Ian’s journey began in Coventry, England. As a child, Ian described himself as shy and scared, someone who ran away from conflict rather than towards it. “I thought I’d live my entire life running from things,” he admitted. But this wasn’t the life he wanted. Inspired by martial arts icons like Bruce Lee, Ian began training, not necessarily to win fights but to build confidence. “I thought learning to fight would solve everything,” Ian said, “but what I really needed was to learn how to be violent when it mattered.” This realisation shaped his approach as he transitioned from a martial artist to someone capable of handling the brutal realities of working the door.
Life as a Bouncer: The Realities of Violence
Ian spent 15 years as a bouncer, an environment where he learned the fine line between control and chaos. Unlike the structured fights of the dojo or ring, door work brought an unpredictable and often dangerous kind of violence. Ian described street violence as nothing like what people see in films or competitions. “Street fights aren’t fights; they’re bursts of violence that last seconds,” he explained. His job wasn’t about showcasing skill but about ending altercations before they escalated. This often meant making snap decisions, some of which haunted him for years.
The Psychological Toll of Working the Door
Despite his tough exterior, Ian revealed the emotional toll of his work. “I’d go home, look at my son sleeping, and cry,” he shared. Every punch he threw and every altercation he diffused weighed heavily on him, especially when he considered the potential consequences of his actions. Ian’s reflections show that working as a bouncer is not merely a physical challenge but also a psychological one.
Martial Arts: A Lifeline to Confidence
Martial arts weren’t just a skillset for Ian; they were a form of self-expression and discipline. Over time, Ian moved away from the violence associated with door work and found solace in the competitive and artistic aspects of karate. “I’d tell anyone to remove the ‘self-defence’ label from martial arts,” Ian advised. “Enjoy it for the art, the fitness, and the confidence it brings.”
A Retro Gaming Icon: The Birth of Angus McGregor
Ian’s unexpected rise as a gaming character adds a layer of humour and intrigue to his life story. Cast as Angus McGregor in the retro game Kuma Ninja, Ian’s unique blend of martial arts and creativity brought to life a Scottish brawler who fights with an unconventional weapon – a fireball unleashed by lifting his kilt. His gaming fame didn’t stop there. Ian also contributed to motion capture for games like Batman & Robin and Fantastic Four. Though the games weren’t commercial hits, they’ve since gained a cult following, cementing Ian’s place in gaming history.
Lessons from a Life of Transformation
Ian’s story isn’t just about martial arts, bouncing, or video games. It’s about resilience, transformation, and the ability to face life’s challenges head-on. For Ian, confidence was the most valuable lesson he learned through his experiences. Whether it’s walking away from a fight or tackling a personal challenge, confidence is what helps us navigate life’s toughest moments.
Why Violence Is Always a Last Resort
Despite his experiences, Ian is adamant that violence should always be a last resort. “The best defence is knowing when to walk away,” he said. This wisdom, hard-earned from years on the door, resonates with anyone who has faced difficult situations.
The Power of Reinvention
From a bullied child to a martial artist, bouncer, and gaming icon, Ian’s life is proof that reinvention is possible at any stage. His ability to pivot from door work to a career in fitness and entertainment showcases the power of adaptability.
What’s Next for Ian McCrory?
Today, Ian is focused on promoting his book, Fighting With Myself, a raw and candid memoir about his life. Plans are also in motion to adapt his story into a film or TV series, a project Ian is incredibly excited about. Additionally, he remains connected to the retro gaming community, where his character Angus McGregor continues to entertain fans worldwide.
Final Thoughts: Ian McCrory’s Inspiring Journey
Ian McCrory’s story is a testament to the complexity of human strength. Behind the brawn is a man who has faced his insecurities, navigated immense challenges, and emerged with wisdom worth sharing. Whether you’re a fan of martial arts, retro gaming, or simply a great life story, Ian’s journey offers inspiration for us all.
Want to learn more? Check out Ian’s book Fighting With Myself and stay tuned for updates on the upcoming film or series adaptation of his life.