Mark Kerr, the legendary MMA fighter famously known as “The Smashing Machine,” recently opened up about the deeply emotional experience of watching Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson embody his life story in the new biopic The Smashing Machine. In a candid interview on the “INSIGHT” podcast with Chris Van Vliet, Kerr disclosed that he literally cried when he first saw The Rock’s performance, highlighting the impact the film had on him[1].
From UFC Warrior to Film Subject: Kerr’s Unbelievable Journey
Kerr’s rise to fame as a formidable UFC heavyweight made him a household name in mixed martial arts during the 1990s. However, his journey was also marked by brutal personal battles, including struggles with addiction and mental health. These struggles are intricately woven into the narrative of the film, which has sparked widespread anticipation.
“I couldn’t believe someone like The Rock was stepping in to tell my story. At first, it felt unreal—like ‘this can’t be happening.’ But then, when I saw the film, I was overwhelmed. I actually cried,” Kerr reflected[1]. This reaction reveals the powerful authenticity Johnson brought to his portrayal of Kerr’s turbulent but inspiring life.
The Rock’s Intense Preparation and Immersion
Sources close to the production reveal that The Rock immersed himself completely in Kerr’s persona to do justice to the role. According to a WWE insider, Johnson approached the project with great respect, aiming to capture not just the physicality but also the vulnerability of Kerr’s life.
One backstage source shared, “The Rock was intent on showing the emotional depths of Mark’s journey. He wanted the fans to feel the highs and lows, the chaos of MMA in those early days, and the pain behind the toughness.” This dedication is reflected in several scenes, including one where The Rock’s expression conveys raw confusion and vulnerability without needing explicit dialogue—a testament to his acting prowess mentioned during the film’s interviews[2].
Capturing the Chaos of the MMA Scene
The Smashing Machine delves into the gritty, often wild atmosphere of early MMA promotions such as Pride and the UFC. Kerr praised the film for its accurate presentation of fighting culture, including the blurred lines between glory and personal destruction.
“The Rock nailed it,” Kerr said. “He captured the madness, the weirdness, the intense atmosphere we lived in—everything happening around us that most people never saw or understood”[4]. This level of authenticity is crucial for fans and newcomers alike to grasp what fighters endured outside the cage.
Critical Acclaim and Emotional Resonance
Critics and fans have praised the film not only for its thrilling fight sequences but also for its heartfelt portrayal of Kerr’s life story, which goes beyond the physical battles to explore mental health and redemption. The combination of Kerr’s openness and Johnson’s commitment has resulted in a moving and immersive biopic that resonates deeply with viewers[3].
Kerr’s own emotional response serves as a powerful endorsement. Seeing his past laid bare on the big screen while realizing someone else was carrying his legacy was profoundly moving. “When you live through the chaos, you don’t always realize how much you’ve been through until you see it told back to you. The Rock made this real,” Kerr commented.
Behind the Scenes: The Rock’s Personal Connection
In conversations shared on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Kerr described a personal moment between him and The Rock during the making of the movie. Johnson had planned a dramatic announcement of the film at Madison Square Garden, underscoring his belief in the project’s importance.
Kerr said, “He asked, ‘Do you trust me with this?’ And I said, ‘Yeah, I do.’ He’s a great dude—solid and genuine.” Their friendship and mutual respect helped anchor the film’s emotional core[4]. After the project wrapped, The Rock even left a heartfelt message for Kerr, highlighting the connection forged beyond the cameras.
What This Means for WWE and MMA Fans
For WWE fans, The Rock’s involvement adds an exciting layer of crossover appeal. His portrayal of Kerr opens the door for greater appreciation of MMA’s early fighters who paved the way for the sport’s growth. According to a WWE insider, “Projects like this help spotlight the complex stories behind the fighters, many of whom have inspired countless WWE superstars.”
For MMA enthusiasts, the film acts as both a tribute and an education, offering insight into a pivotal era through the eyes of one of its most iconic warriors.
Release and Reception
The Smashing Machine is set to be released widely on October 3, 2025, bringing Kerr’s compelling life story to theaters and streaming platforms. Given the buzz surrounding The Rock’s transformative performance and Kerr’s heartfelt endorsement, anticipation continues to build.
Fans can expect a blend of intense fight scenes and powerful emotional storytelling, making the film a must-watch for anyone interested in sports biopics, MMA history, or compelling human drama.
In summary, Mark Kerr’s tearful reaction to seeing The Rock authentically portray him confirms the film’s emotional gravity. As wrestling and MMA worlds intersect with Hollywood, The Smashing Machine promises a raw, honest look at struggle, redemption, and the human spirit inside the cage.