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Mortal KombatMortal Kombat II

 
 
I mean look at this. Don't the rainbow colors on these mountains just scream Outworld?
 

 

—Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat 1.

Jonathan Carlton,[5] better known by his stage name Johnny Cage, is a character in the Mortal Kombat fighting game series. A famous actor and martial artist, Johnny Cage as remained one of the franchise's most cherished characters and serves as a central character along the likes of Raiden and Liu Kang.

Johnny Cage made his debut as one of the seven original characters in the first Mortal Kombat arcade game and has remained a long standing playable character in the franchise. He appears in Mortal Kombat (2011), a reboot of the series as a supporting character in the game's Story Mode, a role he reprises in later games.

A new version of Johnny Cage returns in Mortal Kombat 1 as a playable character, again serving as a supporting character in the game's Story Mode.

About Johnny Cage

Initially, Johnny Cage was a struggling Hollywood action movie star who sought to revitalize his career and reputation. He entered the Mortal Kombat tournament for the sole purpose of displaying his fighting skills and proving himself to skeptical film critics, as they believed Cage was nothing more than an actor who relied too much on stunts and camera work, and was not really a proficient fighter. Eventually, he would become one of the most important defenders of Earthrealm. Despite his materialism, airheadedness, and occasional immaturity, Cage is a brave and loyal warrior, although his antics frequently annoy his allies. For this reason, fans consider him to be the series' foremost comic relief character.

Johnny matures considerably by the time of Mortal Kombat X, losing much of his earlier arrogance and shortsightedness. In the process, he becomes an overall well rounded and serious character, although his penchant for humor remains mostly intact. He maintains this persona in Mortal Kombat 11, complemented by the additional presence of his past self, who shares his former cockiness and brash traits. In the Aftermath expansion, a past Johnny Cage becomes serious during his confrontations with Sindel and Shao Kahn.

In a new timeline, Cage is once again a struggling actor due to his expensive lifestyle which drove his ex-wife Cristina away. One of the expensive purchases he made was the Takahashi clan's sacred sword, Sento, which was since lost from their hands since ancient times. After he and Kenshi fight for possession of the sword, Fire God Liu Kang recruits them alongside Kung Lao and Raiden to serve as Earthrealm's champions in the Mortal Kombat tournament. This also develop a friendship between him and Kenshi after he saved him during their fight with Mileena in Shang Tsung's Lab. He matures during their travels, becoming a stable member of the Earthrealm champions while assisting Liu Kang in damaging times.

About Johnny Cage as Janet Cage

In the new timeline, in the second Battle of Armageddon, Liu Kang and his chosen ally may stubble across multiple timeline variants of many characters in the series, including one Janet Cage, a female variant of Johnny from an another unknown timeline. The character retains many aspects of Johnny Cage from the three timelines shown in the series, however little is known about the character. Unlike the current version of Johnny Cage, she retains the green Mediterranean magic that surrounds her body when attacking from previous timelines.

Appearance

Johnny Cage is depicted as the typical American action movie star: bare muscular build with tight pants and his trademark sunglasses. In his debut, his clothing was modeled directly after Jean-Claude Van Damme's character in Bloodsport, consisting of black shorts with a red sash and black shoes.[6] From MKII to MK4, he is depicted with black pants with blue accents. Johnny Cage wears his shades, with blue forearm guards, shin guards, and belt. He has black tights with white horizontal stripes on the sides of his thighs, and black Adidas shoes with white stripes.

In Deadly Alliance and Armageddon onwards, his design becomes a fusion of his first and familiar appearances, regaining the black shorts, but with a Cage emblem and blue belt tied at his waist. He goes barefoot with bandage straps. Interestingly, he has dyed his brown hair blond. Cage also now sports a chinese Dragon tattoo on his back.

Alternate costume: He wears a tuxedo.

In MK 2011, he has a similar outfit from MKII, but with slight changes: he keeps his sunglasses on all the time, his chest is tattooed with his first name, he has straps on his arms and hands, his pants' accents are blue, and his last name is engraved onto his belt buckle.

In MKX, 20 years prior to the main events of the game, he sports a military vest and pants. His default form in the same game features him with a short sleeved hoodie, along with a grayish blue shirt that partially covers his chest tattoo. He also has bandages wrapped around his wrists and black fingerless gloves. Cage's hair has begun to gray as well.

In MK11, a present Johnny Cage retains his military appearance from the last game, but now sports an olive green vest along with a dark gray long sleeved shirt that fully covers his chest tattoo. He also wears knee pads and military boots, along with dog tags around his neck and a pistol on his hip. A young Johnny Cage wears his Mortal Kombat (2011) outfit, but he now sports a blue and purple jacket and purple-framed sunglasses. They also retained their last name on his belt, which can be customized. During the Black Dragon infiltration of the Special Forces base, the young Johnny Cage's left cheek is badly grazed by a bullet, causing a faded scar to appear on the older Cage's face, this however was healed in the Aftermath expansion.

In MK1, Johnny Cage sports formal clothing with purple shirt with visible black dots, black slacks, and brown shoes. His hair is combed on left side part similar to MK (1992) to MK4. He later wears a tactical suit with blue accents during their investigation on Outworld.

Character Development

Cage was modelled after the Belgian actor, Jean-Claude Van Damme. The creators wanted Van Damme to be Johnny Cage in the first Mortal Kombat, but Van Damme was unavailable due to his movie work. Johnny Cage's clothes in the first Mortal Kombat are almost identical to the clothes Van Damme wore in the last match in the 1988 film Bloodsport. Cage's split punch, Nutcracker, as well as "Blood Spurt" Brutality are also inspired by the film. Johnny Cage will soon be receive a Jean-Claude Van Damme skin in Mortal Kombat 1 as part of the Kombat Pack DLC.

Johnny Cage's film Ninja Mime is most likely inspired by the opening scenes from the action film The Quest in which the hero, also portrayed by Van Damme, dressed like a mime, evades authorities using martial arts-like moves.

According to Daniel Pesina, the original portrayer of Cage, the character was additionally modeled after Daniel Rand of Marvel’s Iron Fist franchise.[7] Additionally, he shares the last name with Luke Cage of Power Man and Iron Fist. He shares this trait, among others in later titles, with actor Nicolas Cage.

Johnny Cage was the first character created for the first Mortal Kombat. The test prototype had two Johnny Cages fighting each other.[8] Despite this, he was ironically the last character to be given a Fatality in that game. Until a last-minute brainstorm by co-creator John Tobias that later evolved into the Head Pop Fatality, he was simply going to throw his opponent across the screen.[9] However in 2018, Daniel Pesina countered this, claiming the finisher was the first one created by himself.[10]

Combat Characteristics

Abilities

Despite his superficially materialist demeanor, Johnny Cage is a strong, agile and capable warrior, showing an excellent fighting technique during battle. After long periods of training with various masters of martial arts, Cage himself has acquired mastery of several unique fighting styles, such as the famous Karate. He is also trained in the use of firearms and military equipment ranging from pistols, battle rifles and even armored tanks.

Although Cage is a human being, he possesses superhuman powers. According to MK 2011, going onto X, Johnny descended from a Mediterranean war cult that bred warriors fit to protect and serve the gods: warriors with special abilities. One of which was to propel himself forward and increase the strength of his blows. When Cage uses this power, afterimages of a green color are produced. Cage can augment the power of these shadow attacks, which are represented by afterimages of a red color. In addition to these physical shadow abilities, Cage also has the ability to launch blasts of energy.

As shown in the Story Mode of Mortal Kombat X, Cage can also harness this energy and encase his body with it, strong enough to withstand a death blow from Shinnok without receiving any injury to his person. This energy was also potent enough to allow him to fight on equal terms with the Elder God. Raiden theorized that this power can only come about when the want arises to protect a loved one from imminent danger.

Cage is one of the few kombatants to utilize unorthodox tactics alongside Erron Black. Similar to the enemy gunslinger, he utilizes odd weaponry such as a camera that emits flashes of light that disorients others and a pair of explosive sunglasses. He has a tendency to implement Hollywood inspired attacks into his fighting styles, such as creating clones known as Stunt Doubles (he uses actual stunt doubles in later installments) to attack his enemies and using props as deadly weapons. Cage is also infamous for his signature "Nut Punch" attack, which he proudly flaunts for its effectiveness despite the condemnation of those around him.

In Mortal Kombat 1, Cage no longer has the power of the Mediterranean cult magic and instead has a hype meter in which enhance his special moves.

