For most people, it’s a good day when Idris Elba is shirtless. It’s an even better day when he’s sweaty and shirtless, and for the past year the Academy-Award nominated actor has been sweaty and shirtless as he trained to become a professional kickboxer.
The 43-year-old announced in a press release Tuesday (August 23) that he’s physically preparing himself to go in the ring with someone who will most likely try and kick him in the face repeatedly.
“It has been a lifelong ambition of mine to fight professionally,” the “Beast of No Nation” actor said. “Entering the ring to further test myself as a human being is a challenge I have been looking to take on for quite some time.”
The actor’s year long journey to top kickboxing shape will be documented in a three-part series entitled “Idris Elba: Fighter.” Fans will see Elba train in Britain, Cuba, Japan, South Africa and Thailand. The press release also stated Elba trained recreationally while in his 20s, but this fight will be his first.
Two weeks left. For my Chuuus.
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This is no act. Elba–despite working with retired world champions–could very well suffer real consequences. Or he could go in the ring a whoop some a**! We’re hoping for the later.