Diablo Review: Adkins vs Zaror in Brutal Action Showdown

Diablo is the kind of action movie that hits the ground running—literally—and never lets up. Scott Adkins once again proves why he’s one of the reigning kings of modern martial arts cinema. He steps into the role of Kris Chaney, an ex-con with a mission that’s both personal and dangerous: honor a dying promise by rescuing a young girl from a life of crime, even if it means going head-to-head with a Colombian cartel and its deadliest weapon—El Corvo, played by the unstoppable Marko Zaror.

Adkins and Zaror reuniting since Undisputed 3? Yeah, this one had my blood pumping from the start. These two don’t just show up—they unleash. Adkins is in prime form, seemingly frozen in time since Boyka, delivering bone-crunching hits and crisp choreography that makes even the most budget-conscious production feel like a blockbuster. There’s no fluff, no wasted time. The action kicks in the moment his boots touch the tarmac and doesn’t quit until the final blow is struck.

Marko Zaror, though… wow. This man is a beast. Not only does he play one of the most cold-blooded assassins in recent memory, but he also designed the fight sequences—and it shows. Every encounter is tight, vicious, and beautifully brutal. Zaror’s El Corvo is like a nightmare sent straight from hell: precise, sadistic, and seemingly unstoppable. His entrance into a cartel nightclub, where he proceeds to dismantle every goon in sight, is easily one of the standout scenes in modern action. He moves like a panther and hits like a freight train. If this was an audition to be the next Terminator, someone needs to sign the papers now.

What really elevates Diablo isn’t just the action (which is phenomenal), it’s the dark tone and relentless pace. The story feels grounded with just the right amount of grit, and the final throwdown in a cement factory between Adkins and Zaror is pure, old-school gold. No gimmicks—just two warriors beating each other senseless with everything on the line. It’s exactly the kind of showdown action fans dream of.

Adkins is the noble fighter, using every ounce of training and raw will to keep his word. Zaror is like the evil mirror image—ruthless, driven, and deadly. If John Wick had a twin raised in hell, it’d be El Corvo. Seeing these two clash again is a gift, and the film makes every second of it count.

Diablo is a must-watch for action fans. It’s stripped down, full throttle, and packed with the kind of raw energy and expert fight choreography that this genre desperately needs more of. It’s gritty, fast, and brutal in the best possible ways. If there’s ever a sequel—or better yet, a prequel exploring El Corvo’s past—I’m already there. Highly recommended. Adkins and Zaror don’t just deliver—they dominate.