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‘Smashing Machine’: Dwayne Johnson’s Transformation as UFC Legend Mark Kerr in Benny Safdie’s Biopic

Mega movie star Dwayne Johnson undergoes an extreme transformation in the first trailer for The Smashing Machin, a biopic about two-time UFC heavyweight champ Mark Kerr.

Benny Safdie, one of Safdie brothers who co-directed and wrote “Uncut Gems” and “Good Time,” makes his solo directorial feature debut.

Johnson and Emily Blunt: New On-Screen Couple

In addition to Johnson, the cast includes Oscar nominee Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer) as Kerr’s wife Dawn Staples, Bas Rutten, Lyndsey Gavin and Oleksandr Usyk.

“The Smashing Machine” is Johnson and Blunt’s second collaboration after Disney’s “Jungle Cruise” in 2021.

The duo next team with Oscar winner DiCaprio on a Hawaiian crime thriller from Scorsese.

Kerr was a mixed martial artist who fought from 1997 to 2009, winning four ADCC World Championships in his career. In 2002, Kerr was the subject of an HBO documentary also entitled “The Smashing Machine,” which centered around his substance abuse issues and tumultuous relationships with his girlfriend and trainers.

Safdie wrote the script and produces alongside Johnson, Dany Garcia, Eli Bush, Hiram Garcia and David Koplan. Tracey Landon executive produce

The Smashing Machine comes to theaters on October 3.

Watch the trailer below.

Oscars 2026: Dwayne Johnson in Safdie’s A24 Biopic, “The Smashing Machine”

Early (Premature) Oscar Noms Predictions

‘Smashing Machine’: Dwayne Johnson’s Transformation as UFC Legend Mark Kerr in Benny Safdie’s Biopic

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