He may be an accomplished martial artist on the big screen, but in real life, Jet Li struggled for years to perfect the art of courtship.

Recently, the superstar opened up about his marriage and shared the practical promise that won him the hand of his wife, Miss Asia Pageant winner Nina Li, reported Yesky.com via Jaynestars.

Jet and Nina met while collaborating on the 1989 film Dragon Fight.

At the time, he was still married to his first wife but they eventually got a divorce in 1990. In later interviews, he reflected that he did not truly know what love was and only married to repay his wife for her love and financial support during his early career.

Fortunately for him, he did find true love when he got together with Nina, who gained popularity thanks to her beauty and svelte figure and went on to feature in many films during the late 80s.

Considering Li's a private person who rarely discusses his family or personal life with the media, it was a surprise when he spoke up on his own travails in love on an episode of reality talent show Amazing Chinese.

In a bid to help a contestant propose to his girlfriend, Li revealed how he won over Nina's heart -- despite being the least remarkable one among her many suitors.

"She had many suitors, and I happen to be the least remarkable. Being good at martial arts did not help at all," he said.

What finally won Nina's heart, he added, was just a simple promise: "From now on, I will give you every cent I earn!"

While it may seem unromantic by today's standards, Jet's willingness to give up his assets in exchange for her love exudes old-fashioned loyalty and commitment.

Moved by Jet's sincere promise, Nina married Jet in 1999 and the two continue to share a happy and loving marriage to this day.

Go to Lollipop for more stories.

Click on the gallery below for more photos of Jet Li and his wife Nina Li Chi through the years.

(Photos: Oriental Daily News, Apple Daily, Warner Bros, Lollipop)