Zack Snyder, known for his larger-than-life films like Rebel Moon and Justice League, seems ready to swap galactic battles for something much grittier: the world of UFC. After the massive scale of Rebel Moon, Snyder has hinted at a desire to “go smaller” with his next project — and this upcoming film, set in the high-stakes arena of mixed martial arts, might be just the ticket.
Co-written by Zach Baylin (King Richard) and Snyder himself, the film is reportedly set to include direct involvement from the UFC, with president Dana White on board. With locations locked in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Las Vegas, it's clear this project is shaping up to be far from small in terms of ambition and backing.
While the cast is still in the early stages, rumors suggest that Snyder has approached none other than Adam Driver to take on the lead role. Though Driver isn't confirmed yet, his involvement would certainly elevate this film's appeal. Known for his versatility — from Kylo Ren in Star Wars to more intimate performances in films like Marriage Story — Driver seems like a perfect fit for the intense, physical role Snyder likely has in mind.
Interestingly, this marks a significant departure from Snyder's typical high-VFX spectacles. In a recent interview, the director expressed a desire to move away from heavy visual effects, saying, “Can I just do a movie without any visual effects for like five minutes?” Given his track record of grand, CGI-heavy productions, it will be fascinating to see how he handles a more grounded narrative.
With the UFC's global reach and Snyder's unique directorial style, this film could be an unexpected hit. What remains to be seen is how Snyder will inject his signature flair into the gritty realism of the MMA world. Could this be his most intimate and personal film since Dawn of the Dead?
As we wait for more details, including an official release date, one thing is certain: this project promises to be a major talking point among fans of both Snyder and UFC. Will this shift in style redefine Snyder's career? What do you think Adam Driver would bring to a role in the world of mixed martial arts?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!