Signature Moves

  • Green Shadow Kick: Cage slides across the floor with one foot at a steady speed, followed by a green-colored afterimage and connects with a kick to the torso of his opponent with the other one. In MK 2011, MKX, MK11 and MK1, the attack is called Shadow Kick, however, he keeps the green trail with the exception of the MK1 version of the attack. In MK1, Johnny can perform an additional version of the attack, called Shadow Kick (Hype), in which Johnny flexes his leg in a circle to generate Hype. This version can only be performed after successfully connecting on the opponent. Johnny is completely vulnerable while building Hype. (MK, MKII, MKT, MK4, MKG, MK:SM, MK:DA, MK:TE, MK:A, MK 2011, MKX, MK11, MK1)
    • In MKX, the enhanced version is called Eclipse Kick, just like in MK 2011, but keeps its green trail, which grants armor and deals increased damage. Additionally, the travel distance is increased, allowing Johnny to strike the opponent full-distance
      • Flashy Shadow Kick: An alternate version of Johnny's regular Shadow Kick that allows him to charge it and cancel out of the charge with a dash or run. The longer the attack is charged, the more damage it will inflict and the farther it will travel across the screen. The move is also boosted during Red Shadow Mode. This replaces Shadow Kick in Cage's A-List variation. (MKX - A-List Variation)
        • The enhanced version is still called Eclipse Kick and is unchanged from the original Shadow Kick.
    • In MK1, enhancing the attack grants armor and increased damage.
      • Red Shadow Kick: The more powerful incarnation of the Green Shadow Kick, which leaves a red trail. This is the enhanced version of the Shadow Kick in MK 2011 and is called Eclipse Kick, the range and damage of this technique is increased, and Johnny is armored while performing the kick. After the attack is performed, Johnny sometimes says "You got Caged!" or "Watch this!". In MKX, this attack becomes available during Red Shadow Mode. (MKT, MK4, MKG, MK 2011, MKX)
  • Straight Force-ball: Johnny shoots a Force-ball in a straight direction at his opponent. This attack misses ducking opponents. In MKX, the attack is called Straight Forceball and replaces both his High Forceball and Low Forceball in the Stunt Double Variation. In MK11, this attack is called Forceball. (MK, MKX - Stunt Double Variation, MK11)
    • In MKX, enhancing the attack has Johnny send a second Forceball for increased damage. This second Forceball however can still miss ducking opponents. When used in the corner of an arena with juggle effects, Johnny Cage can continue combos. Additionally, Johnny is very safe if this version of the attack is blocked by the opponent.
    • In MK11, amplifying the attack has Johnny send another Forceball at the opponent for increased damage.
  • Plasmic Bolt: Cage shoots a green orb of energy in upward direction at the enemy. In Deadly Alliance the screen shakes if the projectile hits the opponent, while in Armageddon the screen will not shake. In MK 2011, MKX and MK11 this is called Low Forceball. In MK11, this is an Equip Ability and replaces Forceball when equipped. (MKII, MKT, MK4, MKG, MK:DA, MK:TE, MK:SM, MK:A, MK 2011, MKX, MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • The enhanced version in MK 2011 is Double Low Ball and in MKX it is Double Low Force-ball. In both games, Johnny fires a second ball in a straight direction.
    • In MK11, amplifying the attack has Johnny fire a second ball in the same arc. Additionally, Johnny can send the second Forceball in a higher arc at the opponent, however the damage is unchanged.
  • High Green Orb: Another version of the curved energy bolt. It is called High Force-ball in MK 2011, and High Forceball in MKX and MK11, respectively. In MK11, this is an Equip Ability and replaces Forceball when equipped. (MKII, MKT, MK4, MKG, MK 2011, MKX, MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • The enhanced version in MK 2011 is Double High Ball and in MKX it is Double High Forceball. In both games, Johnny fires a second ball in a straight direction.
    • The enhanced version is called Double Straight Force-ball and has Johnny shoot two Straight Force-balls in a row.
    • In MK11, amplifying the attack has Johnny fire a second ball in the same arc. Additionally, Johnny can send the second Forceball in a higher arc at the opponent, however the damage is unchanged.
  • Triple Green Orb: Johnny shoots three low green orbs one after another. (MK:SM)
  • Split Punch: One of Cage's most memorable moves where he does a split and punches the opponent in the groin. Originally, this attack only worked on male fighters. Against female fighters, instead of punching, he would simply do a split and stand back up. This was eventually changed in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks and allows the attack to be used on any fighter in every appearance afterwards. In MK 2011, MKX and MK11, the attack is called Nut Punch. In MK1, the attack is called Ball Buster. Johnny can perform an additional version of the attack, called Ball Buster (Hype), in which Johnny pulls down his sunglasses and smiles at the camera while doing the splits to generate Hype instead of attacking the opponent. This version can be performed at any time but leaves completely vulnerable while building Hype. Johnny can also dodge High attacks when timed correctly. (MK, MKII, MK4, MKG, MK:SM, MK 2011, MKX, MK11, MK1)
    • The enhanced version is called Nutcracker both in MK 2011 and MKX. In MK 2011 it turns Cage's fist green with energy, increasing its damage. In MKX, Johnny will follow up with an uppercut, dealing increased damage and launching the opponent into the air for a juggle. In Game Modes that grant Johnny unlimited use of Super Meter, Johnny will only be able to perform Nutcracker five times in a combo.
      • Nut Breaker: A different version of Nut Punch that allows Johnny Cage to charge up the attack, making his fist glow with green energy and increasing the damage of the attack. (MKX - A-List Variation)
        • The enhanced version is still called Nutcracker and is unchanged from the original Nut Punch. Additionally, Johnny can enhance the attack after connecting it if he wants to. Also, Johnny can enhance the attack after performing the fully charged version, dealing even more damage.
    • In MK11, amplifying the attack has Johnny follow-up with a mule kick to the face, dealing increased damage and launching the opponent into the air for a juggle.
      • If Johnny connects this attack as the first hit of the match or as a Punish, the attack turns into a Krushing Blow when amplified, where the kick to the face crushes the upper half of the opponent's skull inward, dealing increased damage and retaining the juggle effect. This Krushing Blow can only be triggered by one of these conditions once during the match.
    • In MK1, enhancing the attack cost two bars of Super Meter and grants Johnny immunity to any incoming attack in addition to re-standing the opponent. The opponent is susceptible to Ambush Kameo Attacks after connecting this version of the attack which can allow Johnny to continue combos when timed correctly.
  • Green Shadow Uppercut: Cage would leap and deliver an uppercut with his elbow which launched his foe into the air, leaving a green trail. In MK 2011 Cage uses this attack as his Breaker. In MKX, this attack id called Rising Shadow and replaces his Flipkick in the Stunt Double Variation. In MK11, this attack is called Rising Star and is an Equip Ability, replacing Flippy Kick when equipped. In MK1, it is again called Rising Star. Johnny can perform an additional version of the attack, called Rising Star (Hype), in which Johnny dances after connecting the attack to generate Hype. This version can only be performed after successfully connecting on the opponent. Johnny is completely vulnerable while building Hype. Additionally, with the use of Kameo Attacks, Johnny can continue combos in some instances when knocking the opponent into the air when timed correctly. (MKII, MKT, MK4, MKG, MK 2011, MKX - Stunt Double Variation, MK11 - Equip Ability, MK1)
    • Red Shadow Uppercut: A faster version of the move, which leaves a red trail. In MK 2011, this move is done after the Ultra Flipkick and after performing this move he will say "Johnny Cage!". In MKX, this can be performed during the Red Shadow Mode, which is the boosted version of the regular Rising Shadow. (MKT, MK4, MKG, MK:SM, MK 2011, MKX - Stunt Double Variation)
      • The enhanced version is called Shadow Dropkick, which grants armor and has Johnny kick the opponent to the ground twice while in the air, knocking them down and dealing increased damage.
      • In MK11, amplifying the attack has Johnny bring his leg down and knock the opponent to the ground, similar to his Stunt Double in MKX, dealing increased damage. Amplifying the attack on a blocking opponent, missing the attack or whiffing when amplified requires and spends both a bar of Offensive and Defensive Meter. When blocked by the opponent, this attack creates massive pushback.
      • In MK1, the enhanced version allows Johnny to follow up with aerial attacks.
  • Sliding Uppercut: Johnny Cage does the split and rises up quickly, delivering an uppercut to the opponent. This attack may resemble a combination of his Shadow Uppercut and Split Punch special attacks. (MK:DA, MK:TE, MK:A)
  • Flipkick: Cage does a somersault kick that launches his opponent into the air, leaving a green trail. This attack began as a command attack available in MK:DA. In MKX, Johnny can continue combos in some instances, but this window is very small. When used in the corner of an arena with juggle effects, this opportunity greatly increases. In MK11 this attack is called Flippy Kick and has armor breaking properties, ignoring the armor granted by specific abilities and Fatal Blows. (MK 2011, MKX, MK11)
    • The enhanced version is called Ultra Flipkick both in MK 2011 and MKX. In MK 2011 it leaves a red trail, as well as following up with a Red Shadow Uppercut.
    • In MKX, it deals increased damage. As with the original, Johnny can continue combos in some instances, but this window is very small. When used in the corner of an arena with juggle effects, this opportunity greatly increases.
    • In MK11, amplifying the move has Johnny perform another backflip kick mid-air and land into a split.
      • Rising Kick: An alternate version of Flipkick which allows Johnny Cage to charge it and cancel out of the charge with a dash or run. The longer this attack is charged, the more damage it will inflict. Additionally, Johnny will flip further at the opponent the longer it is charge. Also, unlike Flipkick, Johnny can continue combo when launching the opponent into the air with this version of the attack. This replaces Flipkick in the A-List Variation. (MKX - A-List Variation)
        • The enhanced version is still called Flipkick and is unchanged from the original Ultra Flipkick.
  • Fist Bump: Johnny slams his knuckles together, causing his custom Brass Knuckles to sparkle. During this time, Johnny Cage deals double the normal chip damage with all attacks. When used with his basic attacks and combos exclusive to the Fisticuffs Variation, this chip damage bonus is tripled for these attacks. Also, these basic attacks and combos deal increased damage. Additionally, while the effect is active, Johnny Cage gains a new Throw (See Below), dealing increase damage. In MK11, this attack is called Brass Knuckles and has Johnny pull out the knuckles and strike a pose instead. Additionally in MK11, the attack does not increase the damage of any of Johnny's attacks like in MKX but also makes Johnny completely vulnerable when pulling out the knuckles. This ability conflicts with Throwing Shades when equipped, disabling the option to select Throwing Shades. (MKX - Fisticuffs Variation, MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • Enhancing the attack simply allows Johnny to recover faster from performing the attack. In some instances, Johnny can continue combos when enhanced this way.
  • Mimic: Johnny creates two yellow shadow clones of himself around his body that mimic all his movements, referred to as his Stunt Doubles. The Doubles remain on Johnny indefinitely, even if he takes damage, however connecting or being struck by an X-Ray attack removes them. During this time, Johnny can send the Stunt Doubles to attack for him, performing some of his special attacks with improved properties. Once used, Johnny must wait some time before summoning the Stunt Doubles again. While Red Shadow Mode is active, the Stunt Doubles glow red instead. This replaces Flipkick in the Stunt Double Variation. In MK11, the attack is called Stunt Double and Johnny use literal Stunt Doubles to do new attacks for him. Similar to the MKX version of the attack, the Stunt Doubles will attack the opponent for Johnny Cage, however they perform their own attacks rather than mimicking some of Cage's. This ability replaces Shadow Kick when equipped, conflicts with Caged Rage when equipped, disabling the option to select Caged Rage, as well as requiring two ability slots to equip. (MKX - Stunt Double Variation, MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • Shadow Kick: In MKX, Johnny commands a Stunt Double to perform Shadow Kick. This version of the attack is slower than a normal Shadow Kick however this difference is extremely small. Additionally, this attack can hit ducking opponents unlike the original and Johnny is safe if this version of the attack is blocked by the opponent unlike the original Shadow Kick.
      • The enhanced version is called Eclipse Kick, which deals increased damage and allows the Stunt Double to strike the opponent at full-screen distance, however it does not grant armor like the original Eclipse Kick. Johnny us extremely safe when this version of the attack is blocked by the opponent.
    • Rising Shadow: In MKX, Johnny commands a Stunt Double to perform Rising Shadow. This version of the attack is much slower than a normal Rising Shadow, however the Stunt Double launches the opponent into the air for a juggle. Additionally, Johnny is safe if this version of the attack is blocked by the opponent unlike the original Rising Shadow.
      • The enhanced version is called Shadow Dropkick and only has the Stunt Double kick the opponent the ground once, bouncing them off the ground for a juggle instead of knocking them down to the ground. Additionally, Johnny is able to attack the opponent while the Double performs this attack. Also, Johnny is extremely safe if this version of the attack is blocked by the opponent unlike the original Shadow Dropkick.
    • Clothesline: In MK11, Johnny calls in a Stunt Double to clothesline the opponent, knocking them away.
      • Amplifying the attack has the Double knock the opponent into the air with the clothesline before flipping into the air and knocking them to the ground and away from Johnny full-screen distance while dealing increased damage. In some instances, the Stunt Double may miss the front flip slam, launching the opponent into the air for juggle. This opportunity is greatly increased while in the corner of an arena.
    • Stunt Double: In MK11, Johnny calls in a Stunt Double that comes up behind the opponent and sucker punches them in the back of the head, knocking them to the ground.
      • Amplifying the attack has the Double come up behind and put the opponent in a full nelson, dealing less damage but stunning the opponent and setting them up for a free hit.
  • Pissed Off: Johnny grabs the opponent by the face and delivers a series of quick punches before knocking the opponent away with a final quick punch. This attack is capable of striking airborne opponents, whether this being from a combo or the opponent jumping at Johnny. This attack has armor breaking properties, ignoring the armor granted by specific abilities and Fatal Blows. Unlike most armor breaking abilities, when breaking the armor of a Break Away, the attack will deal slightly less damage. (MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • Amplifying the attack has Johnny perform a flip kick coated in green energy, dealing increased damage. As with the original version, when breaking the armor of a Break Away, the attack will deal slightly less damage.
  • Mime Time: Johnny performs the "Trapped in a Box" mime routine. During this time, Johnny will parry any attack, with the exception of Low, Jump and Hop Attacks, projectiles and Fatal Blows. When parrying an attack, the opponent is stunned, where Johnny punches them in the face, grabs them and throws them in the opposite direction. The attack can be extended to increase window to parry attacks. Extending the attack requires and spends a bar of Offensive Meter. Johnny can extend the attack as many times as possible. (MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • Amplifying the attack after punching the opponent has Johnny bounce them off the ground for a juggle, however the damage remains the same.
    • If Johnny connects this attack as the first hit of the match or connects the attack after performing and connecting the extended version of the attack twice, the attack turns into a Krushing Blow on the second parry or any time after, where the punch to the face crushes the opponent's skull inward, dealing almost three times the original damage. The attack can still be amplified after, allowing Johnny to continue combos. This Krushing Blow can only be triggered by one of these conditions once during the match.
  • Throwing Shades: Johnny simply takes off his sunglasses and tosses them at the opponent's face. This attack is considered a projectile. This ability conflicts with Brass Knuckles when equipped, disabling the option to select Brass Knuckles. In MK1, the attack is called Throwing Shade, and has Johnny look at his sunglasses before tossing them way. Additionally in MK1, Johnny can perform an additional version of the attack, called Throwing Shade (Hype), in which Johnny tosses his sunglasses away before replacing them with new ones, generating Hype. This attack is disabled if Johnny does not have his sunglasses equipped when customizing him through the game's Kustomization. (MK11 - Equip Ability, MK1)
    • If Johnny connects this attack as the first hit of the match or uses this attack in a combo involving him canceling his Fatal Blow, the attack turns into a Krushing Blow, where the sunglasses crush the opponent's skull inward when hitting them in the face, dealing almost three times the original damage as well as briefly stunning the opponent and setting them up for a free hit. This Krushing Blow can only be triggered by one of these conditions once during the match.
    • In MK1, offers no change in the attack, however, the opponent cannot trigger their Breaker on this attack.
  • Say Cheese: Johnny pulls out a camera and takes a picture. If the opponent is close enough, they will take damage and stumble backwards from the flash. Similar to Nut Punch, the attack re-stands the opponent. This ability replaces Nut Punch when equipped and requires two ability slots to equip. (MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • Amplifying the attack slightly increases the distance of the flash. If the attack connects, it stuns the opponent, setting them up for a free hit, however it deals no additional damage. Connecting a second amplified Say Cheese knocks the opponent away.
    • If Johnny connects this attack as the first hit of the match or connects it after missing the attack previously three or more times, amplifying the attack after turns it into a Krushing Blow, with the flash being more intense, dealing almost three times the original damage. The stun effect remains the same. This Krushing Blow can only be triggered by one of these conditions once during the match.
  • Caged Rage: Johnny charges towards the opponent and gives a powerful right hook. This attack can miss ducking opponents. When blocked by the opponent, the effects of the this attack change. This ability conflicts with Stunt Double when equipped, disabling the option to select Stunt Double. (MK11 - Equip Ability)
    • First Time - Unchanged
    • Second Time - Johnny charges with his fist glowing green, dealing increased damage with an increased hitbox
    • Third Time - Johnny charges with his entire body glowing green, dealing nearly double the original damage with an increased hitbox, attack becomes unblockable
    • These effects reset if the attack misses or whiffs.
      • Amplifying any version the attack has Johnny follow-up with a flip kick, dealing increased damage.
  • Show Off: Johnny taunts the opponent. During this time, Johnny will parry any attack, with the exception of Low, Jump Attacks, projectiles and Fatal Blows. When parrying attacks this way, Johnny quickly moves behind the opponent and is offered a window to attack them. Performing attacks or combos on a parried opponent affects Johnny with significant Damage Scaling. Johnny can extend the time he taunts the opponent if he chooses to. Johnny builds Hype when parrying attacks. (MK1)
    • The enhanced version activates slightly faster, allowing Johnny to parry more attacks in different instances.
  • Shadow Dash: Johnny dashes forwards. If near the opponent, he dashes behind them. Johnny is vulnerable while dashing. This attack can be used as a mean to advance or retreat from the opponent. Johnny can dash twice if he chooses to. (MK1)
    • Enhancing the attack grants Johnny immunity to projectiles while dashing.
  • Hype: Johnny hypes himself up and gets the audience pumped for his performance. Johnny is also able to perform alternate versions of attacks that slightly increase his Hype Meter, as well as doing the Universal Taunt shared with every character. Once the meter is filled, Johnny can activate a new ability; (MK1)
    • Wowing Out: A spotlight shines above Johnny and the crowd cheers as he acknowledges them. During this time, Johnny can perform his special attacks up three times in a row, with the exception of his Fatal Blow. Additionally, performing any special attack will always perform their enhanced version without spending Super Meter, including all their enhanced properties. Johnny can also perform Kameo Attacks while performing special attacks this way. (MK1)

