Why Is The Rock Making a $40 Million Movie About Mark Kerr? The True Story Behind the Upcoming Biopic
Why Is The Rock Making a $40 Million Movie About Mark Kerr? The True Story Behind the Upcoming Biopic
By Ali Hammad June 04, 2025 09:40
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s decision to produce and star in the $40 million biopic The Smashing Machine about MMA pioneer Mark Kerr is a compelling move that merges Hollywood spectacle with the gritty reality of early mixed martial arts. The film, set for release on October 3, 2025, promises to delve deep into Kerr’s tumultuous career and personal struggles, offering a raw and unprecedented look at the sport’s formative years.
Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion and World Vale Tudo Championship winner, was a dominant force in MMA during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known as “the Smashing Machine” for his relentless fighting style that included head-butts and knee strikes on grounded opponents, Kerr’s career was marked not only by his physical prowess but also by battles with addiction and injury. His story was first documented in the acclaimed 2002 HBO film The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr, which captured his debut MMA tournament and his harrowing struggles with painkillers and substance abuse.
Johnson, a former professional wrestler turned Hollywood superstar, has long been fascinated by combat sports. In a recent interview on the Pat McAfee Show, he explained his motivation for taking on the role: “I wanted a challenge, and I just wanted the opportunity to disappear into something and disappear into a part and a role that would challenge me in ways that I’ve never been challenged before.” This biopic represents a departure from Johnson’s usual blockbuster fare, offering a more nuanced, character-driven narrative that explores the physical and emotional toll of MMA’s brutal early days.
To authentically portray Kerr, Johnson underwent intense physical training, immersing himself in MMA techniques and working with UFC legends. “I’ve transitioned from a pro ring to an MMA cage,” Johnson shared on Instagram, emphasizing his commitment to capturing the essence of Kerr’s fighting spirit. The film also features notable combat sports figures like former heavyweight champion Bas Rutten, adding credibility and depth to the portrayal of the MMA world.
The production’s $40 million budget reflects both the ambition behind the project and the complexity of telling Kerr’s story. Beyond the fights, the film explores Kerr’s personal battles, including his toxic relationship with then-wife Dawn Staples and his fight against addiction, which nearly cost him his life. The documentary footage used as a foundation for the film revealed moments of raw vulnerability, including Kerr’s overdose and subsequent rehabilitation, which the filmmakers approached with sensitivity and respect, ensuring Kerr had final approval over the content.
Early reviews suggest The Smashing Machine may not be a conventional sports biopic. Directed by Benny Safdie, known for his distinctive and sometimes unconventional style, the film is described as one of the strangest A24 productions, blending intense fight sequences with a deep psychological portrait of Kerr. This artistic approach aligns with Johnson’s desire to push beyond typical action roles and explore the complexities of a fighter’s life inside and outside the cage.
Mark Kerr’s legacy extends beyond his championships; he is a symbol of MMA’s evolution from a niche, brutal sport to a global phenomenon. His story, marked by triumph, pain, and redemption, resonates with fans and fighters alike. Johnson’s portrayal not only honors Kerr’s contributions but also sheds light on the human cost behind the spectacle.
The Smashing Machine is more than a biopic; it is a tribute to the raw, unfiltered reality of MMA’s early days, brought to life by one of Hollywood’s biggest stars willing to embrace the challenge. As Johnson said, “The highs from this sport are like no other highs in the world. Twelve thousand people out there cheering for you that’s like orgasmic, that’s like a high.” This film aims to capture that intensity and the price paid to achieve it3
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