Los Angeles [US] – The official trailer for The Smashing Machine, starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, has been unveiled, offering a striking first look at his dramatic transformation into UFC legend Mark Kerr.
Known for his larger-than-life roles, Johnson appears nearly unrecognisable in this raw and intense portrayal of Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion whose career was marked by glory, addiction, and personal turmoil.
Directed by Benny Safdie—of Uncut Gems and Good Time fame—this film marks Safdie’s solo directorial feature debut. Emily Blunt co-stars as Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples, reuniting with Johnson after their 2021 adventure hit Jungle Cruise. The cast also includes Bas Rutten, Lyndsey Gavin, and boxing champ Oleksandr Usyk.
The film explores Kerr’s career from 1997 to 2009, during which he claimed four ADCC World Championship titles. It also delves into his struggles with substance abuse and strained relationships, previously chronicled in the 2002 HBO documentary of the same name.
The Smashing Machine is set for release on October 3.