Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is stepping back into the ring—but this time, it’s not for wrestling. The 52-year-old actor has undergone a dramatic transformation to portray legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, a new A24 film directed by Benny Safdie.
The first official look at Johnson in character was released on May 21, 2024, revealing a strikingly different appearance. Known for his signature bald look and extensive tattoos, the actor now sports short hair and a tattoo-free body, making him almost unrecognizable.
Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, rose to fame in the late 1990s but struggled with personal demons, including addiction to painkillers. The film will explore both his career triumphs and the challenges he faced outside the ring.
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A Story of Victory and Struggle
The Smashing Machine is Safdie’s first solo directorial project, following his success with Uncut Gems. The film delves into Kerr’s complex journey as a fighter, focusing not only on his dominance in the octagon but also on his battle with substance abuse.
Emily Blunt co-stars as Dawn Staples, Kerr’s then-girlfriend, offering a glimpse into the emotional toll that his lifestyle took on those closest to him. Kerr himself is involved in the project as a co-writer, adding authenticity to the script.
After the release of the first-look image, Kerr shared his excitement on Instagram, captioning the post, “So wild.”
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Johnson’s Intense Preparation for the Role
Portraying an elite MMA fighter requires more than just an aesthetic change. Johnson, who maintains an intense fitness regimen, began what he called his “MMA workouts” in April to prepare for the role.
“I’m coming into this in pretty good conditioning and cardio shape, but MMA is a different animal,” Johnson wrote on Instagram. “And Mark Kerr was a ‘one of one’ monster.”
The actor also shared a personal connection to the film’s themes, expressing that it was more than just another role. “I’ve lost so many friends (wrestlers) over the years from addiction and mental health [struggles],” he said. “This is my love letter to them.”
A24’s Latest High-Profile Project
A24, known for producing bold and unconventional films, is backing The Smashing Machine alongside Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions. The company released the teaser image ahead of the Cannes Film Festival, where Johnson met with buyers to discuss the film.
Noah Sacco, an executive at A24, described the project as a unique collaboration. “Dwayne and Benny are singular talents, and their shared vision for Mark’s inspiring story is electrifying,” he said. “We are deeply honored to have their trust as collaborators in bringing this incredibly special project to life.”
Johnson’s Expanding Legacy
While Johnson is best known for his wrestling and action roles, The Smashing Machine marks a return to his combat sports roots. His ability to balance intense physicality with emotionally driven performances could set the film apart.
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Beyond Hollywood, Johnson has also made headlines for hinting at political aspirations. During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, he acknowledged ongoing speculation about a potential presidential run. “It’s crazy, and it’s wild,” he said. “This run for President talk has kind of been in the ether for the past couple of years.”
For now, though, his focus remains on bringing Kerr’s story to life—a journey of triumph, struggle, and resilience.
