In the upcoming movie “The Smashing Machine,” Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will portray MMA pioneer Mark Kerr. Johnson is undergoing intense MMA training to accurately depict Kerr’s fighting style and physique. The film, directed by Benny Safdie and produced by A24, will delve into Kerr’s career and personal struggles, particularly his battle with addiction to pain medication.
Johnson’s transformation includes adopting Kerr’s muscular build and physicality, reflecting his achievements as a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion and ADCC World Submission Champion.
On Tuesday, A24 revealed a first look at Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Mark Kerr, with production already underway. Johnson stars as Kerr, a two-time UFC tournament champion who battled drug addiction throughout his career.
First look at Benny Safdie’s THE SMASHING MACHINE starring @TheRock and Emily Blunt. pic.twitter.com/GVC2XIHwGV
— A24 (@A24) May 21, 2024
The photo also features Emily Blunt, playing Kerr’s ex-wife Dawn Staples, a role she portrayed prominently in the 2002 documentary that inspired the film. Johnson, who is training with Kerr for authenticity, shared photos of their sessions as he prepares for his role as the former MMA champion.
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