Contrary to what most of us would believe, there is a far deeper connection between martial arts and celebrities.

While some famous people engage in the sessions to maintain their physical fitness and strength, others do it out of pure passion for martial arts and the thrill of it all. Here are some celebrities that often engage in combat sports

Robert Downey Jr

Robert is a major movie star and one of the highest-paid actors. He did, however, experience some personal demons at some point in his life, just like many of us.

He claims that practising Wing Chun has contributed significantly to his discipline, and he has a deep, everlasting love for the martial art. A few years prior to the release of the first Iron Man movie, RDJ began developing his martial arts skills.

In fact, he spent a lot of time studying with renowned Wing Chun practitioner Eric Oram when Sherlock Holmes was being filmed, often up to six times per week.

Vladmir Putin

Amongst the most famous personalities in this list who takes MMA lessons is the Russia president Vladmir Putin. Putin has always been interested in martial arts. He possesses a black belt in judo, and according to many, he has been practising the art for more than 40 years. Furthermore, Putin may be seen in numerous movies using Judo techniques while wearing a gi.

According to some experts, Putin is legitimate, and his technique is quite effective. Putin is a passionate martial arts enthusiast as well, and he frequently attends the Olympics to cheer on Russian judo participants.

Wiz Khalifa

Wiz is renowned primarily for leading a wild and unhealthy lifestyle. You'll thus be amazed to hear that he has time for some serious martial arts training in addition to his work as a musician and his public passion for marijuana.

Wiz claims that he first began training consistently for a few months with BJJ. But when he started practising Muay Thai, he really got the bug and is now working out for up to three hours every day. That involves pad workouts with Muay Thai legend Saenchai.

Henry Cavil

Henry Cavill, a British actor, is best known for playing Superman in the DC Extended Universe film series. While Henry Cavill seems to have given Superman a new approach, the Man of Steel may not be known for his prowess in the ring.

Cavill regularly practises Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and frequently competes alongside legends of the game like Roger and Renzo Gracie. Although he has some boxing experience as well, BJJ is his primary love.

To use Cavill's own words: “Jiu-Jitsu has a way of kicking your arse and making you love it for the lessons you learned! Kinda like mother nature… or a big brother whom you annoyed one too many times. So good to be back on the mats.”

Ed O’Neil

The American actor and comedian is best known for playing Al Bundy in the television series "Married with Children" and Jay in " Modern Family." But Ed is also well-liked and respected in the martial arts community since he is a black belt.

Ed O'Neill is a black belt in BJJ. And not just just anyone - O'Neill earned his black belt under Rorion Gracie in 2007.

Rorion is one of the few persons on earth with a 9th-degree red belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a well-known member of the Gracie family. He is also well regarded as one of the pioneers who brought Brazilian Jiu-jitsu to America.