinematic Style 10 Highly stylized and visually stunning
Practicality 7 Effective but requires elite skill
Innovation 9 Combines two deadly arts seamlessly

How Gun Fu Works in John Wick

  • Fluid transitions between shooting, reloading, and hand-to-hand combat.
  • Use of cover and movement to maintain tactical advantage.
  • Integration of strikes, throws, and weapon disarms while firing.

Keanu Reeves trained extensively with firearms experts and martial artists to nail this style. The result? Fight scenes that feel both realistic and exhilarating.

2. 🤼‍♂️ Judo Throws and Grappling Techniques in John Wick’s Arsenal

Judo’s influence is unmistakable in John Wick’s use of throws, sweeps, and joint locks. This art focuses on using an opponent’s momentum against them — perfect for a character who needs to neutralize threats quickly.

Technique Application in John Wick Effectiveness
Ippon Seoi Nage Shoulder throw to incapacitate enemies ✅ Quick and efficient takedown
Osoto Gari Major outer reap to off-balance opponents ✅ Controls multiple attackers
Kesa Gatame Ground pinning technique ✅ Maintains control on the floor

Why Judo Works for John Wick

  • Minimal energy expenditure for maximum impact.
  • Throws create openings for follow-up strikes or weapon use.
  • Grappling skills prevent being overwhelmed in close quarters.

Our Karate MMA™ team loves how John Wick’s judo is practical and brutal — no flashy flips, just deadly effectiveness.

3. 🥋 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Ground Control and Submission Mastery

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is the secret sauce behind John Wick’s dominance on the ground. The art emphasizes positional control, submissions, and escapes, which are all showcased in the films.

BJJ Element John Wick Application Real-World Benefit
Guard Passing Breaking opponent’s defense ✅ Opens path for strikes
Rear Naked Choke Finishing move to incapacitate quietly ✅ Effective non-lethal control
Joint Locks Wrist and arm locks to neutralize attackers ✅ Control without damage

Training Insights

Keanu Reeves trained with the Machado brothers, BJJ legends, to perfect these moves. The ground fighting scenes are choreographed to reflect real BJJ principles, making them both believable and thrilling.

4. 🥊 Karate’s Impact on John Wick’s Striking Precision

Karate contributes to John Wick’s fast, precise punches and kicks. The art’s emphasis on linear strikes and powerful body mechanics shines through in his combat style.

Karate Technique Role in John Wick’s Fighting Style Effectiveness
Reverse Punch Quick, straight punch to vital areas ✅ High impact, fast delivery
Front Kick Keeps opponents at bay ✅ Creates distance and control
Elbow Strikes Close-range damage ✅ Devastating in confined spaces

Why Karate Fits John Wick

  • The directness of karate strikes complements the efficiency of Gun Fu and grappling.
  • Combines well with other arts for a well-rounded striking game.
  • Adds explosive power to fight sequences.

At Karate MMA™, we admire how John Wick’s karate isn’t showy but brutally effective — a lesson for all striking enthusiasts.

5. 🦶 Tae Kwon Do Kicks and Their Role in John Wick’s Combat

While not a primary style, elements of Tae Kwon Do appear in John Wick’s dynamic kicking techniques, especially high and spinning kicks.

Kick Type Appearance in Films Tactical Use
Roundhouse Kick Used to knock down or stun opponents ✅ Versatile and powerful
Spinning Back Kick Surprise attack to finish fights ✅ High damage, unexpected

Balancing Power and Speed

John Wick uses Tae Kwon Do kicks sparingly but effectively — never flashy, always purposeful. This reflects the art’s emphasis on speed and precision, which adds flair without compromising efficiency.

6. 🔪 Filipino Kali: Weapon-Based Combat and Knife Fighting

John Wick’s knife skills are a standout feature, thanks to Filipino Kali (also known as Eskrima or Arnis), a martial art specializing in sticks, knives, and empty-hand combat.

