ONE Championship founder Chatri Sityodtong has expressed his excitement for the upcoming Hollywood film The Beast In Me, which will feature both the organization and Muay Thai prominently. Starring Russell Crowe, the film aims to bring Thailand and its martial arts tradition into the global spotlight.
Production is set to begin in December, with a key scene scheduled to be filmed during a ONE Friday Fights event on 24 January at Bangkok’s Impact Arena, according to Sityodtong. The film, co-written by Crowe, will integrate ONE Championship’s events into its storyline, with the actor portraying an ex-fighter turned coach within the organization.
“This is not just a cameo,” Sityodtong stated during a press conference for ONE Friday Fights 81. He explained that Crowe’s character mentors a former world champion seeking revenge after his brother is injured in an illegal blow during a fight. The movie’s plot is closely tied to ONE Championship, with live footage from actual events being used.
The CEO highlighted his enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting, “A Hollywood blockbuster with Russell Crowe has the potential to be a massive global hit. We’re thrilled to be part of it.”
Sityodtong also stressed the authenticity of the film, confirming that ONE Championship had significant input on the script and that many of its athletes, along with gym owners and promoters, would appear in the film. The final scene will be shot in Thailand, further cementing the nation’s role in the project.
The Beast In Me will also film in the United States and Australia, expanding its international reach, Sityodtong told the Bangkok Post. He described the project as a personal and national milestone: “This is a dream come true for me and, I believe, for Thailand as well.”
