Former Harry Potter actor Josh Herdman has undergone a dramatic transformation since the film franchise ended in 2011. The 28-year-old recently made his debut as a cage fighter, defeating Polish opponent Janusz Walachowski at an MMA show in Romford, east London.

London-born Herdman played Gregory Goyle in all eight Harry Potter movies, ending with The Deathly Hallows – Part 2 in 2011. His character was the snarling sidekick of Harry’s blonde-haired rival, Draco Malfoy.

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Speaking about his career change to Addicted MMA, Herdman said: “I’ve been training traditional Japanese jujitsu for nearly five years and hold a shodan black belt.” Growing up, Herdman was surrounded by sports as his father Martin is an ex-rugby player and boxer who later turned to acting.

“I chose MMA because I love the sport. It’s raw, exciting and unpredictable,” he continued. “I find it more interesting than boxing although I appreciate the beauty and art in boxing. It also made sense to move onto MMA because of my jujitsu training.”

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But despite his move to MMA Josh still hasn't given up on an acting career. Currently he’s working alongside his father Martin on drama Sink, which is due to be released later this year. “I haven’t fallen out of love with it,” he added. “I still have an agent and still go for auditions. It’s just a little bit like playing the lottery for a living."