X-Ray/Fatal Blows

  • X-Ray - Ball Buster: Cage taunts his opponent. If, during this time, they attack him, he parries them and performs a triple Split Punch in the opponent's groin area. As they double up, he jumps and then slams his elbow on their back, dealing damage to their spine. There was a glitch that allowed him to do this over and over again without any energy in the Super Meter by staying crouched while holding down the block button, but the glitch has since been patched. It is also one of the few X-Ray moves that allow the player to continue their combo after doing it; though conversely, it cannot be used to finish off any combos as it requires the enemy to attack. (MK 2011)
  • X-Ray - Kasting Kall: Cage stuns the opponent with an axe kick and then delivers a roundhouse to their head, snapping their jaw. Then, Cage proceeds to slam their head into his knee with such force that it shatters their skull. To end it, Cage then does a backflip kick, dislocating the foe's jaw entirely and launching them upwards. An extremely brief juggle is created at the end of the X-Ray; otherwise, the opponent is knocked away. (MKX)
  • Fatal Blow - The Award Goes To: Cage starts by hitting the opponent with a charged palm strike after which he shadow kicks them in the gut and under their chin. Cage proceeds to land an overhead spinning kick, then backflips to kick them down face-first with his foot at the back of their head. He pulls out a trophy which is titled "Excellence Award; Best Actor" and strikes them away with it, causing the opponent to lie face-up and breaking off the base and part of the topper. With the broken trophy in his hand, he ends by stabbing them in the chest with it before back flipping away. (MK11)
  • Fatal Blow - That's All Folks: Cage uppercuts the opponent, walking up to the dazed opponent and grabbing them and slamming them face-first into the camera, shattering it as they fall to the ground. He then grabs it from the camera man as the opponent pleads and slams it down on their torso, shattering their ribcage in the process. (MK1)
    • Johnny can delay this attack, where he stands in place dancing. During this time, he can parry any and all attacks against him with the exception of projectiles, Kameo Attacks, or if the opponent attacks Johnny from behind. He can, however, parry projectiles if the opponent is close to Johnny when performing the projectile. Also, when delaying the attack, delaying the attack in its entirety makes it unblockable. Additionally, while delaying the attack, Johnny can perform Shadow Dash to cancel the attack and put his Fatal Blow on cooldown.

Other Moves

  • Throw: In older games, Cage would perform a very standard fighting-game-fare body throw. (MK, MKII, MKT, MK4, MKG)
  • Throw: Cage punches his foe twice, drops a low chop to their genitals, forcing them to lean forward, then either smashing them in the face with a glowing fist (Forward) or sidestepping around to kick them to the curb (Backward). (MK 2011)
  • Throw: Cage grabs his foe's wrist to snap their elbow, then grabs their ankle to snap their knee and knocks them away with a palm to the rib cage. (MKX)
  • Throw (Red Shadow Mode): Cage punches the opponent in the nose, gut and jaw and knocks them across the arena with a roundhouse kick to the stomach. This is also more damaging than his regular throw move. (MKX)
    • This is also performed if his Fist Bump buff is active, ignoring the health requirement. (MKX - Fisticuffs Variation)
  • Knee Bash: Cage grabs his foe in a headlock and quickly slams them with a knee kick. (MK4, MKG)
  • Pop Up: Cage performs a brutal, lightning-fast snapkick, launching his foe into the air for a juggle. In MKX it is known as Ax Kick, while in MK11 it is called Axe Kick, and in MK1 it is known as Footless. (MKII, MK 2011, MKX, MK11, MK1)
  • Speed Bag: Cage lands a series of quick punches to his opponent with both arms. This can last as long as the player taps the two punch buttons, but the combo will only go as far as 9 hits before resetting. (MKX - Fistcuffs Variation)
  • Force Punch: Johnny delivers a powerful punch coated with green energy that knocks the opponent away. The attack can be charged for increased damage or run-canceled before the attack connects. This replaces Strong Hand in the A-List variation. (MKX - A-List Variation)
    • Additionally, the attack has a slower activation and is no longer safe on block compared to Strong Hand.
  • Fatal Strike: Johnny performs two quick punches with the final slightly glowing green, knocking the opponent away. The final punch of the combo can be charged for increased damage or run-canceled before it connects. When performed in the corner, it allows a short juggle; otherwise the opponent is knocked away. This replaces Cross-Kutting in the A-List variation. (MKX - A-List Variation)
    • This combo activates quicker and is safe on block compared to Cross-Kutting.
  • Entertainer: Johnny knees his opponent then kicks them away full-screen distance. The final blow of the combo can be charged for increased damage or run-canceled before it connects. This replaces Kameo in the A-List variation. (MKX - A-List Variation)
    • Charging the final kick separates the combo into two moves. The full charged kick sends the opponent flying full screen much faster.
    • This combo is slower and much less safe compared to Kameo.
  • Red Shadow Mode: If Cage's health drops down to 5% or less, his specials and their enhanced versions will be boosted with more damage and leave behind red shadows instead of the regular green ones. Red Shadow specials are used by Cage in many games, with MKX being the first one in which they can only be performed under this condition. While at this health level, his basic throw will be altered with more damage as stated above. (MKX)
  • Throw (Forward): Cage punches his opponent in the head, knees them twice and sends them flying with a roundhouse. (MK11)
  • Throw (Backward): Cage punches his opponent in the stomach, snaps their arm and breaks their neck by grabbing under their neck and thrusting upwards before tossing them aside. (MK11)
  • Tear Jerker: Cage leads forward with his knee and performs a leapfrog jump, hitting the opponent with his feet. Johnny is completely vulnerable before performing the leapfrog, however he is extremely safe if the second hit is blocked by the opponent. Additionally, the second hit of this combo is capable of being Flawless Blocked, leaving Johnny completely vulnerable. (MK11)
    • If only the leapfrog kick connects, the combo turns into a Krushing Blow, with the kick to the face crushing the opponent's skull inward, dealing nearly double the entire combo's original damage, but dealing nearly three times the damage of the second strike.
  • Wombo Kombo (Backward Throw): Cage punches his opponent in the face, making them stumble backwards, sweeps their legs with a sliding forearm strike and knocks them away with a Shadow Kick. (MK1)
  • Hands Off: When Johnny successfully performs a Throw Escape, he can spend a bar of Super Meter to break his opponent's arm. Doing this deals damage and disables their ability perform any basic Throw attack for some time. (MK1)
  • Gutbusters: Johnny punches the opponent straight in the gut. This is a basic attack and can be charge. Charging the attack completely causes it to deal double the original damage and acts as a soft stun, briefly stunning the opponent and setting them up for a free hit. The opponent collapses while stunned, and this is considered them in a juggled combo state. (MK1)
  • Style Points: Johnny knees the opponent in the gut then kicks them with a spinning downward kick. This combo acts as a soft stun, briefly stunning the opponent and setting them up for a free hit. The opponent collapses while stunned, and this is considered them in a juggled combo state. Johnny is vulnerable before landing the kick. (MK1)

