Although Michael Bisping has spent time with some of the biggest names in both the martial arts and film scenes, only one man has ever left him as a star.
The mixed martial arts icon has used his palpable charisma to effortlessly move from the cage to the big screen.
Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
Michael Bisping was impressed when he met Wesley Snipes
In 2025, fans know Michael Bisping for winning the UFC title and starring in major films, but at heart he is still the same working-class man from the northwest of England that he has always been.
His rise to fame is a tribute to his fighting heart, giving everything in his being to become a world champion – a goal he achieved and consequently inspired others to pursue themselves.
During his time as a professional athlete, Bisping was known for his larger-than-life personality, which has played a major role in his acting career, with “The Count” starring in hits like XXX: Return of Xander Cage and both Den of Thieves films.
But whether it's on a film set or broadcasting for the UFC, Bisping is never surprised by the big names he comes into contact with.
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But back in the day, when he first burst onto the scene, the Englishman came across Wesley Snipes and couldn't quite believe that the actor, famous for starring in the Blade franchise, recognized him.
In an exclusive interview with Bloody Elbow, Bisping reminisced: “I remember coming out of Clitheroe for the first time and meeting Wesley Snipes. Then I was a star. But I had never met a celebrity before.
“Now I'm kind of used to it, and I know that sounds like, 'Ooh, he's changed.' I haven't changed, but you adapt a bit to your environment.
“I remember the first event the UFC flew me to, I had just come off The Ultimate Fighter. I get a tap on the shoulder, I look around and it's Wesley Snipes.
“He says, 'How are you, champ?' I'm like, 'Do you know who I am?' He says, 'Yes, of course. I watch you all the time on The Ultimate Fighter'.
“I acted like an idiot; I thought, 'I'm such a big fan.' He says, 'Get away from this nerd'.”
Michael Bisping Reveals What It Was Really Like Working With Gerard Butler on Den of Thieves 2: Pantera
Blessed with many talents, Bisping has taken the acting world by storm, with his most recent performance in Den of Thieves 2: Pantera.
The former world champion will play alongside some of the best in the business, including the legendary Gerard Butler.
He has now discussed what it was like performing alongside such an industry titan, opening up about their interactions behind the scenes.
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