Jason Momoa has explained why his upcoming role in the Street Fighter movie is such a perfect fit for him. Based on the beloved Capcom fighting game series, the film will be directed by Kitao Sakurai and written by Dalan Musson. The adaptation will follow estranged street fighters Ryu and Ken Masters as they are recruited by Chun-Li for the ᴅᴇᴀᴅly World Warrior Tournament.

The Street Fighter movie has been generating buzz since the mᴀssive ensemble cast was announced, including Momoa as Blanka, Noah Centineo as Ken Masters, Andrew Koji as Ryu, Callina Liang as Chun-Li, Roman Reigns as Akuma, David Dastmalchian as M. Bison, Cody Rhodes as Guile, Andrew Schulz as Dan Hibiki, Eric André as Don Sauvage, 50 Cent as Balrog, Orville Peck as Vega, and Kyle Mooney as Marvin.

As reported by Games Radar, Momoa spoke to The Playlist while promoting his newest project, The Chief of War, and talked about his excitement for the Street Fighter movie, praising the cast, teasing the fight scenes, and revealing that the beloved 80s video game is the only game he’s played. Read his full comments below:

There’s no one better to play Blanka, so that’s why I’m doing it. We’ll do what the audience would like to see — practical, CG — we’re gonna do our best. The cast is insane. My son and I play it; it’s the only game I played.

What This Means For The Street Fighter Movie

Blanka is a beloved character in the Street Fighter universe. Debuting in 1991, Blanka was the ape-like character famous for curling up in a ball and electrocuting anyone who came near him. Momoa’s casting as Blanka is very exciting. Known for his role as Aquaman, Momoa’s physicality, experience with CGI and stunt-heavy roles, and obvious appreciation for the franchise make him a perfect fit to play the Street Fighter monster.

With 17 Street Fighter video game characters confirmed to appear in the upcoming movie, the ensemble cast promises to bring high energy and respect for the audience’s expectations. Momoa’s comments highlight how much care is going into the adaptation, implying that the film aims to honor the franchise’s legacy while still creating something new for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Sony and Legendary began developing a new Street Fighter movie in April 2023, with Danny and Michael Philippou set to direct. However, the duo backed away from the project, and it wasn’t until February 2025 that the video game adaptation found its new director in Sukarai, and production started to move forward.

Our Take On The Street Fighter Movie

This ambitious roster suggests that the adaptation intends to capture the chaotic, tournament-style energy of the video games, rather than focusing it too narrowly on just a handful of characters. If done well, Street Fighter could be one of the best video game movies coming in 2026, and Momoa’s Blanka could stand out as one of the film’s most memorable fighters.

While adapting video games to screen has always been tricky, it seems that this version intents on respecting the source material’s legacy while also upping the spectacle. If Momoa’s excitement is any indication, the upcoming movie could deliver the Street Fighter movie adaptation fans have been waiting for.

The Street Fighter movie will be released in theaters on October 16, 2026.