American Shaolin

During pre-championship training at the Jersey Shore, Trevor Gottitall demonstrates his ruthless style by defeating an opponent when the opponent's pants unexpectedly fall. The humiliation moment underscores Trevor's willingness to exploit an opponent's embarrassment. Trevor's trainer adds that winning isn't enough; a fighter must instill fear through humiliation.

Drew Carson earns a place in the Jersey Shore Championship finals to face Trevor. In the final match, Trevor strips Drew of his pants, leaving him in briefs and floor-bound. The audience roars with laughter as Trevor secures the win, deepening Drew's resolve to seek real training.

After the humiliating loss, Master Kwan reveals that he is not actually a Shaolin monk and never passed on authentic Shaolin kung fu to Drew. The confession explains the gap in Drew's training and fuels his hunger for genuine mastery. This revelation pushes Drew toward a quest for real Shaolin instruction.

Determined to learn the real art, Drew leaves for China to seek genuine Shaolin instruction. He hopes to uncover the deeper discipline and techniques missing from his prior lessons. This journey marks the beginning of his true martial-arts education.

Drew arrives at the Shaolin Temple and is initially barred from entry by the monks. Ashena, a tea shop waitress, and an old monk offer help and advice, encouraging him to wait and prove himself. After a week of perseverance, he earns a chance to be assessed for entry.

The old monk is revealed to be Master San De, the temple abbot, who begins Drew's formal Shaolin training alongside other apprentices. The rigorous regimen pushes Drew beyond his comfort zone. This marks the start of his authentic Shaolin education.

Drew's American temperament clashes with the temple's tranquility and with fellow student Gao. Through hard training, discipline, and inner work, he gradually improves in both fighting and character. The process tests his resolve but builds his humility.

Drew forms a friendship with Gao, which helps him balance power with patience. Their bond deepens his understanding of the Shaolin path as he absorbs new techniques. The two train together, reinforcing discipline and perseverance.

Drew faces the Test of Spirituality and the Test of the Chamber, proving inner focus, endurance, and mastery of inner strength. Successfully passing these rites confirms his status as a full-fledged Shaolin apprentice. His acceptance marks a significant milestone in his journey.

Having earned his place, Drew travels with Ashena and the abbot to Shanghai for a martial arts tournament. This journey marks his first major appearance on an international stage as a Shaolin representative. The delegation carries the weight of Shaolin tradition into the competition.

At the Shanghai tournament, Trevor taunts Drew before facing Gao. Gao initially gains the upper hand, but Trevor resorts to dirty fighting to subdue him. Trevor drives Gao out of the ring, heightening the tension for the upcoming rematch.

Encouraged by Master San De and guided by Shaolin ethics, Drew agrees to enter the ring to confront Trevor. He initially refuses on the principle of non-violence, but the abbot's support compels him to act. This decision marks the turning point toward the final showdown.

Trevor pantsies Drew again, but Drew endures and fights back with resolve. He defeats Trevor and extends a hand to him in a show of mercy. The crowd roars for Shaolin as Master San De proclaims the future of Shaolin.