Actor Nails Chris Eubank Look in Michael Watson Biopic
The first official images from The Force: The Michael Watson Story have been released, giving fans a stunning first look at Michael Gukas channeling British two-weight world champion Chris Eubank Sr.
The stills, captured by Jordan Smith (@jordan_smith_photos on IG), show Gukas embodying Eubank’s style and presence with remarkable authenticity—principal photography wrapped last week under the direction of actor and filmmaker Sean Cronin.
About the Michael Watson Movie
The Force: The Michael Watson Story is a powerful, emotionally charged feature inspired by the real-life events that shook British boxing. The film charts Michael Watson‘s rise from being a domestic champion to his near-fatal 1991 clash with Chris Eubank Sr., his miraculous recovery, and his ongoing work as a motivational speaker and advocate.
The biopic stars Victor Hugo as Watson, with Joyce Grey-Carter as Joan Watson, Nick Moran – known for Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels – playing Barry Hearn, former boxer Nick Blackwell in a supporting role, and Michael Gukas as Chris Eubank.
Matthew Bazell pens the screenplay, and Cronin directs, delivering a ringside-true story that fans will be talking about for months.
Chris Eubank Sr. & Michael Watson Legacy
Chris Eubank Sr., a retired two-weight world champion, held the WBO middleweight and super-middleweight titles from 1990 to 1995. Known for his eccentric personality and legendary rivalry with Nigel Benn, Eubank remains one of Britain’s most famous fighters. His son, Chris Eubank Jr., continues the family legacy in the professional ring.
Watson, after a life-changing brain injury in his 1991 fight with Eubank, became a symbol of resilience in British sport. Following months in a coma and grueling rehabilitation, Watson regained movement, speech, and writing abilities.
He has since raised substantial funds for charity, including completing the London Marathon, and continues to inspire as a motivational speaker and patron of The Dream Factory.
Credits & Photographs
Jordan Smith photographed all official stills, which are viewable on his official website. Principal photography was completed at Longcross Studios, directed by Sean Cronin, starring Michael Gukas as Chris Eubank.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years’ experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.
