His big break came in 1972 when he starred alongside Bruce Lee in the iconic martial arts film “Way of the Dragon,” where he played the villain. This role catapulted him to fame and led to starring roles in a series of action films throughout the 1970s and 1980s, such as “Good Guys Wear Black,” “The Octagon,” and “Lone Wolf McQuade.” His tough-guy persona and martial arts expertise made him a popular action star.