For two decades, Scott Adkins has built a reputation as one of the most recognizable names in modern martial arts cinema. From his breakthrough as Yuri Boyka in Undisputed II: Last Man Standing in 2006 to a long list of action roles, Adkins has established a career defined by physical performances, martial arts expertise and a deep connection with action filmmaking.

Now, 20 years after first stepping into the role that made Boyka an iconic character among action fans, Adkins is taking on a new challenge: directing his first feature film.

Titled Brawler, the upcoming action thriller marks Adkins’ directorial debut. He also stars in the film as Warren James, a former MMA champion whose troubled past draws him into a dangerous criminal underworld. Lewis Tan, Larry Lamb and Emily Bennett are also part of the cast, while Matt Venne wrote the screenplay.

The project represents a significant new step for Adkins, who has spent years working both in front of and behind the scenes of action productions. In a 2026 interview, he explained that directing had always been something he wanted to pursue, having made short films with friends when he was younger.

Filming on Brawler has now wrapped, with the production moving into post-production.

From the intense fighting style of Yuri Boyka to taking responsibility for an entire film from behind the camera, Adkins’ journey continues to evolve. Brawler offers him the opportunity to bring his experience as an action performer into a completely new role—and potentially begin another chapter in his career as a filmmaker.