Shara Magomedov believes the UFC’s blockbuster new broadcast deal could open the door to a career far beyond the octagon — and he’s setting his sights firmly on Hollywood.
Earlier this week, UFC CEO Dana White announced that the promotion had secured a monumental $7.7 billion agreement with Paramount and CBS to broadcast UFC events in the United States for the next decade. The 10-year deal, worth an eye-watering $1.1 billion annually, is set to transform the promotion’s media reach and, according to White, will also boost fighter pay.
While the news sparked widespread discussion in the MMA community about how much of that revenue would trickle down to athletes, Magomedov’s mind immediately jumped to another kind of opportunity — one that could see him trading gloves for a movie script.
From the Cage to the Camera
Magomedov, nicknamed “Bullet,” recently got a taste of the entertainment industry when he filmed scenes for a short movie in Los Angeles earlier this year. Playing the role of an assassin, the 31-year-old UFC middleweight experienced first-hand what it’s like to work on a Hollywood set.
Although the title of the project remains under wraps, Magomedov clearly enjoyed the creative challenge and now hopes that the UFC’s collaboration with Paramount could help him land more acting roles in the future.
“I think as soon as Paramount and the UFC work together on a movie, I might be the first on their casting list,” Magomedov told Red Corner MMA.
“I know there are many interesting characters who have took part in movies. Like, Michael Bisping, Randy Couture. I know a lot of UFC fighters who already did, but I am going to be their main pirate. So, let’s f—ing go. Thanks to Dana White and the whole of the UFC, I believe we are on the edge of global warming [laughs].
“As far as I know, Paramount is a big company, and they do amazing movies. I think this collaboration may lead to some very interesting movies, with us taking part there. Common fighters may become superheroes.”
Magomedov already has experience in a more fantastical role, revealing that he once portrayed a superhero who could transform into an iguana. His willingness to embrace unique and unconventional characters could make him a natural fit for action and fantasy productions.
“I played a role in a Hollywood movie as a superhero who transformed from a human into an iguana,” he said. “So I think there will be lots of movies. It’s up to the screenwriters and all those who make movies.”
The Russian fighter even suggested that Dana White himself might get directly involved in the creative process.
“I think Dana White will take part in it himself and do something. He may be an investor if he likes any particular plot based on a book or a saga. I think he will make things happen in this respect, too. He’s got lots of ideas and projects on his mind. So we can make it far together.”
Paramount Partnership Could Boost Fighter Profiles
If the UFC–Paramount partnership delivers on its potential, fighters like Magomedov could see a surge in mainstream recognition. Paramount, known for producing blockbuster hits across genres, could integrate UFC personalities into their films and TV projects, giving athletes a platform that extends beyond sports audiences.
This type of crossover is not new. Former UFC champions such as Michael Bisping, Randy Couture, and Ronda Rousey have all made successful transitions into acting. For Magomedov, this deal might just be the catalyst he needs to follow in their footsteps.
Recovery from a Brutal Injury
Magomedov’s Hollywood ambitions come at a time when he’s recovering from a painful injury sustained in his most recent fight.
In July, during UFC Abu Dhabi, the Russian fan favorite outpointed Marc-Andre Barriault but paid a steep price in the process. A vicious shot left him with a gruesome broken nose, forcing him to undergo surgery just hours after the fight.
“It’s been a long time since this fight happened, and I only started breathing through my nose and blowing it yesterday,” Magomedov shared. “I couldn’t breathe or blow my nose for two weeks. I could only breathe through my mouth since he hit me, up until yesterday.”
While the injury is healing, it’s clear that Magomedov is still some distance away from being ready for another octagon appearance. In the meantime, he can focus on exploring creative opportunities — and perhaps work on building his portfolio for a future in film.
A Fighter with Big Dreams
Magomedov’s larger-than-life personality, distinctive style, and willingness to embrace challenges make him a prime candidate for crossover stardom. Whether playing a menacing assassin, a swashbuckling pirate, or a shape-shifting superhero, the middleweight contender is ready to take his shot at the big screen.
And with the UFC’s landmark deal set to bring fighters into millions of American homes over the next decade, Magomedov may be stepping into his biggest role yet — both inside and outside the cage.
