A journey that began in a small council flat in Peckham, London, has led Achilleus Ralli — the UK-Thai-Greek-Cypriot martial artist, actor, and humanitarian — to the world stage, where his latest film “23 Seconds” has been awarded Best Martial Arts Film at the 2025 Urban Action Showcase & Expo (UASIAFF Awards) in New York City.

Produced by Dewa Pictures (Indonesia) and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Peter Taslim, the movie triumphed among international entries, following its earlier nomination at the Milan FICTS International Sport Movies & TV Festival. It marks another milestone in a life shaped by discipline, vision, and purpose.

Peter Taslim captures the art and emotion of cinema in “23 Seconds”, delivering moments that leave audiences deeply moved. Beyond the film’s powerful choreography, he also captures the spirit of Achilleus Ralli himself — his discipline, compassion, and belief in using martial arts as a force for change.

A Story Rooted in Real Life

Filmed across Indonesia and Thailand, “23 Seconds” draws its spirit from Khlong Toei, Bangkok — a district often described as one of the city’s toughest, yet also one of its most spirited. It is here that Achilleus and his partners built the OGF4 Academy under his Foundation the Fight For The Future Foundation (F4), creating hope and opportunity in a place where hardship is part of daily life.

Scenes were filmed based around the foundation’s own gym and students, where Achilleus and his team mentor local youth through the values of discipline, focus, and respect. The children who train there learn not only the art of combat, but the art of self-belief — finding purpose and dignity through sport. Many of these young athletes appear in the film itself, giving “23 Seconds” its heartbeat of authenticity.

Each year, the foundation hosts the Khlong Toei Fight Festival, bringing the community together in a celebration of courage, unity, and talent. The festival brings together fighters from all backgrounds — from Muay Thai and MMA to boxing and grappling — alongside live music and food shared freely among neighbours. It’s more than competition; it’s a reminder that from even the hardest environments, strength and hope can rise.

Over time, the foundation’s work has helped countless boys and girls earn university scholarships, pursue careers in sport, and represent Thailand on the national stage — proving that the right opportunity can change everything.

Legacy of Discipline and Devotion

Born to a Greek-Cypriot father and Thai-Chinese mother, Achilleus and his brother Alex began judo at the age of three under their late father Arthur Michael (Athanasios Michalis) Rallis, a Theoretical Physicist and former national coach for the Greece Judo Team. Their grandmother, Elli Rossidou, hailed from Kaimakli, Nicosia, grounding their identity in Cypriot heritage, while their mother Chaleio Nantalie, from Chiang Mai, Thailand, brought warmth and cultural depth to their upbringing.

Today, Achilleus is a three-time Southeast Asian Games Judo Champion, former Captain of the Thai National Judo Team, and General Secretary of the Thailand Mixed Martial Arts Association (TAMMA). He works closely with GAMMA – the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts, shaping the sport’s international future, and his role as a commentator for ONE Championship has made his voice known to audiences across Asia and beyond.

Brotherhood, Culture, and Connection

Alongside the film and foundation, Alexander Ralli — who worked closely with his brother Achilleus throughout the “23 Seconds” journey and has had an illustrious judo career of his own — brings that same spirit of unity to Rallis & Buathong’s Greek Restaurant in Hua Mak, Bangkok. Known for its authentic Greek food, welcoming atmosphere, and lively gatherings, the restaurant has become a true home away from home for locals and travellers alike. For years, the brothers have built a genuine community around it — a place where friendships are forged, stories are shared, and people feel connected. It stands as a quiet bridge between worlds — Cyprus, Thailand, and beyond.