Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is about to step back into the ring. Or in this case, the cage. Johnson is set to star in a long-gestating project from Benny Safdie (“Uncut Gems“) about MMA fighter Mark Kerr. Titled “The Smashing Machine” after Kerr’s signature fighting style, the film has been picked up by A24.
Kerr is a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, World Vale Tudo Championship tournament winner, and a PRIDE FC competitor. Johnson seems like the perfect casting for him, especially with that physique.
“Dwayne and Benny are singular talents, and their shared vision for Mark’s inspiring story is electrifying,” A24’s Noah Sacco said. “We are deeply honored to have their trust as collaborators in bringing this incredibly special project to life.”
A24 is financing, as well as producing. Johnson and Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks Productions, Safdie’s Out for the Count banner, Eli Bush and David Koplan are also producing.
Johnson has reportedly been part of the development on the project since 2019.
