Mortal Kombat 30th Anniversary: 10 Greatest Story Moments Ever

Liu Kang is Mortal Kombat's greatest hero and has aided Earthrealm for years. He won the tournaments in the first two games, defeated Shao Kahn in Mortal Kombat 3, and even repelled Shinnok in Mortal Kombat 4. Every time there was a threat against the realm, you could count on the Chosen One to save the day.

In Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance, however, our hero's luck finally ran out.

While in the middle of training, he was ambushed by Shang Tsung under the guise of Kung Lao. The two duel with Kang getting the upper hand but is then attacked from behind by Quan Chi. Vulnerable, Shang places his hands on Liu's neck and breaks it, killing him instantly.

As a token of his victory, he takes his soul and adds it to his power. In just a few moments, Earthrealm loses its greatest champion and leaves Raiden and the others to pick up the pieces.

Liu Kang's death was a turning point for the franchise and shocked fans everywhere. His demise would start a string of losses for our heroes until the rebooted timeline would set things right.