Kali Element John Wick Application Real-World Effectiveness
Knife Disarms Quick weapon takeaways ✅ Neutralizes threats fast
Stick Fighting Used in close-quarter combat ✅ Enhances reflexes and timing
Flow Drills Seamless transitions between weapons and fists ✅ Improves adaptability

Why Kali is a Game-Changer

  • Kali’s fluid weapon transitions make John Wick’s fights mesmerizing and deadly.
  • The art’s emphasis on speed and precision matches the movie’s fast pace.
  • Kali training enhances situational awareness — crucial for an assassin.

If you want to explore Kali further, check out our Martial Arts History section for deep dives.

7. 🐉 Kung Fu Influences in John Wick’s Fluid Movements

Kung Fu, especially styles like Wing Chun and Wushu, influences John Wick’s fluidity and adaptability in combat, particularly in John Wick 3 and 4 with Donnie Yen’s involvement.

Kung Fu Style Characteristic Moves Impact on John Wick’s Fighting
Wing Chun Close-range trapping and quick strikes ✅ Enhances hand speed and control
Wushu Agile footwork and acrobatics ✅ Adds cinematic flair and mobility

The Yin and Yang of Fluidity

Kung Fu’s emphasis on flow and redirection complements the hard strikes of Karate and Judo throws. This balance makes John Wick’s style unpredictable and mesmerizing.

8. 🤼 Sambo’s Impact: Wrestling and Submission Holds

Sambo, a Russian martial art combining wrestling and judo, adds a brutal and aggressive grappling dimension to John Wick’s fighting.

Sambo Technique Use in John Wick’s Combat Effectiveness
Leg Locks Submission holds to incapacitate opponents ✅ Highly effective and painful
Throws and Takedowns Aggressive control of opponents ✅ Dominates close-range fights

Why Sambo Fits John Wick’s Background

John Wick’s Eastern European roots align with Sambo’s origins, adding authenticity. The art’s blend of wrestling and submissions enhances his ground game and takedown power.

9. 🤼 Shoot Wrestling and Its Role in Realistic Fight Scenes

Shoot wrestling is a hybrid combat sport blending wrestling, judo, and striking — perfect for choreographing John Wick’s realistic yet cinematic fight scenes.

Aspect Shoot Wrestling Contribution Benefit to John Wick’s Style
Live-Fight Choreography Blends multiple martial arts fluidly ✅ Realistic and dynamic fights
Submission Holds Adds grappling depth ✅ Enhances fight variety
Striking Integration Combines punches and kicks with grappling ✅ Seamless transitions

Behind the Scenes

The choreography team uses shoot wrestling principles to keep fights believable while maintaining excitement. This fusion keeps John Wick’s combat fresh and engaging.

10. 🌀 Aikido’s Redirection Techniques in John Wick’s Defense

Aikido’s philosophy of using an opponent’s energy against them appears in John Wick’s defensive maneuvers, especially in John Wick 3.

Aikido Technique Application in John Wick’s Style Defensive Advantage
Irimi Nage Entering throw to redirect attacks ✅ Neutralizes aggression
Tenkan Circular movement to avoid strikes ✅ Creates openings for counters

Why Aikido Matters

Aikido’s non-aggressive defense fits John Wick’s efficient style — no wasted effort, just smart redirection. For a deeper dive, check our article on Aikido.

11. 🥷 Ninjutsu Elements: Stealth and Tactical Movement

Ninjutsu, the art of the ninja, influences John Wick’s stealth, espionage, and tactical approaches to combat.

Ninjutsu Aspect John Wick’s Use Tactical Benefit
Silent Movement Approaching enemies undetected ✅ Surprise advantage
Weapon Concealment Hidden knives and gadgets ✅ Versatility in combat
Espionage Skills Intelligence gathering and infiltration ✅ Strategic superiority

The Shadow Assassin

Ninjutsu adds a layer of mystique and tactical depth to John Wick’s character, making him not just a fighter but a ghost in the shadows.

12. 🗡️ Silat’s Lethal Close-Quarters Combat Techniques

Silat, a Southeast Asian martial art, is famous for its devastating close-range strikes and weapon use, featured in John Wick 3 with actors from The Raid.

