Mortal Kombat is not the only fighting game adaptation punching it’s way onto the big screen this year, and as the upcoming Paramount Pictures film Street Fighter enters the ring this October, I thought it be best if we knock out some homework on who is who in this upcoming adaptation of the hit video game.
Street Fighter has been a staple of arcade fighting games since it’s initial release way back in 1987 by CAPCOM. Since then we have had 6 mainline games as well as countless remixes, adaptations, spin offs and crossovers including with the infamous and well loved game Marvel Vs Capcom.
On top of the mainline games, it has also seen many format adaptations including animes, cartoons, Manga, comic books and a few less than good live action attempts including the notorious 1994 adaptation starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Kylie Minogue which itself got a game adaption (so adapting a game into a movie then back into a game as the 90’s was such a colourful time).
Across all of these adaptations and mainlines games we have over 90 characters scattered throughout, although more than a fair few are one off and could be considered ‘non canon’ to the mainline story and events of the games. With that in mind though, let’s go through the confirmed cast list of characters that are due to appear in the upcoming 2026 and just who they are (at least in the games they come from)
Ryu
Played by Andrew Koji
Most likely the most recognisable character in the Street Fighter line up, Ryu has been a staple of the Street Fighter series since it’s beginnings back in 1987 and has appeared in every single game ever since. Defined by his lifelong quest to become a “true warrior.” He is a stoic, humble nomad who travels the world seeking worthy opponents to test his skills and character.
In the film, it appears he has tried some peaceful life route, but is dragged back into the world of combat by Chun-Li and goaded by Ken Masters. His iconic white gi, red gloves and his signature Hadoken can be seen in the final shot of the latest trailer.
Ken Masters
Played by Noah Centineo
Starting life as a character clone of Ryu, Ken has since grown into his own character and almost ‘opposite’ of what Ryu’s character was. First appearing in the 1987 series and being a continuous character since. Ken was a lifelong friend of Ryu and trained alongside him growing up, their personalities however differed greatly. While Ryu was serious and stoic, Ken leans more towards a big ego and bravado. He does however have a big heart and alot of respect to those he fights.
His 2026 movie version however looks to shift him into an ego heavy deadbeat who chased fame on MTV and is now being called up by Chun-Li and Ryu to fight in the tournament.
Chun-Li
Played by Callina Liang
One could argue, the most recognisable thighs in video game history, Chun-Li made her debut back in Street Fighter II and has since become the main female protagonist of the video game franchise. An expert martial artist as well as an interpol agent, she fights with a strong sense of justice and a deep desire to seek revenge for the death of her father.
It appears that in the 2026 movie, her role will be the recruiter for majority of the fighters as she is seen recruiting Ken, Ryu, Zangeif and appears to even be working for M. Bison. That being said, I would not be shocked if this was part of her interpol agent and she is infiltrating his ranks.
M. Bison
Played by David Dastmalchian
Another win for David Dastmalchian who is on a long term winning streak with his roles as of late. M Bison is one of the series most long running antagonists and the final boss of Street Fighter II. Known for his bold red military uniform, he is mostly a cliche style villain who serves his own interest and wields an intense power called Psycho Power. In the movie, it appears he will be the host of the World Warrior Tournament and has Cammy and Chun-Li on his side as well as a small army of soldiers.
Akuma
Played by Joe “Roman Reigns” Anoa’i
The ‘dark mirror’ to Ryu and Ken, he trained with them under their master before going separate ways. Akuma is a cold, powerful warrior who wants nothing but to fight. Originally a secret final boss for Super Street Fighter II Turbo, he has since become a character well within his own right and a continuous antagonist in future games.
He is briefly shown in the film building up his signature move Gohadoken as well as sending Ryu flying back with a flaming punch.
Balrog
Played by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson
Powerhouse boxer Balrog first rocked up as a unplayable boss in Street Fighter II before being upgraded to playable in the Champion Edition, he is a greedy american boxer who also works as the personal bodyguard to M Bison. Though as an adult he is into the wealthy life and gambling, he grew up poor before he became a boxing legend at 17 years old.
He’s popped up in the two trailers as clearly a famous boxer but not confirmed if he is the bodyguard to M Bison in this version. He has been seen throwing a solid punch to Ken’s face as well as dropping the hilarious line “that was some abracadabra shit” most likely at seeing some of the more unusual fighting skills the other fighters show.
Vega
Played by Orville Peck
The masked, claw-wielding matador first popped up in Street Fighter II as a non playable boss like Balrog before he too got a playable upgrade in the Champion Edition. Same with Balrog, he too was introduced as a bodyguard for M. Bison. Though seemingly in the same position as Balrog though they don’t have a pleasant history with each other. He is an effeminate, flamboyant narcissist although all linked to a tragic backstory.
