Joe Taslim Returns as Noob Saibot in Mortal Kombat 2

TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Indonesian martial artist and actor Joe Taslim is set to reprise his role in the highly anticipated sequel Mortal Kombat 2, stepping into the iconic shoes of Noob Saibot — the dark alter ego of the fallen Bi-Han.

Born in Palembang in 1981, Taslim is a former national judo champion who has seamlessly transitioned into Hollywood. The 44 year old guy has some memorable roles in The Raid, Fast & Furious 6, Star Trek Beyond, and the 2021 Mortal Kombat reboot

From Bi-Han to Noob Saibot

In the original Mortal Kombat (2021), Taslim brought the Lin Kuei assassin Bi-Han, also known as Sub‑Zero, to life with his striking presence and formidable martial arts choreography.

That film famously ends with Bi-Han’s death at the hands of Scorpion, followed by his spiritual evolution into the shadow-wielding specter Noob Saibot.

In Mortal Kombat 2 (set for release in October 2025), Taslim returns to portray this transformed character. As Noob Saibot, he will embody the darker, more enigmatic side of Bi-Han, embracing a more sinister and shadowy aesthetic.

Darker Tone, Sharper Edge

Early promotional material including the first official poster casts Noob Saibot in deep shadows with piercing eyes, emphasizing a darker and more mysterious tone compared to its predecessor.

The sequel promises to heighten the stakes in the legendary Earthrealm vs. Outworld conflict, and Taslim’s return as Noob Saibot adds intensity and gravitas to the narrative.

Stellar Supporting Cast & Direction

Joining Taslim are returning cast members like Karl Urban, alongside newcomers such as Tati Gabrielle, Adeline Rudolph, and Tadanobu Asano. Australian director Simon McQuoid also returns to steer the film, continuing his vision of blending brutal action with supernatural elements.

Why Taslim’s Return Matters

Martial arts prowess & acclaim: Taslim’s performance in the first film was widely praised for its skillful choreography and commanding screen presence.

Character continuity: Transitioning from Bi-Han to Noob Saibot shows narrative depth and provides Taslim greater scope to explore the character's darker transformation.

Elevated tone: The sequel signals a shift toward a more mature, brooding atmosphere — one that Noob Saibot inherently embodies.

Joe Taslim’s return to the Mortal Kombat franchise as Noob Saibot promises to deepen the mythos of the series with his fierce physicality, nuanced performance, and an aura of malevolence befitting the character.

With a compelling blend of martial arts action and dark storytelling, Mortal Kombat 2 looks poised to expand both the lore and cinematic impact of the franchise. (*)