Fatalities

  • Head Pop: Johnny Cage delivers a bloody and savage uppercut that tears his opponent's head off. A glitch allowed the Fatality to be performed multiple times in MK. In MK4, his fist glows with green energy when performing the Fatality. (MK, MKII, MKT, MK4, MKG, MK:SM, MKX)
    • Triple Punch Decapitation: A bizarre Fatality in which Cage performs his uppercut Fatality, only instead of one head, Cage knocks off three. Most likely done in parody of a glitch discovered in the first Mortal Kombat game, where Johnny Cage could knock off multiple heads in his Fatality. (MKII, MKT)
    • In MKX, this Fatality is renamed as Decap.
  • Torso Rip: Johnny Cage grabs his enemy around the torso and rips their torso off, and throws it to the ground. In Mortal Kombat 4, he twists the torso before ripping it off. This Fatality is also used as a finisher for the Kreate-A-Fatality in Armageddon. (MKII, MK4, MKG, MK:SM)
  • Torso Kick: Johnny Cage begins to smoke, right before he performs a Shadow Kick that tears a portion of the opponent's torso off. The remaining portion then falls on what remains of the enemy. Only available in the Nintendo 64 version of MK Trilogy. (MKT)
  • Atomic Backbreaker: Cage hoists his opponent over his head and then bends them over his shoulders causing them to explode into pieces. Only available in the CD versions of MK Trilogy. (MKT)
  • Brain Rip: Cage jabs the opponent's stomach, causing them to vomit blood. He then thrusts his hand into their head and rips out their brain. (MK:DA)
  • Forceful Shadow Kick: Cage performs a Shadow Kick strong enough for his foot to penetrate the enemy's flesh. Only available in the SNES version of Mortal Kombat. (MK, MK:SM)
    • In Shaolin Monks, Cage uses this Fatality to finish off Goro after Liu Kang and Kung Lao defeat him.
  • Super Split Punch: Cage performs his Split Punch move, but takes it a step further by continuing to pummel his opponent's genitals, finally striking them with such force that it severs their legs from their torso. (MK:SM)
  • Heads Up: Cage decapitates his opponent with an uppercut, then rips off their torso and slams it onto the ground, bouncing their severed head into the air. Cage catches it and holds it up. This Fatality is a combination of his Head Pop and Torso Rip Fatalities. (MK 2011)
  • And The Winner Is...: Johnny Cage karate chops the opponent's head in half and takes out a trophy. He then says, "And the award goes to..." and plants the trophy in between the two chopped halves of the opponent's head. Then while the announcer proclaims Cage's victory, Johnny pushes the still-standing opponent to the ground with his finger. (MK 2011)
    • If this Fatality is performed on Kratos, Johnny will only karate chop his head in half.
  • Here's Johnny: Cage turns his opponent around with a slap, then jabs his hands into their back and tears a hole through their torso, almost tearing them completely in half. He peeks his head through the opening and says, "Heeeere's Johnny!" He then stands back, allowing the victim to fall forwards lifelessly. This Fatality is similar to Shao Kahn's Double Down Fatality in MK 2011, and is also a reference to the famous scene from The Shining. (MKX)
  • Little Improv: Cage throws his opponent onto the ground, then seizes the back of the opponent's head and proceeds to violently and repeatedly smash their face against the ground using his Shadow powers to enhance the speed, reducing it to mush. Johnny then walks away afterward. (MKX)
  • Mr. Cage's Neighborhood: Cage turns his opponent around with a punch, then jabs his hand in their back and rips them in half with a kick. The background goes pitch black, leaving a spotlight on Cage as he begins performing a ventriloquist routine using the upper half of his opponent as the dummy, using one of the five lines below. The audience then boos and starts throwing tomatoes, with one hitting Cage's opponent in the face as Cage looks on while smiling. (MK11)
    • What did you do, Johnny?! - Just what you asked! - Not what I meant by the splits!
    • Is there a pub nearby? - Why, you thirsty? - I could use a few pints.
    • Ninja Mime was awesome! - Yeah, I rocked it. - It really tore me up.
    • Ah, what's for dinner? - Spaghetti or Ramen. - Man, I'm really torn.
    • Ah, this hangover. - Too much fun at happy hour? - I got totally ripped.
  • Who Hired This Guy: In a variation of his Head Pop fatality, Cage uppercuts the opponent, breaking their jaw and making it dangle. A woman then yells, "Cut! Reset!" at him whilst a boom mic appears, implying that he has to retry the fatality. After a clapperboard sequence, which has "Deadly Uppercut" written on it, Cage uppercuts the opponent once more, punching their jaw off and busting their throat, only to be told to do it yet again, to which Cage replies, "Who hired this guy, what the fu-" before being interrupted by a bleep. After the 19th take, Cage manages to punch off the opponent's head, only to have his hand stuck in the head. Frustrated, he throws the head towards the screen, visibly cracking it, while Cage can be seen giving the camera the middle finger. (MK11)
  • Hollywood Walk of Pain: Cage walks up to his opponent with his hand on their shoulder and pulls his phone out to a live stream in front of his viewers, saying "Talk about talent! Meet Hollywood's newest star!" As he does this, he walks up to a plaque on the floor printed with the opponent's name on it, before slamming them down onto the plaque. The opponent's face is split clean in half, and Cage pulls them out, before taking his phone from his pocket and snapping a photo with the body, hearts filling the screen from likes. Johnny appears to make a different face every time due to the work of a filter. (MK1)
  • Krash and Burn: Cage shadow kicks the opponent through his supercar's windshield. He then remotely opens the car door, after which the opponent falls out the driver seat with glass shards all over their body. He then slams the car door down onto the waist of the opponent's body, slicing it in half but trapping them by the intestines. He then remotely starts the car and quips "Vroom, vroom!" with the key fob making a sound effect of Dan Forden saying "Toasty!" when the button is pressed - and it drives off by itself, with the car taking the trapped opponent with it. It then explodes off screen, with a wheel flying past Johnny and the opponent's head landing next to him. However, the explosion's remains is visualized behind the victor along with him quipping "And boom!" (MK1)

Brutalities

Mortal Kombat X

  • Eye Popping: Johnny performs a Nut Punch, punching his opponent's groin so hard that their head comes off. Alternatively, if a Nutcracker is performed, their eyes will pop out of the sockets.
  • Blood Spurt: Johnny performs a Take Two combo with the final kick decapitating the opponent and sending their head towards the screen.
  • Wow Out: Johnny performs an extended Speed Bag combo that removes the opponent's face, with a final hit as an uppercut breaking the opponent's neck. Still upright, Johnny seemingly winds up a final punch, but stops and ends up pushing them over with his finger with a wry chuckle.
  • Fall Guy: While Mimic is active, Johnny performs a Shadow Kick that bifurcates the opponent at the waist. The Stunt Double then mimic Johnny's Brutality Victory Pose.
  • Bring It On: Johnny performs a Rising Kick that obliterates the opponent's torso.
  • Break a Leg: Johnny performs his original Throw, but snaps the opponent's right arm and right leg clean off before sending them away with a palm strike. (Secret)

Mortal Kombat 11

  • The Klassic: Johnny performs his uppercut, decapitating the opponent with a rising uppercut with their spine still attached.
  • $500 Sunglasses: Johnny performs a Throwing Shades where the opponent mimics one of his poses. After a moment, they begin to become dizzy and then their head explodes.
  • Say Uncle: While Brass Knuckles are active, Johnny performs a Pissed Off, savagely beating the opponent's face until they fall to their knees, where he rips their head off.
  • No Hollywood Strings Attached: Johnny performs his Director's Cut or Comedy And Tragedy combos, where he signs his hand with a marker, only to stab the opponent in the eye with the marker, causing them to bleed to death.
  • Do My Own Stunts: Johnny performs a Flippy Kick that tears off the front of the opponent's head and torso. As their lifeless corpse kneels, the brain falls out of its cavity.
  • The Award Goes To: Johnny performs his Throw (Forward), only this time, he beats the opponent to death his Snazzy Award before impaling it through their face with it.
  • Mic Check: Johnny performs his Throw (Backwards), only this time after pulling up on the opponent's back, he grabs a boom microphone from behind and smacks the opponent in the leg, causing them to fall to their knees. He then impales them through the mouth down their body and performs a mic-check afterwards.
  • At The Dooooor: Johnny performs a Mime Time where he grabs the opponent, throws them to the ground and destroys their face with an invisible door by repeatedly shutting on their head.
  • Team Cage: Johnny performs a Stunt Double, where a second Double comes in after the sucker punch and rips their torso off, similar to his Torso Rip Fatality. The Double smacks the head of the dead opponent's upright upperbody while posing.
  • Come Again: Johnny performs a Nut Punch that causes the opponent's head to pop out with their spine still attached. The head and spine stay upright on the opponent's body as they fall over dead.
  • Not Today: Johnny performs a Say Cheese that melts the opponent's face off, leaving only a skull.
  • Alternate The Award Goes To Brutality: Johnny performs his The Award Goes To Brutality, but this time Cage throws a tomato straight to his opponent face at the end. (Secret)
  • Alternate The Klassic Brutality: Johnny performs his The Klassic Brutality, only this time, he uppercuts off three heads instead of one. (Secret)

Mortal Kombat 1

  • The Klassic: Johnny performs his uppercut, decapitating the opponent with a rising uppercut.
  • Here's Johnny: Johnny performs his Throw (Backwards) tearing the opponent in half with the Shadow Kick.
  • Game Over Man: Johnny performs a Hands Off, using an invisible gun to blow a giant hole through the opponent's face.
  • You Got Caged: Johnny performs a Throwing Shade where a makeup artist begins pampering the enthusiastic opponent wearing his sunglasses, only for the artist to slice their face to shreds with a razorblade.
  • Welcome to the Party: Johnny performs his Ball Buster where a Johnny Cage action figure crawls off his shoulder and attacks the hunched over opponent. As the figure punches them, it crawls inside their mouth and into their body, where Johnny pulls out a tablet and detonates the action figure inside the opponent's stomach, leaving a large gaping hole in their abdomen.
  • Hope You're Insured: Johnny performs a Shadow Kick that severs the upper half of the opponent's body.

Other Finishers

  • Friendship #1 - Autograph: Johnny Cage signs a photo of himself stating: "TO MY BEST FAN! Cage". He also does this for his victory pose in Mortal Kombat X, adding "I'd frame that." to the downed opponent. (MKII, MKT)
  • Friendship #2 - Dub Dub WB: Wearing a top hat and cane, Johnny Cage does a vaudeville dance as "Give My Regards to Broadway" plays in the background. (MK11)
  • Animality - Hyper Kangaroo Kick: Cage turns into a kangaroo and kicks his opponent off screen. (MKT)
  • Babality: Johnny Cage draws on a piece of paper with a crayon. He then throws it upwards, and it lands on the screen, showing the player a poorly-drawn picture of Cage (in the style of pictures drawn by small children) and a few words saying, "To My Best Fan! Johnny Cage" an homage to his Friendship in earlier games (see above). (MK 2011)

Combat Characteristics as Janet Cage

As a variant of Johnny Cage from a different timeline, Janet retains many of Johnny's abilities, such as his green Mediterranean magic, fighting prowess and cocky attitude. Her speed and strength are identical to her other timeline counterparts, including this new version of Johnny Cage, making her a deadly kombatant to fight.

Appearances in Other Media

Mortal Kombat

Johnny Cage was portrayed by Linden Ashby in the first Mortal Kombat movie. In the film, he is a Hollywood action movie star who is branded a fake by the media, and seeks to prove otherwise to the world. He is invited to compete in the Mortal Kombat tournament by his sensei, Master Boyd, who in reality was a disguised Shang Tsung, posing as Boyd to lure Cage into the tournament. He is chosen along with Liu Kang and Sonya Blade as representatives of Earthrealm in the tournament by Raiden. During the tournament, he fought Scorpion, and won, and later caused the demise of Goro, avenging the death of a fellow fighter named Art Lean, one of the few people who believed the authenticity of Cage's abilities. He accompanies Liu Kang and Kitana to Shao Kahn's castle in the Wastelands of Outworld to rescue an imprisoned Sonya, and witnesses the climatic battle between Liu Kang and Shang Tsung.

As a homage to his Friendship in MKII, he left behind an autographed picture of himself after he defeated Scorpion. The film also took a page from Malibu's 1994-1995 MK comic book series by starting his love interest with Sonya.

Mortal Kombat: Annihilation

Johnny Cage appears during the opening sequence of Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, played by Chris Conrad.

When Shao Kahn takes Sonya Blade hostage, Cage successfully saves her from certain death at the hands of Kahn, only to be intercepted and killed in Sonya's place soon thereafter when Kahn snaps his neck. His death leaves Sonya emotionally guilt-ridden.

Mortal Kombat: The Journey Begins

Johnny Cage appears as one of the main characters opposite Liu Kang and Sonya Blade in the animated film Mortal Kombat: The Journey Begins. The trio are guided by Raiden who explains to them the situation and the history of Mortal Kombat. Through the course of their journey, they encounter several adversaries, including Scorpion, the elder Sub-Zero, Goro, and a Tarkatan army, all of whom are aligned with Shang Tsung.

Mortal Kombat: Rebirth

Matt Mullins plays Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat: Rebirth. Similar to his game counterpart, he is a movie star whose career has gone dry. In the following events, he begins a career as a secret agent, and is hired by the Deacon City Police Department to gather information on Baraka for them. After a brutal fight, Johnny is defeated by Baraka who subsequently decapitates him.

Mortal Kombat: Legacy

Matt Mullins reprises the role of Johnny Cage for the third episode of the online series Mortal Kombat: Legacy.

A short bio expose reveals Johnny Cage was a small-screen martial arts actor who once starred in Power Rangers, but begin experiencing problems as his career hit trouble. He began picking fights at clubs and getting arrested and his career suffered as a result.

Desperate to regain his fame, Johnny pitches a pilot for a series where he hunts down people pirating DVDS, though the executives are less than pleased or enthusiastic with his pitch, despite Johnny giving them exactly what they asked for. After the executive Emile leaves, Lance tells Johnny that he doesn't think TV is the right move for him, and a frustrated Johnny asks what is, saying he hasn't worked since Power Rangers went off the air.

