In recent months, the situation surrounding Randy Couture's fighting future has become a bit hazy, with first his lawyer and then Couture himself indicating that he could be on his way to calling it a career. Recently, the MMA legend stated that if he had to choose between a big fight and a movie role, he'd likely pick the film work as he looks to transition into a career past professional athletics.
With cards quickly filling into the early spring of 2011, Couture has yet to be scheduled for a bout, leaving many to wonder what lies ahead. Now, we have the answer, and it's on the silver screen.
The multi-time UFC champion has just signed on for a role in the action film "Setup," alongside Bruce Willis and 50 Cent, MMA Fighting has confirmed.
Couture's work on the film will begin in December and run into early 2011. Soon after, he will transition into taping for the sequel to "The Expendables," with filming expected to begin in March.
In "Setup," Couture will play a gangster named Pete. The film is reportedly about a jewelry store heist that leads to a double-cross, with one thief going back for revenge on the partner that went rogue.
Production will largely take place in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The 47-year-old MMA legend last fought in August, when he defeated boxer-turned-mixed martial artist James Toney via first-round submission at UFC 118 in Boston. Given his schedule and commitments, it seems unlikely that a Couture return to the octagon could happen until the summer of 2011, which would mean he went nearly a full year between fights. But with interest in him increasing around Hollywood, it's just as possible that Couture will never again compete in the UFC.
Overall, he's 19-10 in his career, and was the first UFC fighter to win championships in two divisions.
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