“This isn’t AI, I really am egotistical enough to do this”: Sacha Baron Cohen shows off ripped transformation

Sacha Baron Cohen is no stranger to full-on commitment whether it’s diving headfirst into controversial comedy or disappearing into eccentric characters like Borat, Ali G, or Bruno. But this time, his latest transformation isn’t for laughs. It’s serious, shredded, and all over the cover of Men’s Fitness UK. And no, it’s not AI-generated. It’s all him.

“This isn’t AI, I really am egotistical enough to do this.”

Baron Cohen joked, addressing his shocking glow-up with classic self-deprecating humor.

Marvel fans were taken by surprise when Marvel boss Kevin Feige confirmed that Baron Cohen’s Mephisto is set to play a major role as the next big MCU villain. And judging by the intense physical makeover the actor has undergone, it’s safe to say he’s not just dabbling, he’s diving deep into the devilish role.

Sacha Baron Cohen’s Mephisto transformation

Cohen's usually known for comedic chaos, not six-pack abs. But this version of him? Bold, buff, and terrifyingly toned. The shift is dramatic and it's not just for the magazine cover. According to insiders, Cohen went all in, working with celebrity trainer Alfonso “The Angry Trainer” Moretti to get his physique MCU-ready.

The journey started with a very honest Zoom call. In true Hollywood fashion, Moretti asked Cohen to strip to his underwear so he could assess the starting point. His verdict? “He looked like a ruler straight up and down.” But there was potential.

Cohen wasn’t completely out of shape he’d been doing kickboxing for years when his schedule allowed. But for Mephisto, he needed more than just hobby fitness.

Sacha Baron Cohen committed to the grind. He kicked off with 100 pushups a day and stuck to a tailored, high-protein, low-sugar diet that prioritized muscle growth and definition. Even while filming, he kept up with short but brutal training sessions. The results came fast. In fact, the Mephisto costume reportedly had to be adjusted multiple times as his body continued to change.

It’s not just about vanity. Sacha Baron Cohen approached the transformation with a method actor’s mindset. For him, embodying Mephisto, a devilish character known for offering Faustian bargains and chaos required more than just makeup and VFX. He had to feel powerful. And he does.

The glow-up has stunned fans especially those used to his past comic roles. This new Sacha Baron Cohen is lean, sculpted, and menacing. Not quite the guy in the neon singlet anymore.

Mephisto, who first appeared in Silver Surfer comics, is rumored to play a huge part in Marvel’s next phase. Feige didn’t give away too much, but confirmed that Cohen’s version of the character teased in the Ironheart finale will be central in upcoming storylines.

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Reflecting on the journey, Sacha Baron Cohen joked he had “the core strength of an arthritic jellyfish” when he began. But the discipline paid off. He says anyone can do it. you just need the right guidance and a commitment to consistency.

Looks like Mephisto is here to stay. And he’s jacked.

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