More Conan Casting News

Casting News, News

According to Latino Review, MMA fighter Bob Sapp has been cast as Ukafu in the upcoming Conan relaunch.

The casting breakdown describes Ukafu as “in his 30s-40, very dark-skinned African or African American, massively framed at six-foot-five, gold-toothed, hardened by a lifetime of war, a leader of Kushite Tribemen from the savannahs of Kush. Ukafa is Khalar Singh’s second in command, jealous that Singh’s son, Fariq, will one day be warlord. He obeys his leader but plots the overthrow of his son. He is a mighty warrior and unbeatable in battle—until he comes face to face with Conan.”

The Pulse: Because I don’t really know Sapp, I can’t say much about him being cast in this role. Physically, he fits the casting breakdown, but I’m always a little wary when MMA fighters and wrestlers are cast in movies. That’s not to say he can’t be great, just look at Rowdy Roddy Piper or The Rock; I’m just saying that this could be hit or miss. I’m hoping for a hit, though, because I’d love to see a truly great Conan flick that sticks to Robert E. Howard’s original stories.

Those of you who’ve seen Sapp in action, what do you think? Is this a good choice, or a misstep in casting?

Conan is being produced by Lionsgate and is set to hit theaters sometime in 2011. The movie is directed by Marcus Nispel and will star Jason Momoa as Conan and Mickey Rourke as Corin.

Credit: Superhero Hype