Much like the announcement that Chris Pratt had landed the lead in GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY, news of Jason Momoa getting the supporting role of Drax the Destroyer came out of nowhere. That is not to say this is not a great choice, because if this ends up being true, GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY just got a little more badass.

Latino Review reported exclusively that Momoa was offered the role after delivering a screen test that blew away the producers who made an offer and are in negotiations as we speak. Prior to this news, the cast being considered included Isaiah Mustafa, Dave Bautista, and Brian Patrick.

Here is a little background on Drax:

Arthur Douglas was a human whose family was attacked and killed by the supervillain Thanos. Needing a champion to combat Thanos, the being known as Kronos took Arthur's spirit and placed it in a powerful new body, and Drax the Destroyer was born. Drax's powers included enhanced strength and resilience, flight, and the ability to project energy blasts from his hands. The character often battled Thanos, and on occasion the superheroes Captain Marvel and Adam Warlock.

Momoa is best known for starring in STARGATE: ATLANTIS, GAME OF THRONES, and the title role in the reboot of CONAN. He is an imposing presence and will need minimal physical alteration to play Drax aside from some make-up. Momoa is just recognizable enough that he will mesh well in the team and has the chance to explode in popularity if GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY is done correctly.

Anyone else excited for this movie more now? GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY opens August 1, 2014.