Roman Reigns Cast as Akuma in Live-Action Street Fighter

Image: Roman Reigns Cast as Akuma

WWE superstar Roman Reigns, also known as Joe Anoa’i, has officially joined the cast of the upcoming live-action Street Fighter reboot by Legendary Entertainment. Reigns is set to portray Akuma, one of the franchise's most iconic and powerful characters, marking the character’s first-ever appearance in a live-action theatrical film.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Reigns will join a star-studded lineup that includes Andrew Koji as Ryu (reportedly the film’s lead), Callina Liang as Chun-Li, and 50 Cent as Balrog.

Also rumored in the cast are Jason Momoa as Blanka, Noah Centineo as Ken Masters, and Orville Peck as Vega.

The film will be directed by Kitao Sakurai and is scheduled to begin production in August in Australia. It’s being co-developed by Legendary and Capcom, the original creators of the Street Fighter series.

Akuma, known as Gouki in Japan, is a fan-favorite character who made his debut in Super Street Fighter II Turbo back in 1994. He’s infamous for embracing the dark martial art energy known as the “Satsui no Hado,” setting him apart as a brutal and solitary warrior obsessed with strength and perfection. Akuma is also the brother of Gouken, the mentor to Ryu and Ken. While he’s been featured in animated adaptations and various video games, this upcoming film will be the character’s first major live-action portrayal.

Reigns, who has previously appeared in Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, will be taking on what many see as his biggest film role yet. His casting as Akuma has drawn mixed reactions online. On one hand, some fans praise the move, citing Reigns’ physicality, commanding presence, and dramatic flair from his WWE storylines—especially his run with The Bloodline. On the other hand, critics argue that Reigns may not align with Akuma’s distinctly Japanese origins and mythological aesthetic, raising questions about cultural authenticity and casting accuracy.

Still, Street Fighter is no stranger to bold creative choices, and this reboot appears to be no exception. 50 Cent’s casting as Balrog, for instance, adds another layer of intrigue. According to THR, Jackson is already undergoing intense training and plans to perform his own stunts—suggesting that the film aims for a gritty, action-heavy tone.

Currently, the movie doesn’t have a set release date after being taken off Sony’s schedule. While the studio is keeping the story details under wraps, expectations are high given the cast, creative team, and legacy of the franchise.

As for Reigns, his WWE status remains in limbo. He hasn’t been seen on programming since WrestleMania 41, where he was written off in a shocking alliance beatdown by Bron Breakker, Seth Rollins, and Paul Heyman. However, rumors suggest he might make a return at SummerSlam 2025, balancing his wrestling commitments with his foray into Hollywood.