Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson returns to the ring in a powerful new role portraying UFC icon Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, set for release in October 2025. Known for his early days as a WWE superstar, Johnson shifts focus to the brutal and often dangerous world of mixed martial arts, bringing to life the story of Kerr — a formidable fighter whose real-life battles extended far beyond the cage. Kerr, a decorated American MMA champion, rose to fame in the 1990s before personal demons, including addiction to painkillers, derailed his career.
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Kerr’s journey began with Olympic ambitions, but after missing out on a spot at the 1996 Summer Games to Kurt Angle, he redirected his efforts towards professional fighting. His prowess in the ring earned him the nickname “The Smashing Machine”, and he became a dominant force in both the UFC and Japan’s Pride Fighting Championships — the latter known for its savage bouts and high-profile athletes. Yet the intensity of competition took a toll, leading to a dependence on pain medication and eventually, a life-threatening overdose.
Following a stint in rehab and a brief return to the sport, Kerr retired and turned to a quieter life, later working at a Toyota dealership. He married Dawn Staples, portrayed by Emily Blunt in the film, though their relationship was strained by the violence and instability of Kerr’s fighting career. They had one son but separated in 2015. In recent years, Kerr revealed he has been battling peripheral neuropathy — a serious nerve condition that limits his ability to work. In 2019, he launched a GoFundMe to assist with medical expenses, citing the lack of options for pain relief due to his past struggles with addiction.
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The Smashing Machine, co-written by Kerr himself, features not only his rise and fall, but also explores his bond with trainer Bas Rutten, played by himself, and fellow fighter Mark Coleman. The film reflects on Kerr’s internal conflict between success in the ring and the cost to his mental and physical health. Already the subject of a 2002 documentary, Kerr’s story returns to screen in dramatic form, beginning with a powerful scene of him in a doctor’s waiting room — battered and reflective. Kerr praised Johnson’s performance, writing on Instagram: “I’m still in disbelief that this is real. I’m so proud of the work DJ put into becoming The Smashing Machine… Can’t wait to share this experience with the world.”
