New Mortal Kombat 2 movie trailer is all Johnny Cage, no Cole Young
Polygon
by Michael McWhertorFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The newly released trailer for *Mortal Kombat 2* has shifted focus from the previous film's controversial protagonist, Cole Young, to center around Johnny Cage as the franchise's new lead. The trailer, which dropped on Wednesday, emphasizes the continuation of the Mortal Kombat tournament storyline while notably excluding Cole Young, sparking curiosity and speculation among fans about the film's direction.
The absence of Cole Young in the trailer has generated significant discussion within gaming and entertainment circles. While the first *Mortal Kombat* movie (2021) relied heavily on Cole's journey from an unknown MMA fighter to a Mortal Kombat warrior, the sequel appears to pivot toward Johnny Cage as its central figure. Known for his bravado and martial arts skills, Johnny Cage is being positioned as the new hero of the franchise. This shift marks a deliberate creative decision to focus on established characters and storylines tied directly to the *Mortal Kombat* universe.
For fans of the series, this trailer signals a return to roots, with the Mortal Kombat tournament taking center stage. The exclusion of Cole Young suggests that the sequel will delve deeper into the lore and mythology of the game's world, rather than focusing on newcomer narratives. This approach aligns with the franchise's origins, where established warriors like Johnny Cage, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and others play pivotal roles in the tournament.
From a gaming perspective, this trailer highlights the enduring appeal of *Mortal Kombat* as a property that bridges film, games, and entertainment. The decision to focus on
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Originally published on Polygon on 2/25/2026