Idris Elba takes on heavy weight role

(Image credit: Angel Valentin)

Golden-Globe winning actor Idris Elba, best known for Luther and many Hollywood films, has taken on a role like no other.

Not content with being an award winning actor, DJ and all round nice guy Idris has taken on his next challenge - to be a professional kick-boxer.

In the brand new series, IDRIS ELBA: FIGHTER, Elba will undertake the most physically and mentally demanding experience of his career – training to become a professional kick boxer and competing against a seasoned fighter.

Scary stuff - but it looks like Idris is no stranger to a bit of fighting, as he trained as a kick boxer throughout his 20's. However, this is his first time in the ring fighting professionally.

A photo posted by on

The actor shared this Instagram post in September, when he was filming the show - which was shot in Britain, Cuba, Japan, South Africa and Thailand.

During the one off show you'll see Idris in blood, sweat and tears training, he'll discover what it really takes to be a professional fighter and will push himself to the limit to overcome pain and fear, master specialised techniques and skills, and ensure both his body and mind are fighting fit.

With mentoring from former world champions, trainers, and coaches, Idris incorporates unorthodox training methods and fitness regimes to increase his chances in the main event.

IDRIS ELBA: FIGHTER will air on the Discovery Channel on January 17th.

Sarah Finley

Sarah is a freelance writer and regularly writes for publications including Womanandhome.com, Independent, BBC and What to Watch. She mainly writes about health, fitness, TV, and travel. Sarah loves gritty crime dramas, sitcoms, and reality shows, while she always amazes her friends at how quickly she can binge-watch the latest on-trend Netflix show.