When it was first announced that Usher would be playing boxer Sugar Ray Leonard, diagnosis folks were wondering if he could pull off the role. Physically, he’s got it, but how’s the acting chops?

Earlier today, the first set of images from the set of the new biopic, “Hands Of Stone” in Panama City were released, which features Usher showing off a physique similar to that of the legendary boxer. For the role, Usher dropped from 180 pounds to 146 pounds after months of training and riding his bike 20 miles a day. He also had to undergo full body makeup to cover up his numerous tattoos.

Last month, during an interview with Men’s Health, Usher revealed that he is fully committed to the role, and because of that, his music career is on hold until filming is complete:

You can’t box, ride a bike for 20 miles in the heat—Georgia heat—and then go to the studio and rehearse. That’s not happening.

My commitment to this character demands that I not only physically get ready, but also become him. The hair, the personality, the manner he conducts himself in—all that. He’s an incredible man.