Looks like Batfleck’s been inspired by a “Notorious” Irishman.

In the modern world of comic book movies audiences are constantly looking for authenticity (which makes no sense seeing as how they’re all based on fictional material of individuals with superpowers). Viewers are always interested in seeing comic book characters brought to life in a way that feels fluid and realistic. Gone are the days of Adam West’s Batman where camp and flamboyance ruled the day. Instead we have grounded characters who hope to be relatable to the average Joe. By this point you may be wondering what comic book movies have to do with mixed martial arts. Well it seems that the sport known for it’s visceral combat and enigmatic personalities has been quite the influence on the star of the upcoming film Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Ben Affleck, who plays the Dark Knight in director’s Zack Snyder’s iteration of the character, has gone on record saying that MMA was a major influence on how Batman’s fighting style is portrayed in the film. It’s rough, it’s ugly, like a brawl. It’s less about fancy choreographed movements and more about brutally taking down opponents in devastating fashion. In the video below Affleck explains just how much influence a certain Irishman had on his take of Batman. “He’s a little bit more of a brawler,” Affleck told Reuters. “You kind of get a feeling, like, physical, visceral slugger-thing. The fights are more, like, smash-mouth, kind of UFC-influenced, like, Conor McGregor style.” It’s no secret that celebrities are fans of MMA, the UFC in particular, and it’s cool to see that as the sport grows so too does his influence. The Conor McGregor comparison may not be all that accurate however. McGregor is at times a bit of a boxer brawler, particularly in his last outing against Nate Diaz, but there’s certainly a great amount of finesse in his striking skills. From the clips from the movie that have been on full display for the past month, this Batman seems more akin to a Quentin “Rampage” Jackson than a Conor McGregor, but I guess only time, and a thorough viewing of the film, will tell whether that comparison is accurate or simply hyperbole. Are you going to be watching Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice this weekend? Follow Generation Iron MMA on Facebook and Twitter. Also, be sure to share, like, and comment to show your support.

Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.