The long-awaited sequel to the 2002 blockbuster xXx almost had a very different UFC superstar appearing alongside Vin Diesel.
UFC featherweight champion Conor McGregor was reportedly set to make his big screen debut in the the upcoming film xXx: The Return of Xander Cage before it was announced that middleweight contender Michael Bisping had been given the part.
Bisping has featured in on-screen projects in the past and before he takes to the Octagon for his first UFC title fight, he spoke about the rumours that he took McGregor’s role out from under him and, while dispelling them, ‘The Count’ also took the chance to pump up his acting chops in comparison to his Irish counterpart.
“I didn’t replace Conor on the set. Conor didn’t want the part, he was busy doing something else so they re-wrote the part, they held auditions and what can I say, I smashed it,” Bisping told TMZ.
“I’m an actor, simple as that, he’s not an actor. He hasn’t acted yet. Check out my resume, I’ve done about 10 movies so you make your own assumptions.”
Bisping was actually shooting for the movie when he received the call to replace the injured Chris Weidman in the main event of UFC 199, where he will meet Luke Rockhold for the 185 lb title on just two weeks notice.
But the confidence of the Manchester middleweight is not hindered by the short notice aspect of the fight and he’s backing himself for glory come Saturday night in California.
“I’m coming off a movie set,” Bisping added. “I’ve just finished xXx. On two weeks notice I’m going to whoop his ass and take his belt. I feel sorry for the guy.”
