Suniel Shetty began learning martial arts by watching videos of American stars. He was keen to get the kicks and punches right, considering the number of action films he did earlier in his career. Now, Shetty has come a full circle. He has been appointed the honorary patron of the Mixed Martial Arts India. In his new role, he will aim to make the sport popular in the country. “I am thrilled as the association is affiliated to the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation,” says Shetty.

These days, Suniel Shetty is binge-watching Rust Valley Restorers, admittedly enamoured by the Netflix offering. Soon, he will be on the other side of the table - the actor is poised to foray into digital entertainment, and has greenlit two projects. Buzz in the trade indicates that the two series, in keeping with Shetty's macho image, will be stylised actioners. "He will headline a cop-underworld saga that is high on stunts; the other show is a thriller drama. The projects, apparently lined up for Disney+Hotstar and Netflix, are expected to go on floors soon," says a trade source.