Who Is Mark Kerr? UFC Icon’s Biopic ‘The Smashing Machine’ Starring Dwayne Johnson
Dwayne Johnson’s recent film, The Smashing Machine, represents one of his most transformative and daring roles. Directed by Benny Safdie, known for Uncut Gems, this gritty biographical drama chronicles the life of former UFC champion Mark Kerr.
Mark Kerr’s Story
Kerr, a powerful fighter from Ohio, experienced notable success in the cage, yet his career was often overshadowed by addiction and personal struggles. The film explores both his athletic prowess and the challenges he faced.
Film Premiere and Performance
The Smashing Machine premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025, where critics applauded Johnson’s raw and emotional performance.
“Johnson reportedly spent three to four hours a day in the makeup chair, wearing over a dozen prosthetics to embody Kerr’s appearance.”
Many expected this role to finally earn Johnson an Oscar nomination due to his dedication and the film’s authenticity under Safdie’s direction.
Box Office and Digital Release
Despite positive reviews, the film struggled commercially. After its October 3 theatrical release, the A24 production grossed only $20.2 million worldwide against a $40 million budget, as reported by Koimoi.
By early November, The Smashing Machine had largely disappeared from theaters, leading to an earlier-than-expected streaming release.
Streaming Availability
The digital release allows a wider audience to experience Johnson’s powerful portrayal and Kerr’s compelling story without waiting for a traditional theatrical run.
Author’s summary: Dwayne Johnson’s committed transformation in The Smashing Machine highlights Mark Kerr’s turbulent UFC career but faced box office disappointment, pushing an early streaming release.