Oleksandr Usyk, the newly crowned unified heavyweight boxing champion, is set to take on a new challenge in the world of acting. Before his anticipated rematch with Tyson Fury in October, Usyk will join Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in the biopic “The Smashing Machine,” which chronicles the life of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC tournament champion who battled drug addiction throughout his career.
In this film, Usyk will portray PRIDE FC legend Igor Vovchanchyn, a formidable opponent who fought Kerr in 1999. Their bout was notable for its intensity, although the result was later overturned due to illegal knee strikes. Vovchanchyn was a significant figure in the PRIDE organization, facing off against some of the top heavyweights of his era and earning a reputation for his relentless fighting style.
Usyk’s involvement in “The Smashing Machine” adds a layer of authenticity to the project, given his own status as a professional fighter. According to IMDB, his role as Vovchanchyn will bring to life the legendary matchups and rivalries that defined the early days of mixed martial arts. This film not only highlights Kerr’s personal and professional struggles but also showcases the broader history and development of the sport, with Vovchanchyn being a key player in that narrative.
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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