ONE Championship is partnering with Hollywood legend Russell Crowe to help bring his next blockbuster vision to life. 

It was announced today that the world’s largest martial arts organization is coming on board as a producer/consultant for upcoming feature-length MMA action-drama “The Beast In Me,” from U.S.-based Broken Open Pictures.

The film stars Academy Award-winning actor Crowe himself – who co-wrote the script – and Daniel MacPherson, and will have appearances from select ONE stars as well as ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong.

Russell Crowe and ONE Championship’s ‘The Beast In Me’ aims to tell a story of “grit, perseverance and determination”

In the film, MacPherson plays an out-of-work former MMA fighter who suffers a personal tragedy involving his brother. With the help of a veteran trainer played by Crowe, he sets out to avenge his brother by coming out of retirement to compete in ONE Championship.

Production of the film is expected to begin later this year. Among the key locations will be Bangkok, Thailand. A ONE Friday Fights live event in January will host an MMA scene for the movie, with fight week also providing a setting for more additional footage. 

In a press statement, Chatri Sityodtong shared his excitement about the partnership, saying:  “I am thrilled to be partnering with the star-studded cast and production team behind The Beast In Me. I am confident ONE is the best platform to help tell their story of grit, perseverance, and determination. We cannot wait to host their entire team in Bangkok at a ONE Friday Fights fight week in January.”

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Meanwhile, David Frigerio, Producer and Co-Writer of The Beast In Me, echoed the ONE Chief’s sentiments, as the organization reflects the same values they want to portray for martial arts. He said: “We are excited to be partnering with ONE Championship as we create a film that resonates with fans, celebrating the spirit of competition, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness. With access to ONE’s vast network of athletes and events, we are poised to deliver an exhilarating cinematic experience that reflects the true heart of martial arts.”

Tyler Atkins will direct the film and Frigerio, along with Tim O’Hair and John Schwarz, will produce. Shane Abbess and Brett Thornquest will executive produce.

Crowe shared a behind-the-scenes glimpse during Joe Rogan podcast appearance

In a recent appearance at the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Crowe teased that he was working on the film and shared that ONE Championship captured his interest in the process of deep diving into the all-encompassing sport of MMA. The veteran actor appreciated the promotion’s showcase of multiple disciplines of martial arts as well as portraying its athletes as heroes, which aligns with what he wanted to show in the film. 

With this partnership, “The Beast In Me” will add more depth and reality to the story it aims to tell.