Hollywood Actor Dwayne Johnson is set to step into the shoes of mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr. A24 announced that the actor, 51, will portray the MMA and UFC champion in the upcoming film The Smashing Machine from filmmaker Benny Safdie, reports People magazine. "Dwayne and Benny are singular talents, and their shared vision for Mark’s inspiring story is electrifying. We are deeply honoured to have their trust as collaborators in bringing this incredibly special project to life," A24's Noah Sacco said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter and Variety. The Rock Returns! Dwayne Johnson Makes A Comeback in WWE After Four Years, Delivers People's Elbow to Austin Theory in Presence of Pat McAfee (Watch Videos).
Safdie, 37, previously worked with his brother Josh Safdie as the co-director of Uncut Gems, which starred Adam Sandler, and Good Time starring Robert Pattinson. As per People, The Smashing Machine will be Safdie's first solo project as both writer and director. Johnson, Safdie, Dany Garcia, Eli Bush and David Koplan are producing the film. The movie is set to explore the life of Kerr, at the peak of his career in 2000, while he navigates career victories, love, friendship and addiction. Kerr, 54, earned the nickname The Smashing Machine due to his unbridled fighting style. 'Welcome Home' John Cena Greets Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson After the Latter Makes A Comeback in WWE After Four Years (See Post).
Dwayne Johnson All Set To Star In The Smashing Machine:
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will play MMA fighter Mark Kerr in the upcoming film The Smashing Machine from Uncut Gems co-director Benny Safdie, A24 announced. https://t.co/njW4Xl6d77 pic.twitter.com/sw6FRw5RY3
— IGN (@IGN) December 14, 2023
He won over two dozen MMA titles and was a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, as well as a World Vale Tudo Championship tournament winner. Dwayne Johnson's other upcoming projects include Red Notice 2, Fast X: Part 2, Jungle Cruise 2, Red One and the live-action remake of Moana.
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