Johnny tells Lance he needs something big and is confidant his show can be a hit. Lance promises Johnny he'll try to get him something on one of their channels but tells him to re-shoot his pitch pilot, complaining that the fighting is clearly fake.

Three weeks later, Johnny shows Lance and Emile his new pilot, but Lance turns the pilot off before it's even finished. Lance then reveals to Johnny that the project won't get off the ground. A frustrated Johnny asks them if they know how much work and money it took for him to make that pilot, and Lance reveals that the network is not renewing his development deal. Johnny is shocked he's being dropped, and he also learns that nothing he pitches will be sold if he's attached to the project.

When Emile and Lance are called on to the set, Lance offers to walk Johnny out but a disillusioned Johnny only curses him and remains seated as they leave. Johnny then breaks his pitch pilot's DVD in half and gets up to leave. However, as he's leaving, Johnny overhears Lance and Emile talking with an actress and is shocked when they pitch his exact same proposed series to her.

Infuriated, Johnny bursts in and grabs Lance, throwing him onto the floor before proceeding to pummel him, mockingly asking, "Does that look fucking fake to you?!" Johnny throws Lance aside and gets jumped by two security guards but easily takes them out with his superior fighting skills. Once the fighting is over however, Johnny quickly realizes the consequences of his actions when he sees Emile recording him and a sobbing Lance throws slurred threats to further ruin his career at him.

Johnny quickly begins to leave when he notices everything and everyone has stopped moving, as if frozen in time. Confused, Johnny is suddenly approached by a mysterious man. Johnny asks who he is, and the man reveals himself to be Shang Tsung, and he offers Johnny a "way out of everything."

Casper Van Dien portrayed Cage in season 2 of Mortal Kombat: Legacy.

In between seasons, Johnny refused Shang Tsung's offer, and later got into a fight after crashing a movie premier, which ended in him being arrested once again. As he sits in a crowded holding cell, time stops once again and Johnny is approached by Raiden, god of thunder. Wary and concerned for his mental health, Johnny initially refuses to believe what he is seeing but agrees to hear Raiden out after the thunder god promises to leave him hallucination free if he is still uninterested. With nothing left to lose, Johnny agrees to hear him out.

Though not seen, Johnny agrees to join Raiden and decides to fight for Earthrealm.

A week later, Johnny is the third to arrive on the island hosting the Mortal Kombat tournament, being recognized by Kurtis Stryker, before Sub-Zero and Kenshi arrive.

That night as the kombatants sit around a campfire, Johnny asks Raiden how they're supposed to win the tournament, with Raiden cryptically replying, "By surviving." When the fire goes out, Raiden reignites it with a burst of lightning, shocking Johnny. Raiden then explains that each of them possesses a supernatural ability, and on the island, it will be empowered further before pointing out Johnny's incredible speed. Johnny disbelieves this, calling it "bullshit" but shuts up when Sub-Zero demonstrates his own ice powers to put the fire out.

The tournament begins and Johnny spends a portion of the next day wandering the island, cursing and wondering why he agreed to come here when he hears sounds of a battle. Investigating, he witnesses Kenshi and Ermac's battle, and is shocked when he sees Kenshi deliver a Fatality on the demon, causing it to release dozens of souls. Stepping back in shock, Johnny steps on a branch, alerting the nearby Mileena and Kitana to his presence. Intrigued by the sight of the two beautiful women, Johnny removes his sunglasses and prepares to greet them when Mileena screams at him, her mouth contorting to reveal her Tarkatan fangs before she throws one of her sais at him.

Wisely, Johnny turns tail and runs, screaming in fear with Mileena and Kitana in pursuit.

After some running, Johnny hides behind a tree in a meadow, pleading to himself that someone yell "Cut!" before Mileena appears, stabbing the tree and narrowly missing Johnny. Despite pleas that they just talk, Johnny switches from defensive fighting to offensive and manages to hold his own with Mileena for a while before she lands a kick to his groin ("That's my move!") and then impales him through the shoulder with one of her sai. Johnny is helpless as Mileena orders Kitana to finish him, but Kitana has a change of heart and battles her sister, sparing Johnny.

When it appears Mileena is going to finish Kitana, Johnny intervenes, stabbing her in the foot with one of her sai ("That's for my sunglasses, bitch!") allowing Kitana to deliver a Fatality on Mileena. Johnny doesn't stick around to talk and flees once again.

Later, Kurtis Stryker runs into the wounded Johnny on another part of the island. Stryker helps Johnny with his wound and Johnny tells him of Mileena and Kitana's fight. Before he and Stryker can head for the shore, they are attacked by Liu Kang, with both narrowly avoiding the fallen Shaolin warrior's fireballs. Liu Kang recognizes Johnny and admits he thought he had a stunt actor, with Johnny clarifying it was "All me". Liu Kang admits that he must be good for him to have been invited to the tournament before offering Johnny the choices of dying quickly on the dirt or for a chance on his feet. Johnny opts to go down fighting and engages Liu Kang in an even fight, with Liu Kang further complimenting his skill before swiftly defeating the arrogant Johnny.

Before Johnny can be killed, Stryker intervenes but is likewise swiftly defeated, but both are saved by Kung Lao. The season ends with Johnny unconscious as Liu Kang and Kung Lao face off.

Mortal Kombat

Citizen Cage Poster

Citizen Cage poster

A poster of Cage's movie "Citizen Cage" appears in the gym and Cole Young leaves for Hollywood to recruit Cage for the upcoming Tournament.

Comic Book Appearances

Johnny Cage is one of the main characters in the Mortal Kombat comic book series, where his portrayal in the comics is faithful to the games. He appears during the whole Blood & Thunder series, most of the time alongside Sonya, with whom he shares a relationship in the comics. His most serious moment is when he, under Raiden's advice, decides to not seek the power of the Tao Te Zhan, since he felt it would be like faking his moves in his films. During the second series, Battlewave, he is seen resuming his acting career when Sonya asks him to help with an investigation. He initially refuses, but later reconsiders what's important and decides to follow with Jax into the Outworld. In the meantime, he sends his musclebound bodyguard, Bo, to protect Liu Kang.

Quotes

Mortal Kombat (film)/Mortal Kombat: Annihilation

  • "Let's dance" (starting his scene shoot)
  • "This is where you fall down." (to an actor who missed his cue)
  • "Where d'ya get these guys?! And the press says I don't know how to do this stuff?!" (complaining about the low quality of his co-stars)
  • "I'm going to my trailer, I'm gonna get a gun, and then, I'm gonna kill myself for being in your movie!" (yelling at the director after a bad take)
  • "Huh, thank God I didn't ask him to park the car." (after Liu Kang drops his suitcase into the water)
  • "Alright, tough guy, you wanna get... rough?"
  • "We got a guy with things coming out of his hand, we got another guy who freezes stuff, and then there's a man, who as far as I can tell, is made out of electricity. I mean, how did he disappear like that? What is going on here? Who is this guy?" (discussing with Liu Kang and Sonya what they are getting themselves into)
  • "Now, wait a second. If this guy is so powerful, then why doesn't he just invade us?"
  • "While you're at it, why don't you call my agent?" (as Sonya tries to contact Jax)
  • "Do I look like your travel agent?" (after Sonya asks where they are, as soon as they arrive at Shang Tsung's island)
  • "Oh, great! Can't wait to see what the bathrooms look like." (seeing the island's facilities for the first time)
  • "Y'know, when a woman looks at you like that... it usually means something." (about Kitana, to Liu Kang)
  • "Come to a little tournament, he said. Be good for the career, he said. Yeah right..." (after witnessing Sub-Zero killing his opponent during his martial arts demonstration)
  • "You know, you gotta admire her... when she sets her mind on something... (about Sonya)
  • "Sonya, you go ahead. Find out what that was. Liu and I'll wait right here." (after seeing Goro projecting his shadow on the wall)
  • "You're hard up for a date." (to Liu Kang when he thinks Kitana is trying to help them)
  • "Forget her, she's 10,000 years old!"
  • "Kitana went this way. I can smell her perfume." (covering up the fact they were walking in circles)
  • "You guys are lucky he stopped us." (after Raiden intervenes as dozens of guards are about to attack him, Liu Kang and Sonya)
  • "If I challenge him now, I can finish this."
  • "I can't let what happened to Art happen to you. Not to you." (to Sonya)
  • "Yeah? Well, you forgot 'good looking.'"
  • "I'm not the one who's going to die." (to Shang Tsung)
  • "This is our tournament, remember? Mortal Kombat. We fight it." (asserting to Raiden his decision to fight Goro)
  • "Alright, let's dance."
  • "Damn, that hurt!" (after doing the Nut Punch on Goro)
  • "Those were 500 dollar sunglasses, asshole." (taunting Goro)
  • "This is where you fall down."(to Goro)
  • "This is not good, but I'm fine... I can deal with this... So, this is Outworld, huh? Well, I can see why they want a change of scenery."
  • "Liu, I hate this place. I do. I'm telling ya, I hate it. I'm in a hostile environment, I am completely unprepared. I'm surrounded by people who probably wanna kick my ass... it's like being back in high school!" (about Outworld)
  • "Nice dress." (about Sonya as Shang Tsung's prisoner)
  • "This is not good."(in Mortal Kombat: Annihilation)

Mortal Kombat: Legacy

  • "Growing up, I was shy, I was weak. I actually got my ass kicked a lot. But martial arts changed all that, and I was reborn. And that gave the world... Johnny Cage."
  • "Piracy, burning more than just DVD's."
  • "Well, no shit the fighting's fake. It's a fucking movie!"
  • "You're dropping me? After all the fucking money I made you?
  • "Get over here, you son of a bitch!"
  • "Does that look fucking fake to you?!"
  • "This is for my sunglasses, bitch!"

Mortal Kombat (2011)

  • "I make this look easy!" (Battle Cry)
  • "Here it comes!"
  • "You got Caged!"
  • "Oh yeah!"
  • "And, action!"
  • "And, cut!"
  • "No autographs, please."
  • "And the award goes to..?"
  • "Money shot!"
  • "Jerks."
  • "Chao."
  • "Damn, I'm good!"
  • "Come on!"
  • "Gonna get Caged!"
  • "Johnny Cage!!"
  • "Watch this!"
  • "Hey beautiful, Johnny Cage." (to Sonya)
  • "What? 'Massive Strike?' 'Citizen Cage?' 'Ninja Mime?' None of those ring a bell?"
  • "Kano? Wasn't in that one."
  • "Heh, that old geezer's the final challenge? Might as well give me the belt right now. They do have belts right?" (talking about Shang Tsung)
  • "What, How did you-?"(to Shang Tsung)
  • "Heh, That's right, That's right, who's it gonna be?"
  • "Nice stunt! Who's your agent?" (to Reptile)
  • "Alright! It's showtime!" (beginning his match against Reptile)
  • "He got caged!" (after defeating Reptile)
  • "That's it, ha ha, oh yeah, I am so pretty! And I'm takin' you down. I'm takin' you down. I'm takin' you out. I'm takin' you out. And I'm takin' you out... for dinner." (to several kombatants & Sonya Blade)
  • "Okay, nice makeup. But is it really necessary?" (to Baraka)
  • "Man, I love those blades."(after beating Baraka)
  • "My producer has GOT to meet you. We're doing 'Tommy Scissorfists' and..." (after beating Baraka)
  • "Finish him? Heh. Yeah right."(To Shang Tsung)
  • "Woah, woah, woah, wait a second. I'm not gonna kill anyone." (after Shang Tsung tells him to kill Baraka)
  • "What that's it? Really? Now where'd that hottie go?"
  • "Thanks. Nice hat." (to Raiden)
  • "Now look. I don't know what kind of role playing you guys are into, but count me out." (to Raiden and Liu Kang)
  • "What are you talking about?"(to Liu Kang)
  • "Dun dun dun. Look guys, I'm an actor. I save the world for the cameras. If this emperor is really a threat, call the military. Me, I've got a date with a blonde. Ciao!" (to Raiden and Liu Kang)
  • "Need help? I specialize in rescuing damsels in distress." (to Sonya)
  • "Look baby, I can't let you run loose without an escort."
  • "Ha Haa! Not bad for a... girl" (after defeating Sonya)
  • "Fine, have it your way. I'll just leave you to your... problems" (to Sonya)
  • "Step away from the lady!" (to Kano)
  • "Fans think my moves are all wirework and special effects. Truth is... I am the special effects." (to Kano)
  • "Throw that on your... Barbie... shrimp!" (after beating Kano)
  • "I'm not worried, I bet you can win this thing no problem."
  • "What should we do, besides standing around looking pretty?"
  • "Ouch..." (After Scorpion shows everyone the burnt-out skull of Sub-Zero)
  • "Ready for your beat down, Sunshine? Here it comes!" (to Cyrax)
  • "What's a Goro?!"
  • "MVP, baby!" (after Liu Kang defeats Shang Tsung)
  • "The wrestler guy with a cow skull on his head? And why aren't the Kung Fu Twins here helping us?"
  • "So what's the deal with you and Sonya anyways? She's smokin' hot."(to Jax)
  • "He was busy hitting me in the face!" (to Sonya; about Jax)
  • "What are we? Chopped liver?" (to Raiden)
  • "Sure, let's ruin someone else's life." (after Raiden suggests that they turn Kitana against Shao Kahn)
  • "Hey listen, honey, we don't wanna fight."(to Kitana)
  • "You couldn't have seen that in one of your hot flashes?"(to Raiden, after Kitana defeated both him and Smoke)
  • "'Lord'? I was with Smoke. I thought she was a bad guy. Girl. Guess he turned another one... What's Raiden got that I haven't got?" ( to Kung Lao and Liu Kang about Jade)
  • "My head hurts just thinking about it."
  • "Liu Kang! Raiden! NO!" (when Raiden and Liu Kang are fighting)
  • "What did you do!?" (after Raiden has accidentally electrocuted Liu Kang)

