UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has expressed interest in making his acting debut in the sequel to the viral horror hit “Talk to Me” by Australian filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, but maintains that his fighting career is always his first priority.
Israel Adesanya, the UFC middleweight champion, assures that while fighting will always be his prime focus, he won’t shy away from venturing into acting if the right opportunity arises. In recent times, Adesanya had the chance to meet Australian filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, the brains behind the viral horror hit Talk to Me. The film, which amassed a whopping $63 million at the worldwide box office, is now all set for a sequel. The script revolves around a cluster of friends who, after contacting spirits through an embalmed hand, face horrifying fallouts.
The Philippou brothers are not only successful YouTube creators with their renowned RackaRacka channel, but they are also massive fight enthusiasts. Their meeting with Adesanya was a noteworthy event for them. Michael Philippou was effusive in his praise of the encounter. He stated, “We met Izzy! He was the coolest person ever! I feel nervous talking to him because it feels like I’m interfering with history. He’s so iconic and will be remembered as a great. Interacting with him is strange, but he’s the coolest guy ever.”
Also an experienced fighter, Michael racked up a TKO win as part of the Logan Paul-KSI undercard back in 2018. Michael’s enthusiasm to interact with Adesanya was reciprocated by the UFC champion. He voiced his willingness to do an appearance in the upcoming sequel Talk 2 Me. Considering the previous film was a success, studio A24 had already greenlit a sequel. Adesanya expressed his interest in starring in the sequel, noting his admiration for the first movie which was his favorite horror film of that year. He also hinted at ongoing discussions about another film project tailored for him.
The Philippou brothers were thrilled at the idea of Adesanya featuring in their sequel. The idea of integrating Adesanya into their horror movie intrigued them, with Michael exclaiming, “I’m all for it! There’s no fear or danger if Izzy’s in the room! Imagine getting possessed by Izzy!” As exhilarating as it may seem to grab a role in a highly anticipated horror sequel, Adesanya emphasized that acting pursuits will follow his fighting career. In his words, “Fighting comes first. I’m not doing the Hollywood stuff past fighting. Even if it’s just a cameo bit, we’ll make it happen. But Talk 2 Me or whatever movie they want to do, I’m always keen.”