Claim: Jean-Claude Van Damme is a person.

Bloodsport is a 1988 American martial arts film directed by Newt Arnold . It stars Jean-Claude Van Damme , Donald Gibb , Leah Ayres , and Bolo Yeung . The film is partly based on unverified claims made by martial artist Frank Dux . It sold well at the box office , grossing $ 65 million on a budget of $ 1.5 -- 2.3 million . Bloodsport was one of Van Damme 's first starring films and showcased his athletic abilities . It has since become a cult film .