Dwayne Johnson (aka The Rock) is certainly no stranger to combat sports. For almost 30 years, he has been a staple of professional wrestling and since 1999 has appeared in numerous Hollywood blockbusters. In The Smashing Machine, he'll combine both his physical presence and dramatic chops to portray real-life MMA legend Mark Kerr, a man whose dominance inside the cage were matched only by the struggles he faced outside of it.
The film, directed by Benny Safdie (Uncut Gems), marks a significant departure from Johnson's usual larger-than-life hero roles. Instead, he will step into a raw, emotionally intense story about addiction, fame and the brutality of mixed marital arts. Kerr was one of the most fierce competitors to ever fight but he battled substance abuse and personal demons even as he was at the apex of his career. Here's everything you need to know about the film.
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Yes, The Smashing Machine is based on the true story of Mark Kerr, a real-life mixed martial arts champion who fought professionally from 1997 to 2009. Known for his dominance in the early days of the UFC and PRIDE Fighting Championships, Kerr earned the nickname “The Smashing Machine” for his brute-force style and grappling prowess. Outside the ring, however, he struggled with addiction, chronic pain and the emotional toll of fame. The film is inspired by the 2002 HBO documentary of the same name, which offered a look at Kerr’s life and serves as the foundation for the film.
Related: WWE Superstar is Almost Unrecognizable as Troubled MMA Icon in Upcoming Film
What is the release date of The Smashing Machine?
The movie is scheduled for release in theatres on Oct. 3, 2025. It will have it's world premiere at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival.
Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples
Bas Rutten as Himself
Zoe Kosovic as McKenzie Coleman
Paul Cheng as Masaaki Satake
Yoko Hamamura as Kazuyuki Fujita
Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples
Bas Rutten as Himself
Zoe Kosovic as McKenzie Coleman
Paul Cheng as Masaaki Satake
Yoko Hamamura as Kazuyuki Fujita
Zoe Kosovic as McKenzie Coleman
Paul Cheng as Masaaki Satake
Yoko Hamamura as Kazuyuki Fujita
Related: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Hulk Hogan After WWE Legend's Death
Is there a trailer for The Smashing Machine?
Yes, you can view the trailer below.
How to watch The Smashing Machine?
The film will premiere only in theaters starting on October 3, 2025. It will likely then head to VOD before premiering on HBO Max.
Related: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Has Adorable Morning 'Make Up Party' With Young Daughters
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