After fighters like Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano go Hollywood, it seems that mixed martial artists are a hot commodity in the film industry these days.
In the latest development, local film production house, Grand Brilliance roped in two of Malaysia's finest MMA athletes, Peter Davis and Saiful Merican to star in its upcoming film, J Revolusi.
The 2017 spy-action flick is a collaboration film between Grand Brilliance and Infinitus Productions, a company owned by Hong Kong megastar Andy Lau.
J Revolusi, a film about the life of the Special Actions Unit (UTK) police, would also be Lau's maiden production in Kuala Lumpur.
The movie will feature Malaysia's biggest stars like Zul Ariffin, Nur Fazura and Farid Kamil.
READ: Justin Bieber, Rihanna to perform at MMA fights?
Davis and Saiful, who would be portrayed as villains in the movie, were thrilled at the chance to participate in the movie.
The 34-year-old Davis believed that the opportunity benefits both Malaysian film industry and MMA in Asia.
"MMA has brought so much opportunity to my life, more than I could possibly imagine.
"Although I love being a fighter, my creative expression is piqued by the art of film and I am more than thrilled to be a part of J Revolusi," he told ONE Championship.
He added that the fact that the movie using real MMA fighters to do fight sequences and to assist in fight choreography is a testament to MMA's tremendous growth in the region.
But Davis is no stranger to showbiz. He has enjoyed stints previously as an actor, TV host and fashion model, apart from his promising MMA career.
In ONE Championship, he is one of the lightweight division's best fighters.
Saiful, on the other hand, could not contain his excitement at the possibility of living out his dream of being an actor.
"Being in a movie is everyone's dream, and I'm lucky I get to be a part of this amazing production.
"MMA has opened doors for my career and I am truly thankful for the opportunity. I can't wait and am excited to be a part of it all!" exclaimed 27-year-old.
J Revolusi is scheduled for filming this May with a targeted early 2017 release.
Haider Yutim
Sat Apr 23 2016
Davis (front, right), Saiful (front, left) with the cast and crew of 'J Revolusi'. - Scorpius Entertainment
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