Silat Technique On-Screen Application Combat Effectiveness
Kerambit Knife Use Swift, slicing attacks ✅ Lethal and precise
Joint Manipulations Controlling and disabling opponents ✅ Quick incapacitation
Flowing Movements Smooth transitions between strikes and defense ✅ Keeps opponents off-balance

Why Silat Stands Out

Silat’s deadly efficiency and fluidity make it a perfect complement to John Wick’s style, especially in knife fights and close-quarters combat.

🎥 Behind the Scenes: Training Regimens and Choreography Secrets

Keanu Reeves’ transformation into John Wick involved months of intense training with top martial artists and firearms experts.

  • BJJ and Judo boot camps with the Machado brothers and other grapplers.
  • Firearms training emphasizing tactical shooting and weapon transitions.
  • Knife fighting drills based on Kali and Silat techniques.
  • Conditioning for stamina and fight endurance.

The fight choreography team, including Jonathan Eusebio and Donnie Yen, crafted scenes that balance realism with cinematic spectacle. This behind-the-scenes magic is what makes John Wick’s fights so memorable.

🧠 Psychological Warfare: The Mindset Behind John Wick’s Fighting Style

John Wick isn’t just physically lethal — his mental game is razor sharp.

  • Calm under pressure: Wick’s composure allows him to analyze and exploit opponents’ weaknesses.
  • Relentless focus: No wasted motion or hesitation.
  • Adaptability: He reads the fight and adjusts tactics instantly.

This mindset is as important as any technique — it’s the difference between a fighter and a legend.

💥 How John Wick’s Martial Arts Influence Modern Action Cinema

John Wick has set a new standard for realistic, brutal, and stylish fight choreography in Hollywood.

  • Inspired by Hong Kong cinema’s Gun Fu and Bruce Lee’s philosophy.
  • Influenced subsequent films and series to prioritize authentic martial arts training for actors.
  • Elevated the role of mixed martial arts in storytelling.

At Karate MMA™, we see John Wick as a game-changer who bridged the gap between martial arts and blockbuster action.

🔍 Comparing John Wick’s Style to Real-World Martial Arts Practitioners

John Wick’s style is a hybrid, but how does it stack up against real fighters?

Martial Artist Style Emphasized Similarities to John Wick Differences
Georges St-Pierre MMA (BJJ, Wrestling, Striking) Hybrid approach, efficiency More sport-oriented, less cinematic
Donnie Yen Kung Fu, MMA Fluidity, weapon skills More traditional kung fu emphasis
Firas Zahabi MMA Coach Practicality and adaptability Coaching focus, less performance

John Wick’s style is tailored for storytelling, but grounded in real martial arts principles, making it both believable and inspiring.

🛡️ Practical Takeaways: What You Can Learn from John Wick’s Techniques

Want to channel your inner Wick? Here’s what you can apply:

  • Train multiple disciplines: blending striking, grappling, and weapons.
  • Focus on efficiency: every move should have a purpose.
  • Condition your body and mind: stamina and calmness are key.
  • Practice situational awareness: always be ready to adapt.

Remember, John Wick’s style is about practicality and survival, not flashy moves. Start with basics and build your own hybrid style!

🏆 Top Martial Arts Gear Inspired by John Wick’s Style

To train like John Wick, you need gear that’s durable, versatile, and functional. Here’s a quick rating table of some top picks:

Gear Item Design Functionality Durability Overall Rating
Venum Contender 2.0 MMA Gloves 9 9 8 8.7
Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves 9 10 9 9.3
Cold Steel Recon 1 Tactical Knife 8 10 9 9.0
5.11 Tactical Rush 24 Backpack 9 9 10 9.3

Why These Gear Choices?

  • Venum and Hayabusa gloves offer protection and mobility for striking and grappling drills.
  • Cold Steel Recon 1 is a favorite for tactical knife training, mirroring John Wick’s preference for reliable blades.
  • 5.11 Tactical backpacks are rugged and practical for carrying training gear or everyday carry items.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

🎯 Conclusion: The Ultimate Martial Arts Fusion of John Wick

So, what have we learned from this deep dive into John Wick’s martial arts arsenal? Simply put, John Wick is the perfect storm of martial arts mastery, blending Gun Fu’s tactical gunplay, Judo’s throws, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s ground control, and the lethal precision of Filipino Kali and Silat. Add in the fluidity of Kung Fu, the aggression of Sambo, and the stealth of Ninjutsu, and you get a combat style that’s as practical as it is cinematic.

