Photo Courtesy: Movieverse Entertainment
Movieverse Entertainment and Cologna Productions are filming a new documentary exploring the life and career of the UFC star, tv host, spokes person, mentor and action actress Michelle Waterson Gomez. Directed by Victor Migalchan, with Edward Cologna serving as Executive Producer, the project promises a groundbreaking approach to sports storytelling with its unique blend of documentary, feature film elements, and animation.
The film takes audiences inside the journey of Michelle Waterson Gomez, known worldwide as “The Karate Hottie,” chronicling her evolution from early steps in martial arts to international UFC figure and now mentor and action actress in the film industry. The project features exclusive interviews with her family members, close friends, and notable figures from the combat sports world, including UFC champion Holly Holm and renowned trainer Coach Mike Winkeljohn (Coach Wink).
The film is designed to stand apart from traditional sports documentaries. While it showcases UFC highlights and never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage, it also incorporates cinematic sequences and animation. This approach allows the filmmakers to merge the intensity of live-action sports with the creativity of visual storytelling, producing an experience that resonates with both fight fans and mainstream audiences.
“This is not just another sports documentary,” said Director Victor Migalchan. “We are building an immersive experience that captures Michelle’s strength, resilience, and transformation both inside and outside the octagon. By blending documentary with feature film and animation, we are creating something entirely new.”
Michelle Waterson Gomez has long been celebrated for her accomplishments in mixed martial arts, competing at the highest levels of the UFC while also successfully balancing her role as a mother, wife, and public figure. The documentary highlights her early influences, key UFC battles, and her growing career in action cinema. At its core, the film tells the story of perseverance, identity, and reinvention.
“Michelle’s journey reflects the kind of story that deserves a broader stage,” said Executive Producer Edward Cologna. “Her ability to balance competing identities – athlete, actress, wife, mother – while remaining grounded in her values is what makes her story so powerful. We wanted to capture that in a way that audiences around the world could connect with.”
Adding to the project’s depth are appearances by legendary figures who have shared the stage with Waterson Gomez. UFC veteran and champion Holly Holm provides a firsthand perspective on their bond and years of training together, while Coach Wink offers his insights as one of the sport’s most respected trainers. Their contributions provide viewers with insider context on what it takes to compete and thrive at the highest levels of mixed martial arts.
The project is the latest collaboration between Movieverse Entertainment and Cologna Productions, two companies known for building international projects with wide appeal. The documentary continues their tradition of blending powerful human stories with innovative formats.
“From the very beginning, this film has been about pushing boundaries,” said Director Migalchan. “We wanted to respect the authenticity of Michelle’s story while finding new ways to bring it to life for the screen.”
Producer Allison Zhang added: “This project is not only about fights and film sets – it is about the human spirit. Through her family’s voices, her friends, and her coaches, audiences will gain a rare, unfiltered look at Michelle’s life.”
With filming now complete, the documentary moves into post-production. The team is currently finalizing editing and animation sequences, with release details expected to be announced in the near future. Distribution plans have not yet been disclosed, but the producers have hinted at a release strategy that will position the film for both sports enthusiasts and general audiences.
For now, audiences can expect a cinematic experience that captures the untold story of Michelle Waterson Gomez, one that goes beyond fight highlights to reveal the personal sacrifices, family bonds, and creative ambitions that have shaped her path.
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