Inside The Smashing Machine: Mark Kerr’s Candid Take on Dwayne Johnson’s Biopic Role

The Smashing Machine, the upcoming biopic directed by Bennie Safdie and set to hit screens in 2025, has fans buzzing, especially after MMA legend Mark Kerr shared his thoughts on Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson’s portrayal of him during a recent Joe Rogan podcast.

Recorded on September 24, 2025, and aired on September 25, 2025, the episode offered a rare glimpse into Kerr’s perspective on the film, which chronicles his rise and fall in the MMA world.

With production wrapped and a release date looming, Kerr’s insights add depth to the anticipation surrounding this A24 project.

What Did Mark Kerr Say About Dwayne Johnson’s Performance?

Mark Kerr praised Dwayne Johnson’s commitment to the role during the podcast. He highlighted Johnson’s curiosity about his experiences in Japan, where Kerr fought in the late 1990s, noting how Johnson asked detailed questions about treatment and pay.

Kerr described Johnson as being at a career crossroads, seeking a departure from blockbusters to tackle a more serious role. This aligns with Johnson’s own comments in a December 2023 A24 announcement, where he expressed excitement about shedding his larger-than-life persona.

Kerr also recalled their shared training days at Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach during the late 1990s, suggesting a personal connection that informs Johnson’s portrayal. He emphasized Johnson’s understanding of the physical and emotional toll of sports, a theme central to The Smashing Machine.

The podcast, available on Spotify, has already garnered over 500,000 views in its first 24 hours, reflecting widespread interest.

How Does Kerr View the Film’s Approach to His Life Story?

Kerr provided context on how The Smashing Machine captures his journey from MMA dominance to personal struggles with addiction and health.

He told Rogan that the film, based on the 2002 documentary of the same name, aims to explore his aggressive fighting style and subsequent downfall, including the loss of his marriage.

This narrative mirrors Johnson’s own athletic past, as Kerr noted, adding authenticity to the performance.

Production details from Wikipedia, updated September 25, 2025, confirm filming occurred from May to August 2024 across New Mexico, Tokyo, and Vancouver.

Kerr appreciated Johnson’s transformative approach, citing a July 2024 tweet where Johnson mentioned shedding 15 pounds to match Kerr’s physique during his prime.

This dedication underscores the film’s gritty realism, a point Kerr emphasized as crucial to his story’s retelling.

What Insights Did Kerr Share About His MMA Career?

During the podcast, Kerr reflected on his early MMA days, describing the sport’s chaotic beginnings in the 1990s. He explained transitioning from a potential Olympic wrestler to a UFC star, earning the nickname “The Smashing Machine” for his decisive victories.

Kerr told Rogan about the lack of structure back then, contrasting it with today’s regulated fights, a theme likely explored in the biopic.

He also touched on meeting Johnson during their Venice Beach training, a serendipitous encounter that planted the seeds for The Smashing Machine.

TIME magazine’s September 5, 2025, article corroborates Kerr’s account, noting his drive to be seen as a professional rather than a “bar brawler.” This backstory enriches the film’s portrayal of his character arc.

How Has the Biopic Impacted Kerr Personally?

Kerr admitted the process of reliving his past through The Smashing Machine has been emotional. He told Rogan about collaborating with Johnson, who sought his input on addiction and recovery, themes central to the film.

Kerr’s openness suggests a cathartic experience, supported by a LowKickMMA report from September 25, 2025, where he expressed gratitude for Johnson’s sensitivity to his struggles.

The film’s IMDb page, updated October 3, 2025, rates it 8.7 based on early screenings, with critics praising Johnson’s raw performance. Kerr’s involvement, including on-set consultations as noted by Variety in August 2024, indicates a hands-on approach that could deepen the biopic’s impact on his legacy.

Some Closing Thoughts:

The Smashing Machine promises to be a standout biopic, blending Mark Kerr’s raw life story with Dwayne Johnson’s transformative performance.

Kerr’s recent podcast revelations offer a personal lens on the project, enhancing its authenticity and appeal.

As the release nears, fans can look forward to a film that honors Kerr’s legacy while showcasing Johnson’s versatility. This collaboration might just redefine sports dramas on the big screen.

What are you expecting from The Smashing Machine? Jump down in the comments section down below and let us know!