Mortal Kombat X

Story Mode

  • "Damn, I'm good." (After catching Scorpion's kunai)
  • "Nasty."(After throwing a SF soldier’s severed head off of the plane)
  • "I liked it better when we fought on the same side."(After defeating Sub Zero)
  • "Add them to the list of things Shinnok will answer for." (Referring to SF soldiers who died in the Netherrealm War)
  • "The real Jax wouldn't punch his best friend."(To the revenant Jax)
  • "Oh, sorry ma'am. Didn't see you there."(After knocking Shinnok over)
  • "She called me Johnny."(When Kenshi is talking to Johnny)
  • "Enjoy the new digs, gramps." (After Shinnok had been sealed inside his Amulet)
  • "At ease. You're all here because you deserve to be. You're beautiful and unique snowflakes."(To Cassie's team)
  • "Now, as I'm sure you're unaware, judging from the lack of gift cards, today's our teams six-week anniversary."(To Cassie's team)
  • "I'm guessing it's not your first time in cuffs. What's your safe word?" (To Quan Chi)
  • "Haven't I told you? He's a god." (To Sonya, describing Raiden's powers)
  • "Just like old times." (to Scorpion)
  • "Funny... Beautiful... Saving the world... My work here is done." (To Cassie after she is successful in defeating Shinnok)
  • "You should've seen Cass. Wiped the floor with Shinnok."
  • You hear that, Cass? She called me Johnny."

Mortal Kombat 11

Story Mode

Johnny Cage (Present)
  • "You've got your duty, 'Commander'. I've got mine." (to Cassie Cage)
  • "I need to provide for you in the manner to which you've become accustomed." (to Sonya Blade)
  • "Y'know it's been two years too much of your grim and gritty makeover, droning on about sacrifice. You don't have a family to lose." (to Dark Raiden, worrying about his family)
  • "Thank God you're back. How did the mission--" (to Cassie and her team)
  • "No."(Johnny, after realizing that his reconciled wife has been killed on a mission)
  • "I swear to god, I'm losing it. Can't someone, anyone, explain to me what the hell is going on?!" (to his past self)
  • "Yeah, about that. What happened to Dark you? How come you're an only child and I've got an evil twin?" (to past Raiden)
  • "Our kid's something, isn't she?"
  • "Sorry. Too easy to forget."
  • "Donardo, Junior year."(with his past self)
  • "Take it from me, you didn't miss much."
  • "That woman over there? She's the real deal."
  • "Out." (to his past self, dragging him out of the room after disrespecting Sonya).
  • "This is a military operation, not a movie set." (to his past self)
  • "OUR daughter is C.O. A little humility might earn her respect." (to his past self, annoyed)
  • "Dad was an asshole. Hollywood made us an even bigger one." (to his past self)
  • "An old man just kicked your ass."(After defeating his past self)
  • "Just follow my lead." (to his past self when the Black Dragon invades)
  • "Ooh, that's freaky like Friday."
  • "He's gonna get us killed."
  • "Ooh! Funny way of saying howdy, partner." (to the younger Erron Black)
  • "Now why's a nice Texas boy like Erron Black in bed with the Black Dragon? Older You works for Kotal Kahn. He's one of the good guys, kinda."
  • "You chose... poorly." (After defeating Erron Black)
  • "Cassie! Sonya!"
  • "Breathe, kiddo."
  • "I'll get her."
  • "Can we find out where they've gone?"
  • "On it."
  • "Keep her safe."
  • "Two can play that game."
  • "You won't be online long enough for your friends to make it, Tin-Head." (to Sektor)
  • "You're forgetting the time I beat Shinnok, mano-a-mano. Oh wait! You were dead when that happened."
  • "Go back to the 90s." (After defeating Sektor)
  • "Who's next?"
  • "Shit. As if Throwback Me wasn't bad enough." (After Nut-Punching Kano)
  • "No one threatens my family." (After defeating Kano)
  • "Anyone else hear that beeping?"
  • "You're back in the nick of time!"
Johnny Cage (Past)

Part 1: Mortal Kombat 11

  • "Right? I've been in a future for a whole hour and I haven't seen one jetpack. Not one!" (to his future self)
  • "C'mon, at least think about it. We each get points off the gross."
  • "Coming this summer... Johnny Cage. AND. Johnny Cage! In: "Timequake"!"
  • "So I marry Lieutenant Princess over there? I always have had a thing for blondes. Ever since Suzie..."
  • "Donardo, Junior year." (with his future self)
  • "Ooh... I got eyes, brother. As a younger you, I solemnly swear to tap that at the earliest opportunity." (Johnny making an insensitive quote about Sonya's buttocks)
  • "I'm only the best fighter here. But your daughter's got me sitting at the kids table."
  • "Dad always said, "Hungry people eat lunch, humble people serve it."" (to his future self)
  • "You got lucky." (after losing to his future self)
  • "Yippee-ki-yay, right?"
  • "They shot our face, Johnny. They shot. Our FACE!"
  • "C'mon. You've been dyin' to hit me all day. Here's your chance."
  • "You said it: they'll kill us whether we fight or not. Fighting buys us time to find a way out. So quit being a diva and hit me!"
  • "No way. These people know a dive when they see one."
  • "Sweet move. I'm totally stealing that one for Timequake."
  • "How about... dinner sometime? Y'know, to thank you for saving my life? And apologize for being, well, me. No pressure. No romance."
  • "Who's the special guest villain?"
  • "I fought a dude like that in Fatal Infinity --hrnngh !!"

Part 2: Aftermath

  • "Captain Cage, reporting for duty, sir! Uh, I mean ma'am!"
  • "I'm healed, Cassie. Raiden gave me one of his "Thunder Hands" massages."
  • "Speaking of, where is Mama Bear?"
  • "We doing this by gender, or is that sexist?"
  • "​​​​​​Those women are braver and stronger than fifty of you put together!"
  • "Okay bozos. No jokes, no gimmicks, just kombat."
  • "You wanna get nuts?"
  • "Let's get nuts!"
  • "Every fight I've fought, I've fought for myself. But this one? This one's for my family!"

Mortal Kombat 1

  • "I knew it! I felt that one. You felt it too, right?"
  • "Steven. This was fantastic, thank you."
  • "Just like the old days. And these props? Jimbo killed it."
  • "Hey, about my pitch. Y'know, the karate zombie thing? I'm thinking four films. Maybe a streaming series?"
  • "You're right. Not here. I'll swing by your office after I change."
  • "Great! Have you assistant call me."
  • "Wasn't it though? We need to celebrate. I'm thinking "private party"."
  • "I'm telling you, Cris, we're fine."
  • "Cut back? On what?"
  • "I need a refill."
  • "Hey. Sento is history. That sword comes from a—"
  • "Cris, honey. The parts, the money. They're coming. Steven's movies is just the beginning. That's why I can't cut back."
  • "To be a success, I have to project it. If I don't... "Johnny Cage" is done."
  • "C'mon, Cris! Where are you going?!"
  • "Fuck. How do you like that, Mr. A-List?"
  • "Thank god. Cris, honey, I—"
  • "Where's my wife? What did you—"
  • "What do you want?"
  • "You some kind of hired gun? Or do you know Sento's history?"
  • "No. No way you're Taira clan. They've been dead for centuries."
  • "That's a great plan, stranger. Except for one thing."
  • "Sento's mine. And I won't give it up without a fight."
  • "You tried robbing the wrong house. I am the ultimate home security system." (After defeating Kenshi in a round)
  • "My house, my rules." (After defeating Kenshi)
  • "So. You have a name or what?"
  • "Ha! I knew you weren't Taira clan."
  • "Four hundred years ago the Taira clan were one of Japan's first families. They lost Sento after getting slaughtered at the Siege of Aomori."
  • "The Yakuza's predecessors... From first family to crime family."
  • "And that's Malibu's Finest."
  • "It's a great story. Bullshit... but great. You should seriously consider becoming a screenwriter."
  • "What in the actual fu—"
  • "Uh... Nothing's being shot here tonight. You sure you're in the right place?"
  • "What? How do you know about him?"
  • "Cris, you vixen. Nicely done."
  • "Sure. Come right in. Glowing eyes are a nice touch."
  • "You tell me. They're your scene partners."
  • "(dramatic) Dun, dun, dunnnnn."
  • "C'mon guys. Let's call this. Cris was a doll to set this up, but... As pranks go this one's... eh... a bit obvious."
  • "All right, all right. (laughing) I'll play my part in this martial arts LARP. The missus ought to get what she paid for."
  • "*Ahhh.* (clearing throat) Ok. *Ahem* *Ahhh...* Hey you— Wait, wait..."
  • "Hey, you! Get your damn hands off him."
  • "I said... get you damn hands off"
  • "(in disbelief) That was a Hichuli! One of a kind!"
  • "All right, I don't care if this a damned prank."
  • "You crossed the line!"
  • "You guys need a better fight chorographer." (After defeating Sub-Zero in a round)
  • "And scene." (After defeating Sub-Zero)
  • "I hope you're insured because you're paying for my Hichuli."
  • "Uh... That's no special effect."
  • "Okay, let's go back to one here. Who are you again?"
  • "Well that last one tracks. But...what's an Earthrealm?"
  • "Why him? Or me for that matter?"
  • "We just need to get on with it. We've been cooped up here for months. I can't base a cinematic universe on Outworld's monsters and magic if I don't ever see them."
  • "Liu Kang said that this gig would change the arc of my life. That's how it gets done. My ex'll rue the day she gave up on me."
  • "Oh please, Tattoo. You're just here to get your sword back."
  • "(laughs) Good call. Call the weak first."
  • "All right. Let's do this."
  • "But remember, farm boy, I'm a global martial arts icon. I don't think you can handle this much boom."
  • "And that's why I don't need stunt doubles." (After Raiden defeated him in a round)
  • "Not bad for an understudy. But you'll never be the star." (After Raiden lost to him in a round)
  • "You're welcome."
  • "Fifty bucks says Kung Lao wins."
  • "Ha! Not on your life."
  • "Holy Ark of the Covenant!"
  • "Toto, I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore."
  • "Oh my. Are those..."
  • "They do not disappoint."
  • "I'm sorry. You're ten thousand years old? Talk about aging gracefully." (surprised of Kitana's age)
  • "All right, yeah!" (celebrates Raiden's victory)
  • "That was great."
  • "Sounds a lot like my first agent."
  • "Hey! "This One" is up for the job."
  • "Ugh... Are we there yet?"
  • "What can I say? These boots weren't made for walking."
  • "Oh. I'm already lucky. I've got Sento strapped to my back."
  • "Got three million? It's yours."
  • "I bet your Yakuza pals could come up with it."
  • "Oh, that's right, you blew them off."
  • "If there's one lesson Hollywood's taught me, it's never burn bridges. You never know who can help."
  • "(eyeing Tanya) You bitch!"
  • "You know, the movie: tiny girl, ginormous alien."
  • "(imitates Newt) Ripley!"
  • "No? Seriously?"
  • "Kenshi!"
  • "What're you—"
  • "You saved me. I won't forget that." (To Kenshi)
  • "Reminds me of this cheap-ass film I did in my early days: The Flesh Pits. God that was trash."
  • "We've gotta get out of here."
  • "What? Shang Tsung finds you, he'll kill you."
  • "Hey. You are not giving up. The Taira need you, remember? We are gonna get back home and figure out how to help you. Got it?"
  • "God this reminds me of Wicked Planet. We had a forest in the second act—"
  • "Yes! It was a pain to shoot, but man did it come out epic."
  • "Whoa. Wait a tick. We're talking ghosts?!"
  • "You guys know anybody in here?"
  • "Well. That's an offer you can't refuse."
  • "Just keep swimming." (To Kenshi)
  • "So. Who's our femme fatale?"
  • "Demon? You look human, mostly. And what's a Netherrealm?"
  • "That one, apparently."
  • "No shit."
  • "Dammit. That guy's everywhere."
  • "Nope, no. We're getting you home."
  • "(sigh) I guess the ayes have it. Motion carries."
  • "Ashrah, lead the way."
  • "Now I've done steps, so I'm all for self-help. But since when does a demoness want to be less evil?"
  • "Any idea how he buddied up with Shang Tsung?"
  • "Well this plot just got thicker."
  • "Whoa there, big fella. This stop's where you get off."
  • "Which is why we don't want you tripping us up out there."
  • "Now. Give me your sword."
  • "Just give it."
  • "You saved my life. It's yours."
  • "My god. It's a... soulnado."
  • "Well... clearly I underpaid for that. Do you know what it could do?"
  • "Just don't forget who gave it to you, Takahashi."
  • "I know home's here for you, Baraka... but Syzoth, Ashrah... You can come if you want. I'm sure Liu Kang will welcome you."
  • "Night, night, sweet Prince of Darkness." (To the unconscious Quan Chi)
  • "Oh! Perfect. You'll fight right in."
  • "What? It hides your face. And honestly... It suits you."
  • "Look at it out there. It's like Mardi Gras. People will think he just partied too hard."
  • "What's the word?" (To Syzoth)
  • "Damn. You didn't tell me you could go full Predator."
  • "This was one of my movies, we'd get saved by a plucky, comic sidekick."
  • "Not comic, but definitely plucky."
  • "Ha ha!" (After sucker punched Goro)
  • "We had a run-in with Princess Mileena's inner demons."
  • "We found Shang Tsung, but he got away. I can see why you're twitchy about him. He's neck deep in some serious—"
  • "Can I also get a martini? Shaken, not stirred?"
  • "Ahhh. I'm sorry. Meet the newest members of Earthrealm Players. We wouldn't have made it back without them."
  • "Well... So much for that martini."
  • "My ex was so wrong. The 30K I spent on this seems like a steal right now."
  • "Not magic, Your Loveliness. Technology." (To Mileena)
  • "I'm telling you, the locations we've found here are money."
  • "I mean look at this. Don't the rainbow colors on these mountains just scream Outworld?"
  • "Well the studio thinks it's fiction, not facts. (laughs) But I don't care, as long as it's covering the budget."
  • "Nope, I'm behind the camera. Writing and directing. Time to let someone younger and prettier take the lead."
  • "You know, I've written in parts for all of you. If you want them."
  • "I mean they're cameos. But like they say... there are no small parts."
  • "What about you, Takahashi? I need a blind swordsman. And no actor can do what you do."
  • "Well I know better than to ask you. Your place is always full."
  • "No, Liu Kang... thank you."
  • "Joining up with you really has changed the arcs of our lives."
  • "Not me. I'm still three mill in the hole on Sento. How uh... thick's your wallet, Takahashi?"
  • "Don't worry, farm boy. I've got this covered. Besides, my business manager tells me I can write this whole thing off."

