"Pacific Rim" co-creator Guillermo del Toro proudly announced that "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" breakout star John Boyega will lead the cast of the upcoming sequel "Pacific Rim 2."

The confirmation was exclusively reported by Deadline and quotes Del Toro as saying, "I am very proud and happy to welcome John into a fantastic sandbox. The 'Pacific Rim' universe will be reinforced with him as a leading man as it continues to be a multicultural, multi-layered world. 'The World saving the world' was our goal and I couldn't think of a better man for the job."

Co-producer Mary Parent is also happy to have Boyega on board and said, "It is undeniable that with all his talent and natural charm, John stands out amongst today's generation of young leading men."

Boyega will play the son of Stacker Pentecost, who was portrayed by actor Idris Elba on the first film. Stacker was a Marshal in the Pan Pacific Defense Corps and he died in 2025. Because of the importance of his character in the first film, there have been rumors that Elba will reprise his role, but this has not yet been confirmed.

"Pacific Rim 2" will start production late this year and will be directed by Steven S. DeKnight. Along with del Toro, Parent, and Boyega, Thomas Tull, Jon Jashni, and Femi Oguns will produce the film under Upper Room Productions. It will be released by Legendary Pictures under Universal Studios.

Legendary and Universal made the announcement back in 2014 with a summer 2017 release. After creating a buzz, pre-production did not happen and was believed to be canceled until early this year. The first film grossed $411 million in 2013 and a follow-up project has long been anticipated.

Aside from "Pacific Rim 2," Boyega is also reprising his role in the upcoming "Star Wars: Episode IX." He is also set to work with actor Tom Hanks and actress Emma Watson in the film "The Circle."