Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Stepping Into Different Ring In Forthcoming UFC Film

Armon Sadler
·2 min read
2

WWE legend and successful actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will step into a different ring in his next film. The 51-year-old will play two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion Mark Kerr in a forthcoming A24 movie directed by Benny Safdie.

The Smashing Machine will tell the story of Kerr’s achievements as a mixed martial artist but also his struggles with addiction. Kerr was the subject of an HBO documentary of the same name in 2002 and Johnson and Safdie will provide a fresh look upon its release.

Safdie and Johnson have been working on the film since 2019, and the former will be responsible for both the writing and direction. A24 will handle the financial end and production in conjunction with Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions, Safdie’s Out For The Count, Eli Bush, and David Koplan.

“Dwayne and Benny [Safdie] are singular talents, and their shared vision for Mark’s inspiring story is electrifying,” A24’s Noah Sacco said in a statement promoting The Smashing Machine. “We are deeply honored to have their trust as collaborators in bringing this incredibly special project to life.”

Benny Safdie’s involvement is highly touted as he directed and co-wrote the popular 2019 film Uncut Gems. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s lengthy filmography includes several appearances in the Fast & Furious series, The Mummy Returns, The Scorpion King, Gridiron Gang, The Game Plan, and many more.

The 2017 NAACP Image Award Winner made his grand return to the WWE in September after almost four years away. The 10-time world champion appeared on the Sept. 15 episode of SmackDown, stepping into the ring with former NFL player Pat McAfee and current WWE superstar Austin Theory for a vintage electrifying segment that was almost inaudible due to the crowd’s excitement. In true The Rock fashion, it ended with him giving Theory his legendary finisher, The People’s Elbow. Watch the full segment below.

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