New MMA movie to feature Star Wars star as nurse-turned Bellator fighter

Another mixed martial arts (MMA) movie is on the way.

After The Smashing Machine (read our review)— starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson — crashed and burned at the box office, Hollywood is stepping back into the cage with another fight film. This time, the story will focus on Bryony Tyrell, a one-fight Bellator and Cage Warriors veteran whose unlikely journey from nurse to professional fighter is set to hit the big screen.

According to Deadline, the movie will be titled Killa Bee, with Star Wars superstar Daisy Ridley cast in the lead role as Tyrell. The film will be written by Ruth Sewell, directed by Kenton Oxley, and produced by Knockout Productions in association with Picture Perfect and Moviehouse Entertainment.

The biopic will tell the story of Tyrell — “a mother of two with a master’s degree in nursing and a degree in molecular biology who worked in the ICU by day, navigating the challenges of the NHS, and at night transformed into one of Britain’s leading cage fighting prospects.”

Producer Ruth Sewell explained how closely the film is being developed with Tyrell herself:

“Bryony Tyrell has been involved in the project with Kenton Oxley since the beginning and is supportive of her inspirational story being brought to the screen,” the producers stated. “She is actively consulting on the project. The scripting process has been shaped in close dialogue with Bryony’s family, ensuring emotional truth and creative integrity at every turn. Director Kenton, a longtime friend of Bryony’s since their school days, brings a deeply personal lens to the story — one rooted in trust, history, and fierce creative loyalty.”

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Ridley also shared her excitement about taking on the role:

“Bryony’s story is one of extraordinary courage and resilience,” Ridley said. “I was deeply moved by her emotional and empowering journey. I can’t wait to bring her spirit to the screen.”

Tyrell began her professional MMA career with a perfect 3-0 record before finishing 4-6-1 overall. She made a one-fight appearance in Bellator, losing to future title challenger Denise Kielholtz. She also faced UFC fan favorite Molly McCann in Cage Warriors back in 2018, suffering a second-round knockout loss.