KiKi Layne Reveals Intense Boxing Training For ‘The Old Guard 2’
Actress steps up her physical preparation for more action-packed role in Netflix's anticipated sequel.
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KiKi Layne is throwing punches and getting ready for battle as she prepares to reprise her role as Nile in the highly anticipated sequel, “The Old Guard 2.” The actress recently shared a glimpse into her intense physical preparation for the film, highlighting how boxing has become a crucial part of her training regimen.
In a post, Layne can be seen engaged in focused boxing training, showcasing her improved technique and dedication to the physically demanding role. The actress is shown working with what appears to be a professional trainer, executing precise punches while maintaining proper form.
Boxing Returns For The Sequel
“Boxing was a big part of my prep on the first #TheOldGuardMovie, so we brought it back to help me prepare for the sequel,” Layne wrote in her caption. She emphasized that her character faces more physical challenges this time around, adding, “The second film was a lot more physical for Nile, so I had to step it up.”
The training footage reveals Layne’s commitment to authentically portraying her character, an immortal warrior who must be convincing in combat scenes. Her boxing skills appear refined and purposeful, suggesting fans can expect more dynamic action sequences in the upcoming film.
The Old Guard Returns After Four Years
“The Old Guard 2” is set to premiere on Netflix on July 2, nearly four years after the original film debuted on the streaming platform in July 2020. Layne’s excitement for the release is evident as she concludes her post with enthusiasm: “Can’t wait to FINALLY share this movie with y’all on July 2!!!!!”
According to recent promotional materials from Netflix, the sequel will continue the story of Andy (Charlize Theron) and her team of immortal mercenaries. With Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts) still in exile after his betrayal in the first film, and Quynh (Ngô Thanh Vân) seeking revenge after escaping her underwater prison, Andy must navigate her newfound mortality as a new threat emerges.
Netflix’s official synopsis reveals that this new threat has been “thousands of years in the making,” suggesting an even higher-stakes scenario for Layne’s character, Nile, and the rest of the team.
Kiki Layne: From Breakthrough To Action Star
For Layne, who first gained widespread recognition for her breakout role in Barry Jenkins’ “If Beale Street Could Talk” (2018), the physically demanding role of Nile Freeman in “The Old Guard” franchise represents a significant evolution in her career.
Born on December 10, 1991, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Layne studied acting at DePaul University before making her way to Hollywood. Her portrayal of Nile—a former U.S. Marine who discovers her immortality after surviving a fatal wound—in the first film showcased her ability to balance emotional depth with action sequences.
The actress has been open about her passion for storytelling throughout her career. In a recent Instagram post, she shared, “I’ve wanted to act and sing for as long as I can remember. At just seven years old, I began training at a performing arts school, and from the very beginning, acting became my greatest source of freedom and joy. My dream is to keep telling meaningful stories across all genres and to inspire young Black girls and emerging artists around the world.”
What To Expect In The Old Guard 2
Based on the graphic novel series by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández, the first “Old Guard” film was praised for its fresh take on the immortal warrior concept and its compelling action sequences. Director Gina Prince-Bythewood crafted a story that balanced supernatural elements with grounded character development.
For the sequel, fans can expect to see Layne’s character, Nile, with more developed fighting skills and a deeper integration into the team of immortals. Her boxing training suggests that hand-to-hand combat will feature prominently in her action scenes.
The sequel also reunites Layne with co-stars Charlize Theron, Matthias Schoenaerts, Marwan Kenzari, Luca Marinelli, and Ngô Thanh Vân. New additions to the cast include Uma Thurman and Henry Golding in yet-to-be-revealed roles.
As July 2 approaches, Layne’s training video offers fans an exciting preview of what promises to be an action-packed return to the world of “The Old Guard.” If her preparation is any indication, Nile will be stepping up as a formidable warrior in her own right when the sequel premieres on Netflix.
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