In an interview with Le Figaro, French taekwondo champion Pascal Gentil paid tribute to the iconic martial artist and Hollywood actor Chuck Norris, who passed away at the age of 86. Gentil, a double Olympic medalist, expressed his admiration for Norris, who was not only a prominent actor but also a distinguished martial artist, having achieved the 8th dan in taekwondo, which secures his status as a grand master in the discipline. Norris's prowess in various martial arts disciplines including karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu was well known, making him a legendary figure in the martial arts community.

Gentil reflected on how inspiring Norris's career was, not just in terms of his achievements but also his role as a mentor and a model for many fighters, including those in the taekwondo community. He remarked on the hypothetical matchup between himself and Norris, highlighting the respect he has for Norris's skills and contributions to martial arts. This sentiment mirrors the broader appreciation among martial artists for Norris, whose career spanned decades and who became an embodiment of the martial arts spirit in popular culture.

As the news of Norris's death reverberates through the martial arts world, figures like Gentil underscore the profound impact Norris had on the sport and its athletes. Norris's legacy is not just as a movie star but as a pioneer who elevated martial arts' status globally. His passing represents a significant loss to the martial arts community, with many remembering him for his skills, roles on screen, and his dedication to teaching and promoting martial arts across the globe.