Illinois Johnny

  • "It's this way." (To Adam)
  • "Goddammit, Alessia." (After finding her corpse)
  • "The darts came from here."
  • "Without killing us? Let's hope so."
  • "Turn 'em off." (Telling Adam to turn off the flashlights)
  • "Yeah, we're definitely getting warmer."
  • "Oil bubbles up from the ground. The chamber channels it somehow."
  • "That's not just any metal. It's liquid mercury."
  • "Fatal. Only step where I step."
  • "What did I say?"
  • "Not now."
  • "Get out the explosives."
  • "Do this right, it'll fall across."
  • "Keep working. I'll take care of the she-beasts."
  • "I have *so* had enough of you." (After defeating Kalima in a round)
  • "Got no time to die, crazy lady." (After defeating Kalima)
  • "Yes. We ready?"
  • "Physics, for the win. Let's go."
  • "It belongs in a museum."
  • "Adam!"
  • "You don't need it, you're dead. Speaking of which, you just killed my best friend."
  • "And I'm not one to forgive and forget."
  • "This one's for you, Adam." (After defeating Katara Vala in a round)
  • "Now where's that shield..."
  • "Yes, you are."
  • "Time to go home."

Armageddon Johnny

  • "No happy ending for you, my friend."
  • "It's a bad call to battle a megastar."
  • "You ready? It's time to get Caged."
  • "Time to let rip some star power."
  • "My fans are gonna love this one."
  • "Now that's a wrap." (Thanking Titan Kitana)
  • "Also the name of my biggest box office smash. Let's do this?"
  • "Yeah. That's not good."

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion's Revenge

  • "No, no, listen!"
  • "We can make this work, I promise."
  • "What do I have to do, huh?"
  • "So... I can still call her then. That's a w."
  • "Hey! You're in the Cage with Johnny."
  • "Oh! Well, if it isn't my long lost agent. It's about time you called."
  • "But of course, I'm interested in something different, what other than telling you-"
  • "Yeah? China? Uh huh."
  • "Alright, well, what about in advance, things got a little tight, round-"
  • "Hello? Hello? Well, I'm off to China!"
  • "Hold the boat! I'm coming!"
  • "Hope no fans saw that, I'm wearing slippers."
  • "Johnny Cage of the superstar variety, but you probably knew that."
  • "And you are?"
  • "Oh, you will be, they're always are."
  • "So, are you guys are in this thing, too?"
  • "Oh yeah? Listen, I love acting classes at all, but (sighs) I'm really kind of a time stuck. You know I want mean? No? Anyway, my agent said this would really put me back on a map. Kind of a bag-aid deal type thing. It should be fun."
  • "Oh, look. Crafted services, great!"
  • "Hey, do you know any of this stuff is organic?"
  • "I'm just asking. Geez."
  • "Fake. These special effects sucks."
  • "Toasty."
  • "Did you declare Mortal Kombat?"
  • "Did you?"
  • "What about you, Mister...?"
  • "Oh, it's catchy. I like that. Did you declare Mortal Kombat?"
  • "Good, good! Great. Then no one needs to die. Sheez."
  • "Now, who's hungry?"
  • "Oh, you think?"
  • "I know how to fight!"
  • "Uhh. Man is she hot!"
  • "Heeeere's Johnny!"
  • "Don't worry, Babe. I got this.
  • "Told you, you'd come around."
  • "Liu, Lord Randy -- need a lift?"
  • "Sooo... That it? We win?"
  • "Alright! Yeah!"
  • "Uhhh... May I?"
  • "Think she'll ever love me?"
  • "Yes she did, Jax. Yes she did."

Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms

  • "Wow. That... that seems a bit harsh."
  • "Not yet."
  • "It's a whole thing. I'll explain later."
  • "Nevermind. That sums it up."
  • "That... was... my move. I can't breathe."
  • "Easy for you to say. You... don't... have nuts."
  • "Lucky shot, let's see you-"

Trivia

General

  • Though the Mortal Kombat franchise is notorious for replacing the letter "c" with "k", Cage is an exception. It is probably more than coincidence that Kage (影, pronounced "ka-ge", with a hard G) in Japanese means "shadow", and Johnny Cage is the master of many shadow move techniques.
  • John Carlton,[1][2] Cage's real name, comes from the Midway game programmer, who worked on the popular arcade series NBA Jam.[11]
  • Johnny Cage's official theme is titled "Prepare Yourself" and the song features an announcement mentioning "John Carlton", Johnny Cage's real name.
  • A trading card mentions that Johnny Cage's real name is Jonathan Carlton and his favorite color is azure blue.[Product name needed] Additionally, IGN also referred Cage's real name as "Jonathan Carlton".[12] Later in 2019, Stephanie Brownback also referred Cage's real name as "Jonathan Carlton" on the 3rd episode of Kombat Kast.[5]
  • The original name for Johnny Cage was Michael Grimm, "the current box office champion and star of such movies as Dragon's Fist, Dragon's Fist II and the award-winning Sudden Violence."[13] It was changed during pre-production of the first MK.
  • According to his person information in Mortal Kombat, Johnny Cage's father is Robert Carlton and his mother is Rose Carlton. He also has a sister, Rebecca Carlton. His ex-wife is Cindy Ford.[1][2] Additionally, Jimmy Cage from Mortal Kombat: Federation of Martial Arts, is Johnny Cage's alleged brother.
  • According to some of the extras in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance, his official biographies, his intro dialogues, some of the endings, the official comics, the officially-released Johnny Cage: In Your Face and Fight Dirty videos, Mortal Kombat: Rebirth, Mortal Kombat: Legacy and Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion's Revenge, Johnny Cage has starred in various movies; see Johnny Cage Movies for his filmography.
    • Cage's MKII ending shows him battling Shao Kahn on the big screen, in the movie Mortal Kombat II.
    • He also appeared on Celebrity SMASH TV. He won the episode he was in, and donated his winnings to charity.
    • In Mortal Kombat X and Mortal Kombat 11, Johnny Cage has an unlockable Ninja Mime skin that shows his outfit used in his movie of the same name - although the outfit is different from one game to another, it can be inferred that Cage wore both in the film or they are from seperate films.
  • In MKX, an interaction with Erron Black reveals that, in addition to action movies, among his other film roles he has also starred in a few Westerns.
  • Mortal Kombat Deadly Alliance reveals that Cyrax dislikes Cage's movies. Specifically, that he felt robbed after seeing Ninja Mime. Kabal expresses similar dislike for them in Mortal Kombat 11. Tremor, however, openly enjoys Cage's films, declaring his excitement to fight him in Mortal Kombat X, and Fujin admits to being a fan in MK11 despite finding Cage himself insufferable.
  • A tombstone entitled "CAGE" can be seen in the Graveyard arena for every game it appears in, except for MK (2011).
  • Brandon Lee was originally cast as Johnny Cage for the first film, but he died before filming began.[14]
  • In the first film, after Cage defeats Scorpion, a photo signed "To my greatest fan" lands in the debris, a nod to his Friendship finishing move in Mortal Kombat II.
  • Albeit not appearing in the animated series Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm, many of Cage's character traits were incorporated into Kurtis Stryker.
  • Johnny Cage is the only one of the original 7 characters from MK to not make a playable appearance in MK vs DCU.
  • Johnny Cage is mentioned in a dialogue between Sub-Zero and Green Lantern in Injustice 2.
  • In a Top 10 list hosted by Screwattack.com, Johnny Cage's Super Split Punch Fatality was placed at the 3rd best Mortal Kombat Fatality.
  • In a Top 10 list hosted by Screwattack.com, Johnny Cage was placed at #9 of the P.A.B. ("Pussy Ass Bitch") characters in gaming history, due to his nut punch attack.
  • In Unreal Championship 2, Raiden will occasionally taunt his opponent by stating that they "fight like Johnny Cage!".
  • Johnny Cage has made a guest appearance on the NetherRealm Studios mobile fighting game, WWE Immortals.
    • His variations are "A-List" & "Mortal Kombat". The renders for the game are borrowed from the Mortal Kombat X mobile game.
    • The glasses that Johnny wears in his "A-List" & "Mortal Kombat" renders have switched. The blood on his wrist tapes is also gone.
    • His Finisher is his X-Ray attack from MKX, Kasting Kall.

