The demonic Street Fighter character Akuma is reportedly the specific role under consideration for WWE’s Roman Reigns in an upcoming live-action film adaptation of the video game franchise. This potential casting would mark a notable departure from Reigns’ previous acting experiences.
According to information attributed to Fightful Select, which cited sources within the film and gaming industries, Roman Reigns, also known by his real name Leati Joseph Anoa’i, is being discussed for the part of Akuma. The report further indicated that these discussions regarding Reigns’ participation are in their preliminary stages.
Akuma, who first appeared in Super Street Fighter II Turbo, is depicted as a formidable villain known for immense strength, distinctive red hair, and supernatural combat abilities, adhering to a ruthless martial arts doctrine. Portraying one of Capcom’s darker and more violent characters would represent a new direction for Reigns, whose prior film work includes roles in Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw and The Wrong Missy.
The Street Fighter motion picture is set to be directed by Kitao Sakurai. Details concerning the film’s plot are currently being kept confidential by the production.
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