Chuck Norris, a renowned American martial artist who starred in martial arts films such as “The Way of the Dragon” alongside Bruce Lee, recently surprised everyone by effortlessly lifting a 595-pound (approximately 270-kilogram) barbell at the age of 84.
This year marks the 51st anniversary of the passing of Hong Kong martial arts legend Bruce Lee, who had a hand in promoting many international action stars during his lifetime, including Chuck Norris. In the movie “The Way of the Dragon” directed by Bruce Lee, Norris portrayed a karate expert who faced off against Lee in a legendary fight scene set in a Roman colosseum.
Born Carlos Ray Norris in 1940 in Oklahoma, Chuck joined the United States Air Force in 1958 and had the opportunity to practice Tang Soo Do (a traditional Korean martial art) at the Osan Air Base in South Korea. His nickname “Chuck” was earned during his time in Korea. After his military service, Chuck participated in the World Karate Championships in 1968, catching the attention of Bruce Lee, who was famous for the TV series “The Green Hornet” at that time. Over the next two years, they developed a friendship and trained together until Bruce Lee returned to Hong Kong to continue his film career.
Chuck, who is not only a martial artist but also an actor, screenwriter, and producer, went on to star in several action films such as “Lone Wolf McQuade” (1983), “Missing in Action” (1984), and “The Delta Force” (1986). In 1993, he began starring in the TV series “Walker, Texas Ranger.” In 2012, he appeared in the American war action film “The Expendables 2.”
Recently, Chuck shared a video on Instagram of himself lifting the heavy barbell. With his white hair and full beard, he effortlessly lifted the 595-pound barbell in the gym. His son asked him what he was doing, to which Chuck casually replied, “Just warming up.” His son, observing, remarked, “Oh, I see, can’t stop you from finding joy.”
After the video was posted, fans expressed disbelief and admiration, calling him “amazing” for his strength and agility at 84 years old.