Becoming a video-game fighter takes more than learning choreography. Noah Centineo and Andrew Koji took their preparation seriously for the upcoming Street Fighter movie. Centineo plays Ken Masters, while Koji takes on the role of Ryu.
The actors spent weeks building the strength, speed and fighting skills needed for the project. Their goal went beyond looking convincing on camera. They wanted their characters to move like experienced martial artists.
Six Weeks of Intense Training
Centineo revealed that he trained with Koji and Callina Liang for six weeks. The group trained six days every week. Their demanding schedule focused on martial arts, conditioning and fight choreography.
The training helped the actors prepare for the physical demands of the movie. It also gave them time to develop the movements of their characters. Every punch, kick and defensive move needed to feel natural.
Andrew Koji Brings Martial Arts Experience
Koji already had extensive action experience before joining Street Fighter. His work on Warrior gave him a strong foundation in martial arts performance. He also appeared in Snake Eyes.
For Ryu, Koji studied several fighting disciplines. His preparation included Shotokan karate, judo, jujitsu and kickboxing. These styles helped him understand Ryu’s movement and combat philosophy.
Koji also understands the cultural importance of Ryu. The character has remained one of gaming’s most recognizable Asian heroes for decades. That connection gives Koji another reason to approach the role with care.
Noah Centineo Transforms Into Ken
Centineo also embraced a major physical transformation. Ken requires athletic movement, explosive attacks and a distinctive fighting style. The actor’s training helped him build the physical presence needed for the character.
His transformation also includes Ken’s recognizable appearance. The long blond hair and martial-arts costume give Centineo a very different look from many of his previous roles.
A Bigger Street Fighter Experience
The movie features several other major characters from the game. Callina Liang plays Chun-Li. Jason Momoa plays Blanka. Cody Rhodes portrays Guile. David Dastmalchian plays M. Bison, while Vidyut Jammwal takes on Dhalsim.
Paramount Pictures and Legendary Entertainment are bringing the franchise back to theaters on October 16, 2026. The production also aims to deliver a large-scale action experience for longtime fans and new audiences.
Centineo and Koji’s preparation could become one of the film’s biggest strengths. Fans know Ken and Ryu for their iconic moves. Now, audiences will see whether the actors can bring that legendary rivalry to life with convincing physical performances.
#StreetFighter #NoahCentineo #AndrewKoji #KenMasters #Ryu #CallinaLiang #StreetFighter2026 #MartialArts #ActionMovies #Hollywood #MovieNews #GamingMovies #digitalnewsforall