Dave's fascination with martial arts began after being captivated by the cinematic mastery of Bruce Lee. This newfound passion led him to embark on a journey in the world of combat sports, commencing his boxing career at the tender age of 14.
As he continued to hone his skills, Dave made his debut in Thai Boxing at 14, with his first professional match unfolding when he was just 18 years old. The following year, in 1997, he relocated to Thailand, where he intensified his training and fighting endeavors.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dave participated in an astonishing 68 matches before ultimately retiring from professional fighting at the age of 24. Despite hanging up his gloves, he remained committed to his craft, continuing to train and perfect his skills.
Beyond his impressive fighting credentials, Dave's proficiency in the Thai language and his marriage to a renowned Thai actress have further enriched his life. This cultural immersion has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his identity and artistic pursuits.
Dave's big break arrived when he was approached to star in the critically acclaimed film Ong Bak, with the production team seeking an actor capable of withstanding intense physical punishment. This pivotal role marked the beginning of a lucrative and action-packed career in the film industry.
Since then, Dave has collaborated with some of the most esteemed names in the business, including martial arts legends Jackie Chan, Donnie Yen, and Tony Jaa. His versatility as an actor and stunt performer has solidified his position as a respected figure in the world of martial arts cinema.