Callina Liang Ignites the Internet in Fiery Red as ‘Street Fighter’ Countdown Begins
Chun-Li’s iconic kicks have been challenging opponents since 1991, and now Callina Liang is poised to carry that legacy into the live-action realm. As the release of the new ‘Street Fighter’ movie approaches, Liang’s promotional appearances have turned into events that fans eagerly anticipate. Each new photo call sends the internet buzzing as they analyze her stunning looks.
Liang secured her role in June 2025, following standout performances in Steven Soderbergh’s ‘Presence’ and J.C. Lee’s ‘Bad Genius.’ This marks her debut in action filmmaking. Directed by Kitao Sakurai, who took over from the original filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, the film is set in 1993, where estranged fighters Ryu and Ken Masters are recruited by Chun-Li for the World Warrior Tournament.
Callina Liang stuns for ‘STREET FIGHTER’ press. 📷 pic.twitter.com/zoin00j4O7
— Cinethology (@thecinethology) October 2, 2026
The latest images surfaced on October 2, showcasing Liang in a glossy red satin top with a scarf-style collar and delicate chains draped across her chest. Her hair is slicked back, and her radiant skin shines against a backdrop of elegant balconied buildings.
This is just one of her many memorable press looks. In April, shortly after the trailer’s release, Liang donned a sleek black crop top paired with a grey blazer, matching trousers, and a black leather belt. She later attended a press event in Los Angeles, posing next to a full display of Chun-Li’s signature blue costume.
The cast has also been active this week, with Liang joining Noah Centineo, Jason Momoa, Andrew Koji, and Olivier Richters at a ‘Street Fighter’ photocall in London on October 1.
Liang’s polished press appearances come alongside a rigorous training schedule. She has been training for about two hours daily in Taekwondo, Muay Thai, and Wushu, consuming 12 eggs a day to build muscle. By the end of filming, she noted that her thighs increased by approximately 6.5 centimeters.
In preparation for her role, Liang studied Chun-Li as if she were a gamer. She downloaded every version of ‘Street Fighter’ on her PS5 and recorded Chun-Li’s moves in slow motion on her phone for analysis. Sakurai humorously mentioned at a recent Q&A that her stunt double required butt pads just to keep up with Liang’s physique on set.
The role holds personal significance for Liang. Growing up in Beijing, she often played ‘Street Fighter’ at an arcade near her home, where her grandmother would take her after school or ballet class. She has fond memories of always choosing Chun-Li and still cherishes the character’s victory pose.
PERFECT! Watch the New Trailer for Street Fighter, hitting theaters everywhere October 16. pic.twitter.com/jAAPf1k9jf
— Street Fighter Movie (@Street_Fighter) September 1, 2026
New set photos reveal Liang in Chun-Li’s classic blue costume, complete with hair buns and spiked wrist cuffs. A recent teaser also showcases iconic moves from the game, including the Shoryuken and the 100 Lightning Kicks, with fans meticulously analyzing every frame for accuracy.
‘Street Fighter’ is set to hit U.S. theaters on October 16, released by Paramount, marking the first film under Legendary’s new distribution agreement with the studio. This adaptation is the third live-action take on the Capcom franchise, following the 1994 film and ‘Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li’ from 2009.
The ensemble cast surrounding Liang is impressive. Momoa portrays Blanka, Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson takes on Balrog, Cody Rhodes plays Guile, Roman Reigns is Akuma, and David Dastmalchian portrays M. Bison. The casting decisions have received mixed reactions from fans, making each promotional appearance crucial.
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