His fight scenes are so intense that he won't film them in the U.S. for fear of being sued.
In 1989, he was sued for "wilfully" gouging the eye of an extra in a swordfight while filming Cyborg (1989).
Won a court case filed against him by martial arts legend Frank Dux, who claimed he collaborated with Van Damme on his 1996 directorial debut The Quest (1996/I), only for Van Damme to deny him any share of the profits. His evidence was lost in an earthquake. Coincidentally, Van Damme played Dux in his debut Bloodsport (1988).
Former European Professional Karate Association middleweight champion.
On July 10, 2000, Van Damme was sentenced to a 90 day anti-drunk-driving class, $1,2000 fine, 3 years probation and a 90 day revocation of his license after pleading no contest in Beverly Hills for a September 23, 1999 DUI arrest.
Once said he learned to speak English by watching the cartoon "The Flintstones" (1960).
In Jesse Ventura's book, he mentions Van Damme as having played Predator (1987) monster until he was fired and replaced by Kevin Peter Hall.
Studied classical ballet for five years
Speaks English, French, Spanish and German.
In his late teens he opened a Gym called California Fitness Center.
Was student of Dominique Valera.
Was a European Middle Weight Champion in Karate in his late teens.
Speaks Flemish.
Likes classical music and his favorite composer is Beethoven.
He became a European Karate Champion in 1979 and went to USA to win the World Championship. He didn't win. Few months later he had a rematch with the opponent he lost against in World Championship and he won in less than 2 minutes.
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