From our perspective at Karate MMA™, this hybrid approach is what sets John Wick apart from typical action heroes. It’s not just about flashy moves — it’s about efficiency, adaptability, and lethal precision. Keanu Reeves’ dedication to training across multiple disciplines, combined with expert choreography, has created a fighting style that’s both believable and inspiring.

If you’re looking to emulate John Wick, focus on cross-training, mastering fundamentals, and developing a mindset that values calm, focus, and adaptability. Whether you’re a martial artist or an action movie fan, John Wick’s style offers a masterclass in blending tradition with innovation.

Ready to take your training to the next level? Dive into the martial arts that make John Wick unstoppable — and maybe pick up a few tactical gear essentials while you’re at it!

👉 Shop Martial Arts Gear Inspired by John Wick:

Must-Read Books on Martial Arts and Combat:

  • Bruce Lee: Artist of Life by John Little — Amazon
  • The Filipino Martial Arts by Mark V. Wiley — Amazon
  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Theory and Technique by Renzo Gracie — Amazon
  • Judo Unleashed by Neil Ohlenkamp — Amazon
  • The Art of War by Sun Tzu (for mindset and strategy) — Amazon

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About John Wick’s Martial Arts Answered

What martial arts style is used in the John Wick movies?

John Wick’s fighting style is a hybrid of multiple martial arts, including Gun Fu (firearms + martial arts), Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Filipino Kali, Kung Fu, Sambo, Shoot Wrestling, Aikido, Ninjutsu, and Silat. This fusion creates a versatile and lethal combat system tailored for cinematic storytelling and practical efficiency.

Is John Wick a black belt in real life?

Keanu Reeves, who portrays John Wick, is not a black belt in any single martial art, but he has undergone extensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and other disciplines to prepare for the role. His dedication to training with experts like the Machado brothers and fight choreographers has earned him respect as a highly skilled martial artist on screen.

What kind of combat training does Keanu Reeves have?

Keanu Reeves trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, firearms handling, knife fighting (Filipino Kali), and conditioning for stamina and fight endurance. He also worked closely with fight choreographers to blend these skills into the fluid, realistic style seen in the films.

How does John Wick’s martial arts training contribute to his fighting style?

The diverse martial arts training allows John Wick to adapt to any combat situation, seamlessly switching between striking, grappling, weapon use, and tactical gunplay. This versatility makes him unpredictable and highly efficient, embodying Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do philosophy of “absorbing what is useful.”

What are the most effective martial arts for self-defense like John Wick?

For practical self-defense inspired by John Wick, focus on:

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for ground control and submissions
  • Judo for throws and takedowns
  • Filipino Kali for weapon defense and knife skills
  • Krav Maga or Muay Thai for striking and real-world combat scenarios
    Cross-training in these arts builds a well-rounded skill set.

Can you learn the martial arts moves from John Wick in a real karate class?

While traditional karate classes teach striking fundamentals, John Wick’s style is a blend of many martial arts. To learn moves similar to John Wick’s, you’d need to supplement karate with Judo, BJJ, Kali, and tactical firearms training. Many MMA gyms and specialized self-defense schools offer such cross-training.

What other action movies feature advanced martial arts techniques like John Wick?

If you love John Wick’s realistic and stylish fight scenes, check out:

  • The Raid series (Silat and Indonesian martial arts)
  • Ip Man series (Wing Chun Kung Fu)
  • Equilibrium (Gun Fu and tactical combat)
  • The Matrix series (Jeet Kune Do and wire-fu)
  • Flash Point (Donnie Yen’s MMA-influenced choreography)

Ready to train like John Wick? Keep exploring, stay sharp, and remember — in martial arts, as in life, efficiency and adaptability rule the day! 🥋🔥

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