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The latest Street Fighter film, released this weekend, revisits the iconic fighting game franchise with a fresh live-action adaptation that endeavors to honor its 35-year legacy. Among the familiar faces such as Ryu, Guile, and Chun-Li, the movie introduces a lesser-known character: Joe. His presence has sparked curiosity among fans who might not immediately recognize his origins within the series.
While the film’s narrative includes eight fighters competing in the tournament, the selection diverges somewhat from the classic roster fans expect from the original Street Fighter II. Notably, characters like Chun-Li, Blanka, and E. Honda appear in the movie but do not participate in this particular bracket. Instead, the lineup features Balrog, Vega, and the enigmatic Joe, who steps into the spotlight in place of some of the more established fighters.
The Origins of Joe and His Role in the Franchise
Joe, portrayed by Alexander Volkanovski, a renowned MMA fighter and two-time UFC champion, is not a new creation for the film. His roots trace back to the original Street Fighter game released in 1987, where he appeared as one of the non-playable characters. Unlike the main roster of fighters that became household names, Joe remained a more obscure figure, making his cinematic debut a notable nod to the franchise’s deep history.
Though his role in the game was limited, the movie elevates Joe from a forgotten background character to a significant competitor in the tournament, offering fans both old and new a glimpse at a part of the franchise’s extensive lore that often goes overlooked.
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