Credit: WWE.com
The highly anticipated Street Fighter movie is advancing rapidly, confirming WWE superstars Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes in starring roles. The film, set for release on October 16, 2026, is a live-action adaptation of the iconic Capcom fighting game franchise and seeks to blend nostalgia with modern cinematic action.
WWE Stars Embrace Iconic Gaming Characters
Roman Reigns, known in WWE as “The Tribal Chief,” will portray Akuma, the dark and fearsome warrior from the Street Fighter universe. Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes recently crowned as the reigning WWE Champion will take on the role of Guile, the patriotic and determined military hero.
This casting represents a natural fit for both performers, as Reigns’ intense screen presence matches Akuma’s intimidating aura, while Rhodes’ charismatic storytelling abilities align well with Guile’s heroic persona. According to sources close to the project, “both men have shown that they can bring larger-than-life characters to life outside the wrestling ring. This film could be their breakthrough in Hollywood”.
An All-Star Cast and 1990s Setting
The film is directed by Kitao Sakurai and will honor the spirit of Street Fighter II, setting the story back in 1993 the height of the arcade-era gaming boom. The storyline centers on legendary fighters Ryu (Andrew Koji) and Ken Masters (Noah Centineo), who are recruited by Chun-Li (Callina Liang) to compete in the World Warrior Tournament, uncovering a deadly conspiracy that threatens them all.
Joining Reigns and Rhodes is a star-studded ensemble including:
- Jason Momoa as Blanka
- Hirooki Goto (New Japan Pro-Wrestling star) as E. Honda
- Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson as Balrog
- Comedians Andrew Schulz and Eric Andre as Dan Hibiki and Don Sauvage respectively
- UFC fighter Alexander Volkanovski as Joe
This eclectic cast aims to merge the worlds of wrestling, gaming, music, comedy, and martial arts to create an exciting, fresh take on a beloved franchise.
WWE Ties and Career Transitions
Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes are two of WWE’s biggest stars, having headlined major events like WrestleMania 39 and 40 where they clashed in highly acclaimed matches[2]. With Reigns ending his historic WWE Universal Title reign of 1,316 consecutive days at WrestleMania 40, and Rhodes capturing the championship, both wrestlers are now entering a fresh chapter.
A WWE insider revealed:
“Roman and Cody’s involvement in the Street Fighter movie has been written into their current WWE storylines. This dual commitment allows them to step away from TV for a while without losing momentum. The company fully supports their growing Hollywood careers.”
Rhodes, who recently welcomed a newborn with his wife Brandi, has taken a hiatus from WWE programming to focus on filming. Reigns was also written off TV at the recent WWE Clash in Paris event to accommodate his movie schedule.
Promising Hollywood Potential for WWE Athletes
The partnership between WWE talent and high-profile movie productions continues to grow, and this project exemplifies that momentum. Training in both wrestling and acting has equipped Reigns and Rhodes with the skills needed to cross over into mainstream entertainment.
Industry sources indicate that producers were eager to cast familiar faces with strong fan bases to attract diverse audiences. Rhodes’ and Reigns’ star power is expected to bring new viewers to the Street Fighter franchise while paying homage to the classic video games.
What to Expect from the Street Fighter Movie
- The movie promises dynamic fight sequences faithful to the original games’ style, boosted by modern choreography and cinematic technology.
- The narrative explores themes of honor, rivalry, and redemption, with plenty of action and drama to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers.
- Filming locations and IMAX production techniques aim to deliver an immersive, visually spectacular experience.
Kitao Sakurai, the film’s director, describes the project as “capturing the quarter-pumping, button-mashing spirit of the 90s classic while leveling up for a new generation”.
Release Date and Upcoming Expectations
Street Fighter is scheduled to hit theaters on October 16, 2026, under a partnership between Legendary Entertainment and Paramount Pictures, marking the first release under their new multi-year distribution deal. The buzz is growing as production progresses through 2025, with fans eagerly awaiting glimpses of Reigns and Rhodes in character.
As this film brings together iconic video game characters and WWE superstars, it represents a unique fusion of pop culture. Wrestling fans, gamers, and action movie enthusiasts alike will no doubt be watching closely.
“It’s exciting to see WWE talent transition to major film roles,” said a WWE insider. “Roman and Cody are proving that their charisma and athleticism hold up beyond the ring, and this is just the beginning.”
The intersection of professional wrestling and blockbuster cinema continues to evolve, with the Street Fighter movie poised to be one of the biggest crossover events in recent memory. WWE fans can look forward to seeing two of their stars take on legendary fighters in an epic battle for glory come fall 2026.