What challenges did Zhang Weili face when transitioning from fighting to acting? How did her personal background influence her approach to the role in the drama series? What aspects of her character in "After Typhoon" resonated with her own experiences? How did her training as a fighter help or hinder her preparations for acting? In what ways does she see her new role as an opportunity to inspire others?
China’s Zhang Weili has made a habit of defying the odds. The current Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) mixed martial arts star fought her way out of a hardscrabble life in the northern Chinese mining center of Handan to win the women’s strawweight division world title, then she lost it, and then she fought her way back to the top by winning it once again.
Along the way, the 35-year-old has become an icon in her homeland and beyond, with millions of fans drawn to her all-action style in the MMA cage, lucrative commercial deals with the likes of Estée Lauder, and the wealth that comes with a world championship, and – in total, across two stints as champion – four title defences.
China’s streaming giant iQiYi has been quick to sense an opportunity, and Wednesday news from the sidelines of the Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) is that a drama series charting Zhang’s life and times has just been green-lit and is soon to go into production.
There’s a buzz, also, about a new career move for Zhang – acting – and about her role in the Yu Li-directed drama After Typhoon, in which she makes her acting debut. It started screening on Monday to kick off the program at the BJIFF 32nd Beijing College Student Film Festival, one of the many sidebars used by the Beijing International Film Festival to spread films into the wider reaches of the Chinese capital’s community. The fest’s 15th edition runs through April 26.
The film is backed by Bad Rabbit Pictures and also features in small roles its founder Yao Chen (Send Me to the Clouds) along with another acclaimed Chinese star in Angelica Lee Sinje (The Eye). Zhang plays Ah Xi, a woman with a tragic past whose life is turned upside down after she meets a young stranger on a storm-threatened island.
The surprise for many has been that After Typhoon is not an action flick, but more an emotive art-house drama.
THR caught up with Zhang during a break in her busy daily training schedule, finding out how she relished the opportunity to take on the fresh challenge of acting and becoming someone “who is not Zhang Weili.”
Can we talk a little first about how your acting career came about?
Two years ago, the director [Yu Li] came to us and said he wanted to work with me. I was surprised at first, and I read the script but that movie never came about. But I did get to know the director, so I guess that started him thinking about other possibilities.
What attracted you to this character?
It’s funny, you know, because my coach [Cai Xuejun] passed the script on to me and he told me I would be playing the other lead character. So when I first read the script, I didn’t really think this was someone I could play. I just didn’t feel a connection at all. But when the director pointed out I would actually be playing Ah Xi, I was immediately interested. The role is so more suitable for me. She is a very powerful woman, and she also has the power to help people, even to help heal them, and these aspects of the character were very appealing to me.
Had you ever seriously thought about acting before?
Not at all. Never. It happened all of a sudden, and because it happened all of a sudden, I was initially against it. Especially because this isn’t a fight film, it’s not action. It’s a very emotional film, and I wasn’t really sure to start with how that might affect me. I am comfortable fighting – that is my world. But digging into drama, into emotions, is so very different from what I usually do. But the more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea of taking on this challenge.
What was the most difficult thing about the experience?
In the beginning, the biggest challenge was the psychological one of trying to forget that I am Zhang Weili. I had to forget about her, which is actually a hard thing to do for the first time. But the more I thought about it, the more I thought about how it should be natural, because everyone has different versions of themselves in their heart. There’s the gentle version, there’s the fierce one, there’s the dark one, there’s the strong one, the fragile one. There are many sides to everyone. So once I thought a lot about that, I realized I just had to find that side of me – the one that fit this character – and I had to become that person. Once I realized that, I found I was thinking and acting like the character, not like Zhang Weili anymore.
Was there anyone specific to whom you turned to for advice about acting?
My coach [Cai Xuejun] actually used to be a commercial director. So when I was training for my fight at UFC 300 fight [eventually a successful title defense against fellow Chinese fighter Yan Xiaonan in April 2024], we would often talk about the script and the character. We would talk about the character’s heart, her mind, why she might be doing what she does. Later, I spent a lot of time talking with director Li Yu about motivation, about getting to the heart of her. So, I think I came in well prepared.
Was it a welcome distraction or did it hinder your preparations for that fight?
I think it was actually very helpful in terms of helping me to relax. Usually, before a fight, we’re always only talking about the tactical stuff, about the fight itself, but we could actually have a discussion about the script, and forget for a little while about everything else. It was a very interesting thing to do.
And how did you feel when you first saw yourself up there on the big screen?
Oh, it feels very different, you know. So different from seeing myself fight. It’s hard to explain. But the truth is I was able to quickly even forget it was me – which I suppose is a good sign!
Have movies played a big part in your life?
Well, of course, I have always loved action movies. Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Donnie Yen. I think everybody grows up loving those movies, and the fact that they are so great at martial arts simply made them mean more to me. My focus is back on training now, but who’s to say what will happen in the future?! I think if a good role came along, whether it’s action or drama, I think now I’d take it.
You’ve talked often about being a role model. How might that affect your acting choices in the future?
