From MMA To Big Screen: Haywire Star Gina Carano Talks Which Is Tougher

First Published: January 6, 2012 2:57 PM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption Gina Carano smiles at the premiere of Relativity Medias Haywire at DGA Theater in Los Angeles on January 5, 2012 LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- MMA fighter Gina Carano is moving from the octagon to the big screen and the transition is thrilling, yet challenging. The 29-year-old was plucked from the ring by renowned director Steven Soderbergh to play the lead role in his upcoming action thriller, Haywire, and Gina is overwhelmed by her newfound turn in the spotlight. Its a complete honor, Gina told Access Hollywood of her breakout role at the Haywire premiere in Los Angeles on Thursday. Its a beautiful cast and beautiful people are a part of it This is the best moment of my life. Though the Las Vegas native is accustomed to throwing punches for a crowd, she said getting glammed up for photos and red carpet interviews was for more nerve-wracking. I cant lie Im so nervous, she told Access. This is my first event Stunts are good with me. I love stunts I can be physical all day. Its this moment thats going to be a little bit more difficult, she added. While the limelight may cause her to have butterflies, Gina, a former American Gladiator, is happy to impress one very supportive fan in particular her father. Hes so proud hes probably in tears right now, she said. My fightings a little bit hard for his heart, so I think this is going to be a little bit hard for him. Watch Gina in action when Haywire also featuring Ewan McGregor, Channing Tatum, Michael Fassbender and Bill Paxton hits theaters on January 20. Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.