Mortal Kombat

  • As stated above, Johnny Cage was the first character created for the first Mortal Kombat. The test prototype had two Johnny Cages fighting each other.[8]
  • A glitch in the first Mortal Kombat makes Johnny Cage's Head Pop Fatality's uppercut, if performed quick enough, knock off a phantom head of the opponent, though this can only be done on Kano, Sub-Zero, and Scorpion.
    • This was later referenced in MKII, with it becoming an actual Fatality as a variation of the original Fatality, called Triple Punch Decapitation; this time, Johnny Cage uppercuts three heads off.
    • His Who Hired This Guy Fatality in MK11 is a reference to his Triple Head Decapitation Fatality with his line from the 1995 film Mortal Kombat.
  • Johnny Cage was cut from the Game Boy version of MK due to memory constraints. However, the game features a cheat code that made him playable in Sonya's sprite.
  • Concept art for the Shrine in Mortal Kombat X shows a portrait of Johnny Cage's ancestor, who bears a strong resemblance to Van Damme.

Mortal Kombat II

  • In early arcade test versions of MKII, the word "Otomix" appeared on Cage's pants, but was omitted in subsequent chip upgrades. Otomix is an established supplier of martial arts and athletic wear.[15]
  • The Red Shadow Kick, and Red Shadow Uppercut special moves happened randomly in Mortal Kombat II. In Mortal Kombat 4 and Mortal Kombat Gold, selecting Player 2's outfit would cause the moves to have red shadows, rather than green. In MK 2011, the red shadow attacks return as powered up versions of Cage's original green shadow attacks, and in MKX, when Cage has below 5% health, his shadow attacks will turn red.

Mortal Kombat Trilogy

  • Cage's character model was exclusively recreated for Mortal Kombat Trilogy because (contrary to popular belief) Daniel Pesina parted ways with Midway due to a lawsuit over royalties. He was replaced by Chris Alexander.
    • This was the first instance of Cage wearing his sunglasses while fighting, whereas previously, he would only wear them during a victory pose, something that has persisted in all his appearances since then.
  • Reportedly, John Vogel did not like Cage's storyline in Mortal Kombat Trilogy or Mortal Kombat 4.[citation needed] Furthermore, his Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance bio can be viewed as retconning this, with Mortal Kombat: The Death of Johnny Cage explaining and mocking his repeated death and revival during Trilogy and MK4.


Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance

Mortal Kombat: Deception

  • Cage's body can be seen in the introduction of Mortal Kombat: Deception, located on the beginning of the stairway which leads to the Soulnado chamber.

Mortal Kombat (2011)

  • Originally, he used a variant of Mileena's X-Ray Move before it was changed to his infamous "Split Punch".
  • Johnny Cage is both playable in the first chapter of both MK 2011 and MKX.

Mortal Kombat X

  • Johnny Cage is one of only three playable characters to have two throws; his second throw can only be used if Johnny is below 5% maximum health, with Red Shadow active, or if Fist Bump is active in his Fisticuffs variation. The other characters with two throws are Ferra/Torr and Jason Voorhees.
  • Johnny Cage does not wear his sunglasses during fights in the MKX and MK11 Story Mode.
    • However, in MK11, his past self wears his sunglasses. Until the Aftermath story expansion, he no longer wears it during his battle with Shao Kahn or Sindel.
  • During an interaction with Kano, he asks "Didn't you throw me off a bridge?", to which Kano will respond, "Guilty as charged.", a callback to the story of MK 2011; during Johnny's chapter, after defeating Sonya at the Pit, Kano arrives and throws Johnny off of the bridge into the Pit.
    • Both Johnny and Kano have a similar exchange regarding the instance in MK11.
  • Johnny Cage makes several references to other franchises in the film department:
    • During a Mirror Match interaction, one Johnny will ask "How many of us are there?", to which the second Johnny will respond, "There can be only one!", a reference to the film Highlander, a film that starred Christopher Lambert and Clancy Brown. Both actors coincidentally played Raiden, in two separate medias.
    • During an interaction with Kung Lao, Johnny tells him "Zorro's mom wants her hat back", a clear reference to the character Zorro.
    • During an interaction with Jax, he calls him "Tin Man", a reference to the character from the film The Wizard of Oz.
    • During an interaction with Kitana, he says "Hello, nurse!", a reference to the character Hello Nurse from the animated series Animaniacs.
    • During an interaction with Ermac, he says "The Mummy Returns", referencing the movie of the same name.
      • Ermac later received a Pharaoh alternate costume as downloadable content.
      • Another interaction with Ermac has Johnny call him "Mac", a possible reference to the character from the film Mac and Me.
    • During an interaction with Ferra/Torr, he calls the pair "Master Blaster", a reference to the similar looking pair of villains from the film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.
    • During an interaction with Goro, he asks "Don't you owe me some sunglasses?", a reference to the 1995 film, in which Goro taunts Johnny by destroying his sunglasses before their fight.
    • During an interaction with Alien, he will say "It's game over, man!". This is a reference to the Alien's namesake film, in which the character Hudson shouts this line during the film.
      • Coincidentally enough, Johnny's voice actor from MKX, Andrew Bowen, also voiced Hudson in the video game Aliens: Colonial Marines.
    • His Here's Johnny Fatality is a homage to the 1980 horror film, The Shining, namely the scene where Jack Torrance, one of the main characters, tears a crack through a door with an axe, then peeks his face through the crack, uttering the same words as him during the Fatality.
    • In the character select screen, if the player chooses Johnny Cage's Commando outfit and Jax's Carl Weathers outfit, after selecting a level, Johnny will say "You son of a bitch!" and shake Jax's hand. This is a recreation of the handshake scene between the characters Dillon and Dutch from the movie Predator.

Mortal Kombat 11

  • Johnny's Fatality Mr. Cage's Neighborhood is a loving tribute to two PBS children's franchises, Sesame Street and Mr. Roger's Neighborhood.
  • One of Johnny Cage's victory animations features him posing an action figure of himself. The figure has Cassie's name drawn underneath its right foot. This is a reference to Toy Story, where some of the main characters, such as Woody and Buzz, have Andy's name drawn on the soles of their right feet.
  • Johnny is one of the two playable klassic fighters in the story mode whose present-self is playable and has a Mirror Match against his past-self, the second being Scorpion.
    • Unlike other klassic fighters (most particularly Scorpion at most part), excluding Sonya and Raiden due to their present-selves' death, Johnny is the only playable klassic fighter who remained as his present-self nor had his past-self playable in his chapter.
  • Johnny Cage, Jax and Kano are the only known characters to have team-up cutscenes between their past and present selves in the Story Mode.
  • Johnny Cage can be seen in Tank Garage Bunker stage where he is cheering during the fight. He is only absent if the player chooses him or fight against him.
  • All of Johnny Cage's unlockable intros have dialogues that are always the same before the actual intro dialogues ("99, 100", "It's show time", "'Page 62 Johnny Cage dies'? Is someone high?" or "Cage-Con doesn't exist without me! I can pay! Hold on, hold on!")
  • Johnny Cage is one of six announcers and one of five unlockable announcers. The others are Kronika, Shao Kahn, Raiden and RoboCop. To unlock him, the player must play Towers of Time and reach 10% in Race Against Time.
    • If the player chooses a character and stage with Cage as an announcer, he will simply mock or make pop culture references on them.
  • Johnny Cage's Rat Pack skin is directly inspired by the infamous DC villain, The Joker. He is one of the 7 characters to have a skin inspired by a DC character, the other 6 being Kano (Cyborg), Baraka (Killer Croc), Noob Saibot (The Batman Who Laughs), Kitana (Catwoman), Geras (Darkseid) and Cassie Cage (Harley Quinn).
  • In early beta of MK11, when previewing Johnny's belt buckle in the Kosmetic Kustomization, Cage would look down briefly, and when the camera pans to his belt, his left hand would show an "OK" sign. This was changed during its release with Cage flipping the bird instead. [16]
  • If Johnny is selected with one of his Ninja Mime outfits, previewing his glove Kosmetics will alter, where he is trapped in an invisible box before he punches through the box, seemingly breaking it.
  • When previewing Johnny's sunglasses in the Kosmetic Kustomization, at a random moment after selecting a pair of sunglasses, when Johnny flashes his hands, stars and a chime sound will come from his hands.
  • Johnny's "Dub Dub WB" Friendship is a reference to Merrie Melodies character Michigan J. Frog, who also dances with a cane and top hat.
    • "Dub Dub WB" is also a reference to Warner Bros., which owns both the Mortal Kombat and Merrie Melodies franchises.
  • After defeating the past version of Erron Black in his own chapter, Johnny Cage will taunt him for his loss saying: "You chose... poorly". This is a reference to a famous line in the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusader.
    • This is further referenced when Erron Black receives a costume that looks similar to the uniform of the movie's titular protagonist.
  • The dog tag Johnny wears in all of his Present skins reads: "Johnny Cage. Blood: Yours. Religion: Cage."
  • In the story mode, Johnny uses a special set without sunglasses that can't be replicated, as it's normally impossible to remove them.

Mortal Kombat 1

  • The code used to unlock Johnny Cage's mansion is ABACABB, which is the infamous "Blood Code" featured in the Sega Genesis version of Mortal Kombat.
  • He is the second time uses the sound effect of "Toasty" (his second Fatality), the first is Scorpion (aka Hanzo Hasashi) in MKII (with message) and MK4.
  • Prior the Battle of Armageddon, Johnny Cage, Ashrah and Havik are the only characters from the Main Roster whose 'dark' counterpart hasn't been summoned by titan Shang Tsung. That include counterparts that aren't fought during the story either as opponents or Kameos.
  • Johnny Cage's render uses his "Union of Light" costume instead of his default "New Era" outfit.

Errors

  • In MK11, when selecting a pair of sunglasses in the Kustomization, two things happen;
    • Depending on the sunglasses, Johnny will be incorrectly holding them, to the point that the glasses are floating.
    • Depending on the sunglasses and due to the above error, the glasses will clip through Johnny's fingers completely.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Page 15, Mortal Kombat Collector's Edition (1992)
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 Mortal Kombat - Nintendo SNES - Manual - gamesdatabase.org
  3. Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate on Twitter: "🤔 #MKUltimate" / Twitter
  4. https://www.ign.com/articles/mortal-kombat-legends-cage-match-will-arrive-in-2023-with-joel-mchale-returning-as-johnny-cage?utm_source=twitter
  5. 5.0 5.1 Kombat Kast | Johnny Cage Walkthrough Ep. 3 | Mortal Kombat - YouTube
  6. Arbeiter, Michael (April 13, 2015). 15 Things You Might Not Know About Mortal Kombat. Mental Floss. Dennis Publishing.
  7. Leatherman, Benjamin (August 11, 2017). Mortal Kombat's Daniel Pesina on Being Johnny Cage, Helping Create Fatalities, and Giving Scorpion His Spear. Phoenix New Times.
  8. 8.0 8.1 Mortal Kombat 20th Anniversary Retrospective (2011-04-19).
  9. Goldman, Michael; Aaron, Richard E. (1995). "Ed Boon & John Tobias Interview". MK3 Official Kollector's Book. Electronic Gaming Monthly.
  10. An Oral History of Mortal Kombat (en-US) (2018-11-26).
  11. Arnold, J. Douglas; Meston, Zach (1995). Mortal Kombat 3: Player's Guide. Sandwich Islands Publishing. ISBN 1884364144.
  12. IGN: Johnny Cage (Retrieved from Internet Archive)
  13. John Tobias. More doodles from my ancient MK notebook. JohnnyCage on Twitpic. Twitpic.com.
  14. Flawless Victory! 20 Things You Didn’t Know About The 1995 Mortal Kombat Movie | Eighties Kids
  15. Mortal Kombat II in Development - Mortal Kombat Secrets
  16. Middle Finger = Acceptable, Okay Sign = BAD | Mortal Kombat 11 | Know Your Meme

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