It's widely known that Hollywood has a penchant for reviving beloved classics. This time, fans of 1980s cinema are in for a treat with the upcoming RoadHouse remake, helmed by director Doug Liman. Judging from the initial trailer, the film appears to retain the lively spirit of the original while infusing it with the action-packed flair characteristic of Liman's work, seen in franchises like Bourne and Mr. and Mrs. Smith.
Fans have been captivated by Jake Gyllenhaal's impressive physical transformation and his ability to seamlessly transition between artistic projects and mainstream blockbusters like this. Yet, the debut clip introduces an even more noteworthy presence in former UFC lightweight and featherweight champion, Conor McGregor. Initially presumed to be a brief cameo, McGregor's casting elevates the typical portrayal of athletes in the industry. It reinforces the notion that McGregor's involvement will be more than just superficial, making for an intriguing addition to the film.
Conor McGregor's Role in Road House
Despite his controversial personal life, Conor McGregor remains the UFC's most prominent superstar, surpassing the typical image of a champion. McGregor, also a savvy entrepreneur, has been sidelined from fighting since 2021 due to a leg injury. However, his charisma and flair make him a perfect fit for the role of a charismatic villain in the RoadHouse reboot. MMA enthusiasts immediately identified McGregor's portrayal of Knox, a character he fully embodies as a formidable brawler.
Knox is dispatched to confront Jake Gyllenhaal's Dalton in the Florida Keys, acting on behalf of the nefarious businessman Ben, portrayed by Lift's Billy Magnussen. Ben aims to acquire the property where Dalton serves as a bouncer. Unbeknownst to Ben, Dalton is a former UFC middleweight fighter with a strong aversion to bullies. Knox serves as the catalyst, wreaking havoc in the bar, initiating altercations, and cautioning Dalton against getting too involved before delivering a headbutt. Subsequent scenes depict their intense brawl, featuring brutal clashes against trucks and through windows.
Knox appears to be in for some intriguing character development, including high-speed car chases through Miami and a boat pursuit that positions him as a more eccentric, James Bond-style antagonist. Regardless, McGregor's casting feels almost custom-tailored for the role, especially considering his past altercation with an elderly man at a bar. McGregor has been building anticipation for this role for months, and it's evident that his portrayal of Knox will be an electrifying one, as he seeks to dismantle Dalton both physically and mentally.