The initial trailer for the new film *The Smashing Machine*, directed and written by Benny Safdie, reveals Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson`s complete transformation into UFC icon Mark Kerr.
Set to premiere in theaters on October 3rd, this highly anticipated movie chronicles Kerr`s career, from his success as a two-time UFC tournament champion to his subsequent struggles with addiction to painkillers and narcotics, a result of numerous injuries sustained during fighting and wrestling.
The film draws heavily from a 2002 documentary of the same title. That documentary followed Kerr from his peak performance in the UFC to a fresh start with PRIDE FC in Japan, where initial success was eventually overshadowed by the resurgence of his addictions.
Oscar-nominated actress Emily Blunt plays Dawn Staples, Kerr`s ex-wife, who had a significant presence throughout the original documentary chronicling the fighter`s life.
Former Bellator heavyweight champion Ryan Bader takes on a key role as UFC Hall of Famer Mark Coleman. Coleman, who was once a competitor to Kerr, ultimately served as a mentor as Kerr attempted to get his career back on track. The documentary detailed Kerr`s difficulties in reaching his former heights in PRIDE, contrasting with Coleman`s own career revival, including his victory in the first-ever PRIDE Heavyweight Grand Prix.
Heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk portrays Igor Vovchanchyn, a legendary Russian fighter Kerr faced in PRIDE. Bas Rutten appears in the movie playing himself, mirroring his prominent role in the original documentary.
Additional fighters, including James Moontasri, Satoshi Ishii, and Roberto ‘Cyborg’ Abreu, also make appearances in the film.
Benny Safdie, recognized for his collaborations with his brother Josh Safdie on films such as *Uncut Gems*, makes his directorial debut with this project.
The film is scheduled to arrive in theaters nationwide on October 3rd.
