Bruce Lee had filmed over 30 minutes worth of fight scenes with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for this film when work was suspended to allow Lee to work on Enter the Dragon (1973). However, Lee died in unusual circumstances before he could return. Six years later, director Robert Clouse fleshed out a feature around the original footage with a new cast, including two stand-ins for Lee, who appear wearing dark sunglasses when not shown from behind. Close-ups of Lee's eyes or face were also sometimes spliced in. See also Si wang ta (1981).

The official cause of Lee's death was a brain edema, but many people believe there is more to the story than this. One persistent rumour is that he was killed by kung fu masters for revealing too many of their secrets. In the film, Lee's character fakes his own death; the shots of his funeral include real shots of Lee's coffin.

Bruce's much imitated yellow track suit worn by Uma Thurman in Kill Bill

Bruce Lee wore this yellow track suit to signify his belief in having no "style" meaning a school of fighting. His philosophy and approach to combat allowed him to adapt to each opponent he faced no matter what style or discipline they studied.