He is briefly seen in the trailers locking into a fight with Guile and getting comically thrown through a solid wall as well as taking a fair few hits with Chun-Li’s leg. Bonus points for casting as Orville Peck is known for wearing masks himself.
Blanka
Played by Jason Mamoa
A feral, green man from the Brazillian jungle, he has a unique ability to generate electricity. First appearing in Street Fighter II, he has since become one of the more popular characters in the franchise. Despite his appearance though, Blanka is actually quick a passive and docile man until he is forced into anger.
He can briefly be seen in the latest trailer in a blink and miss it moment erupting out of some rubble and fighting in some sort of underground cage match. Mamoa is understandably excited to be bringing the character to the big screen.
Guile
Played by Cody Rhodes
The iconic flat-top stands tall with the US Air Force Pilot Guile and his ridiculous haircut.
He is a one man army, whose goal is to destroy the criminal organisation known as Shadaloo which is run by M. Bison. First introduced back in Street Fighter II, he had consistent appearances throughout the games and its numerous spin offs.
He is a typical tough guy right down to his core as well as a family man and maintains a strong loyalty to the US Air Force though is driven by his immediate goal.
He crops up throughout the trailers, laying the smack down on Vega, as well as looking like abit of a tool next to Ryu when he whispers “boom” and a quick line drop at the end about Ryu’s abilities.
Dhalsim
Played by Vidyut Jammwal
Another character making his debut in Street Fighter II, Dhalsim has the best range of any other fighter. A master of yoga, he is able to stretch his body as well as conjure fire. He is a highly disciplined, pacifist but is always willing to fight in friendly combat.
In another move of perfect casting, Vidyut Jammwal is an expert in Kalaripayattu, which should make the yoga master’s movements really stand out on the big screen.
Zangief
Played by Olivier Richters
Standing at over 7 feet tall, this legendary character has been a staple of Street Fighter for Street Fighter II. Made even more famous from his brief appearance in Disney’s Wreck it Ralph film (able to crush sparrow egg between thighs). This Russian hero is incredibly patriotic to his homeland and despite his rough exterior he is fairly carefree and good natured. Seen in the trailer being recruited by Chun-Li and again with his signature move the “Spinning Piledriver” onto a soon to be very sore Ken. Olivier Richters aka “The Dutch Giant” is the only logical choice for the Red Cyclone.
Dan Hibiki
Played by Andrew Schulz
First appearing in Street Fighter Alpha, this joke of a fighter is self trained and runs a failing dojo. Despite this however, his personal view on himself is unmeasured. He refuses to back down from any fight, despite his record of losses. For all his flaws though, he is good natured and always wants to help. He can be seen in the trailer, as an avid supporter of Ken in the ring.
Cammy
Played by Mel Jarnson
Another female character with a distinct costume in the series, Cammy first appeared in Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers and has since been a recurring character in future instalments. While originally a female close body for M. Bison, she since broke free and became an MI6 operative and works to take down M. Bisons’ operations. However, as we have seen in the trailer she appears to be working with M. Bison and sporting some sort of rivalry against Chun-Li. In a more rare twist, Mel Jarnson briefly appeared in the 2021 Mortal Kombat film as Nitara but has now made the jump to the Capcom side.
E. Honda
Played by Hirooki Goto
Another Street Fighter II debut, E. Honda is a Japanese Sumo wrestler who is incredible traditional. A grand master in his field, he is a strict and honourable fighter. Holding close friendships with the likes of Ryu and Zangief, he tends to not hold too many grudges against his foes. He is also a skilled businessmen holding many businesses outside of his fighting.
He can briefly be seen in the trailer kicking off in a sauna. Bonus points in casting since Hirooki Goto is himself a pro-wrestler actor.
Don Sauvage
Played by Eric André
Finally we have Don Sauvage, making his debut in Street Fighter V as a ring announcer. He is the newest character to be appearing in the film and while not in a fighting capacity, he will be dropping key commentary on the fights as they unfold.
Played by the equally chaotic Eric André in what will be no doubt, some of the funniest lines in the film. He can briefly be seen hyping up the crowd in what looks to be the fight between Ken and Dhalsim.
There you have it! Street Fighter looks to be an over the top, high octane and truly insane fighting movie. Looking to take on Mortal Kombat II to be this years top fighting game film adaptation of 2026.
While Street Fighter has not been my deepest lore knowledge, it’s been a lot of fun learning the crazy history of these characters and this franchise and I cannot wait to see this on the big screen when Street Fighter drops on the October 16, 2026.
