The Rock to Star as UFC Legend Mark Kerr in New Film “The Smashing Machine”

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is stepping into a dramatically different role in The Smashing Machine, a biopic chronicling the turbulent life of MMA pioneer Mark Kerr. Directed by Benny Safdie, the film is set for release on October 3, 2025, and tells not just the triumphs in Kerr’s fighting career but also his deeply personal struggles outside the Octagon.

Who Mark Kerr Is

Mark Kerr was a dominant figure in MMA in the late 1990s and early 2000s, earning the nickname The Smashing Machine for his wrestling base and brutal ground-and-pound. He fought in early UFC tournaments, Pride, and other MMA circuits, becoming known for his physical strength and relentless approach. But besides his fighting successes, Kerr also struggled with addiction, injuries, and the emotional toll of high-pressure competition.

The Rock’s Transformation

Johnson’s portrayal of Kerr requires a stunning physical and emotional transformation. To bring authenticity to the role, he’s undergone extensive makeup work, including prosthetics and facial changes, and has altered his physique to mirror Kerr’s during his career peak. Early trailers and images show Johnson looking almost unrecognizable, sparking excitement among fans and critics.

SHOP: Kids Kickboxing Sets

More Than Just a Fight Film

While The Smashing Machine includes Kerr’s major fights and achievements, the real emotional core is his life outside competition. The film explores Kerr’s battle with addiction, his relationships, including his struggles with Dawn Staples played by Emily Blunt, and how fame and physical pain impacted his mental health.

Why This Role Matters

For The Rock, this marks a major departure from his usual action-blockbuster roles toward a more grounded, vulnerable, and dramatic performance. Critics are already buzzing that this could be one of his finest roles yet, with some suggesting it might bring awards recognition. For MMA fans, Kerr’s story has long been one of the most compelling and tragic in the sport, and this film aims to give it the emotional depth and attention it deserves.

The Smashing Machine is set to release on October 3, 2025, and could be one of the most powerful sports dramas in recent memory.