Universal has officially set a release date for the sequel to Pacific Rim, February 23, 2018 (about a year after the original release date which was moved then pull off the schedule). Things have started to ramp up with director Steven S. DeKnight, than Star Wars hero John Boyega both being attached. Production is also scheduled to start in the 4th quarter. There is no word on if any stars from the first film will return. The opening is between the openings of two Marvel movies: Black Panther on February 16 and an untitled Fox/Marvel pic on March 2, hopefully this won't hurt it. The sequel has Boyega playing the son of Idris Elba’s character from the first film.

Pacific Rim 2 seemed dead in the water not so long ago but the film has been getting some injections of hope first in the name of Steven S. DeKnight now John Boyega has join the fray. DeKnight is directing the film, with original director Guillermo del Toro acting as producer with co-creator Trais Beachum. Boyega has been cast in the lead role, and will play the son of Idris Elba's character, Stacker Pentacost, from the first film. In addition to his on-camera role, Boyega has also been added as a producer alongside his partner in his new film company Upper Room Productions, Femi Oguns. 

“It is undeniable that with all his talent and natural charm, John stands out amongst today's generation of young leading men,” said Legendary's Vice Chairman of Worldwide Production, Mary Parent.

"I am very proud and happy to welcome John into a fantastic sandbox," del Toro said. "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."

"So happy! My company UpperRoom Productions founded by myself & @MrFemiOguns, will co-produce #PacificRim2 alongside @Legendary", John Boyega (from Twitter).

"I'm doubly excited to be working with you, John!  Can't wait to show the world what we're cooking up!  @JohnBoyega", Steven S. DeKnight (from Twitter).