It may be somewhat easy to play a tough guy on screen, but to actually be one in real life — well — that is of course another story entirely. Badass actor Idris Elba is out to prove he can do both, however, with his new series Idris Elba: Fighter.

Elba has challenged himself with becoming a professional kickboxer in just 12 months, having no prior professional experience in the sport. The Emmy Award-nominated actor will, however, be conditioned by some of the best trainers and coaches in the world, leading up to a fight with a professional competitor.

The non-scripted series was shot in locations throughout Great Britain, Cuba, Japan, South Africa and Thailand, showcasing Elba's preparation for the big battle.

Elba isn't going into this a complete novice, though. Throughout his twenties, Idris trained in kickboxing for personal fitness.

Idris Elba: Fighter premieres on January 17 on Discovery UK.