The line between the squared circle and the silver screen continues to blur, and with a little playful ribbing thrown in. Roman Reigns, the current WWE Champion, has suggested that Cody Rhodes, his former rival and co-star in the upcoming “Street Fighter” movie, may have been a bit apprehensive about sharing the set. The comments stem from Rhodes’ own remarks about limited interaction with Reigns during filming, a dynamic Reigns attributes to a touch of understandable nervousness.
Speaking on the “Adam’s Apple” podcast, Reigns recounted the situation with a characteristic smirk. “The rumor is, he was requesting that,” Reigns said, referring to Rhodes potentially seeking to avoid crossing paths on set. “He was a little nervous that I was showing up. He got there before me and there was only a couple days of crossover. I think he was a little nervous. You know what it is. The Tribal Chief comes to town and he gets a little nervous. He doesn’t know what to do.” The playful exchange highlights the complex history between the two wrestlers, a rivalry that captivated WWE fans for years and culminated in Rhodes finally defeating Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40 in April 2024. WWE.com confirmed Rhodes’ victory.
From WrestleMania Foes to Cinematic Co-Stars
The dynamic between Reigns and Rhodes extends beyond the wrestling ring and into the world of video game adaptations. Both are featured in the live-action “Street Fighter” movie, slated for release in October 2026. Reigns embodies the menacing Akuma, a powerful and villainous character known for his devastating attacks, while Rhodes takes on the role of Guile, the all-American hero. This casting choice isn’t accidental; it mirrors their real-life roles as antagonist and protagonist, a narrative that played out across multiple high-profile WWE events, including main events at WrestleMania 39 and 40.
Rhodes previously alluded to the unusual atmosphere on set, telling an interviewer that crew members anticipated a potential altercation between the two stars, leading to deliberate efforts to keep them separated. He described their relationship as “crazy” and “strange,” acknowledging the weight of their shared history within WWE. The tension, while seemingly contained, speaks to the intensity of their rivalry and the lingering competitive spirit between the two athletes.
A Look Behind the Scenes of the “Street Fighter” Adaptation
Principal photography for the “Street Fighter” movie began in Australia on August 18, 2025, and wrapped on November 12, 2025, according to Deadline. The film, directed by Kitao Sakurai and written by Dalan Musson, is a co-production between Legendary and Capcom, the creators of the iconic fighting game franchise. It’s the first major live-action adaptation since the 1994 film starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, which gained a cult following despite mixed reviews.
The new adaptation boasts an impressive ensemble cast alongside Reigns and Rhodes. Jason Momoa steps into the role of Blanka, the wild and untamed Brazilian fighter, while Noah Centineo portrays Ken Masters, Ryu’s longtime friend and rival. Andrew Koji takes on the stoic and disciplined Ryu, and Callina Liang embodies the determined Chun-Li. David Dastmalchian plays the villainous M. Bison, 50 Cent is cast as Balrog, and Andrew Schulz rounds out the cast as Dan Hibiki. The film is set in 1993 and follows Ryu and Ken as they are drawn back into the world of combat by Chun-Li and the World Warrior Tournament.
Filmed in IMAX, the movie aims to deliver a visually stunning and action-packed experience for fans of the “Street Fighter” series. Legendary’s distribution deal with Paramount Pictures ensures a wide theatrical release, potentially reaching a broader audience than previous adaptations. The production team has emphasized a commitment to staying true to the spirit of the games while too crafting a compelling narrative for newcomers.
The Evolving Relationship Between Reigns and Rhodes
Despite their intense rivalry, Reigns and Rhodes have demonstrated a level of respect and professionalism that extends beyond the wrestling ring. Following Rhodes’ championship victory at WrestleMania 40, the two later teamed up at Survivor Series 2025, signaling a potential shift in their dynamic. This alliance, while perhaps unexpected, underscores the collaborative nature of professional wrestling and the ability of performers to separate their on-screen personas from their real-life relationships.
The “Street Fighter” movie provides another platform for Reigns and Rhodes to showcase their talents and further explore their complex relationship. While Reigns playfully suggests Rhodes was nervous on set, it’s likely a testament to the genuine intensity of their rivalry and the lingering competitive spirit that continues to fuel their interactions. The film’s success will depend not only on its action sequences and visual effects but also on the chemistry between its stars, a chemistry forged in the crucible of WWE’s biggest events.
As October 2026 approaches, fans eagerly await the release of “Street Fighter,” hoping for a faithful adaptation of the beloved video game franchise and a glimpse into the evolving dynamic between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes. The film represents a new chapter in their careers, one that blends the worlds of professional wrestling and cinematic storytelling.
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