I really think there should be more positive roles for women, and my focus would be on finding those sorts of roles. The truth is that movies have a big impact on society, so if I can play good, positive characters, that would be a great help. But, overall, I have never really thought that much about my fame. It certainly hasn’t changed me or influenced me. I am the same person I have always been. I just do everything step by step, and I think that’s a good lesson for everyone. Take everything step by step, and anything can happen – just like me being in this movie.
How Chinese UFC Star Zhang Weili Is Taking on a New Challenge: Acting
Zhang Weili, a name synonymous with excellence in mixed martial arts, has recently decided to embrace a new and exciting challenge: acting. The former UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion has not only dominated the octagon with her exceptional skills and relentless work ethic but has now set her sights on the entertainment industry. This transition marks a significant shift in her career and showcases her versatility as an athlete and public figure.
Zhang Weili first captured the world’s attention when she clinched the UFC Women’s Strawweight title in 2019, becoming the first Chinese fighter to win a championship in the organization. Recognized for her striking prowess, grappling ability, and captivating fight style, she quickly became a beloved figure in the UFC community. However, her journey transcends the boundaries of the MMA cage; Zhang has always expressed a passion for connecting with people, making her foray into acting a natural extension of her personality.
The world of martial arts and acting inevitably overlaps; many martial artists have successfully made the jump to Hollywood. Icons like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li have paved the way for their successors in blending physical charisma with captivating storytelling. Zhang Weili’s entry into acting could signal a similar trajectory, potentially inspiring her fans and fellow martial artists to explore opportunities beyond their primary disciplines.
Zhang’s transition into acting is no mere publicity stunt. She has dedicated herself to honing her craft, taking acting classes to refine her skills in front of the camera. This commitment showcases her determination to succeed, similar to how she approached her MMA career. Just as she trained rigorously before entering the octagon, she has committed to the rigorous demands of acting, understanding that talent alone does not secure success in a new field.
Her decision to act is also reflective of broader trends in the entertainment industry, where athletes are increasingly celebrated for their screen presence. Social media has amplified the visibility of celebrities, making it partially a performance art itself. Zhang Weili has a substantial following on platforms like Instagram and Weibo, where she shares glimpses of her life, training, and, now, her budding acting career. This online presence not only bolsters her public persona but also serves as a powerful tool to reach out to her fanbase while exploring new endeavors.
The decision to step into acting may also stem from Zhang’s desire to impact culture. As the first Chinese woman to become a UFC champion, she has already broken barriers, and she seems intent on continuing that journey. By acting, she has the opportunity to influence perceptions of athletes, particularly women in sports, both in China and around the globe. By portraying strong, multidimensional characters, Zhang can contribute to the narrative that champions female strength and resilience, challenging stereotypes and inspiring countless young athletes and aspiring actresses.
Her first acting role—a cameo in a popular Chinese television drama—was well-received, generating buzz not only for her performance but for the influence of sports figures in contemporary narratives. Critics and fans lauded her ability to embody a character, seamlessly transitioning from fierce UFC contender to on-screen personality. This debut was significant because it offered her a platform to highlight her cultural background and promote the values she embodies as an athlete.
As she delves deeper into the acting world, Zhang will likely face challenges and criticisms. Actor portrayals often invite fans to scrutinize every move, especially for those who come from a different profession. However, her resilience—honed in the octagon during countless grueling bouts—will undoubtedly serve her well in this new venture. Zhang has demonstrated time and again that she can rise to the occasion, and her tenacity will be crucial in overcoming any obstacles associated with her acting career.
Zhang Weili’s shift from mixed martial artist to actress mirrors a broader trend seen in the world of sports and entertainment, highlighting an emerging narrative that celebrates the multifaceted talents of athletes. The world is witnessing a remarkable transformation as figures like Zhang blur the lines between athleticism and artistry. As she embarks on this new journey, her fans will undoubtedly rally behind her, eager to see how she will conquer yet another arena.
In conclusion, Zhang Weili’s venture into acting is not just a personal ambition; it represents a broader cultural shift where female athletes are becoming icons that transcend their sports. Her journey reflects a commitment to growth, resilience, and inspiring future generations, proving that true champions can excel in any arena they choose to enter. As the UFC star continues to carve out her niche in the entertainment world, one can only look forward to the compelling stories she will tell on-screen, carrying with her the spirit of a champion.
Zhang Weili, the renowned Chinese UFC star, is stepping into a new arena—acting. Known for her extraordinary skills in the octagon as a strawweight champion, Zhang is expanding her horizons by exploring opportunities in film and television. This transition highlights her versatility and ambition beyond mixed martial arts.
Her involvement in acting showcases her desire to connect with a broader audience and perhaps share her inspiring journey as an athlete. Zhang’s dedication to her craft has already made her a role model for many, and this new challenge could further amplify her influence both in China and globally.
With her compelling narrative as a fighter overcoming obstacles, Zhang has the potential to captivate audiences on-screen, much like she does in the ring. Transitioning from sports to acting often involves a steep learning curve, but her athletic discipline and determination may serve her well in this pursuit.
As she embarks on this new path, fans and followers are eager to see how Zhang will combine her passion for martial arts with her new acting endeavors, potentially bringing a unique blend of authenticity and intensity to her performances.