The former king of the ring - who grew up on the tough streets of Altona North - stars as action man Ajax in the multimillion dollar gangster movie Trojan Warrior which hits big screens across the west next week.

Director Salik Silverstein lauded the "extraordinary" performance of Longinidis.

"The camera loves him," he said.

"He's a natural. He's going to be huge."

Unit publicist Rod Sill said Longinidis had made the demanding lead role "all his own" during a stunning screen test.

"He blew everyone away with his performance," he said.

"It was him. Instantly. No one else had a chance after Stan was screen-tested. Not a chance in the world."

The modest Longinidis is reluctant to praise his performance, but admits to being "proud to be a part of this movie".

He paid tribute to the valuable support of his parents Steve and Suzie.

"Every day I try to make my parents proud," he said.

Longinidis enjoyed a diamond-studded kickboxing career which was highlighted by him winning eight world titles.

Fans include Hollywood superstars Chuck Norris, Priscilla Presley and Sylvester Stallone.

"I feel grateful and blessed to have had such a long and successful career," he said.

Meanwhile, celebrity spotters are expected to enjoy Trojan Warrior which features a cavalcade of cameo appearances from the likes of AFL larrikins Doug Hawkins, Dermott Brereton and Mark `Jacko' Jackson.

Notorious crime figure Mark `Chopper' Read and glamourous Channel 7 Today Tonight host Naomi Robson also catch the eye with cameo appearances.