Overview

• The first official trailer for 'The Smashing Machine' debuted on April 29, 2025, showcasing Dwayne Johnson's dramatic transformation into UFC legend Mark Kerr through prosthetics and intense preparation.
• Directed by Benny Safdie in his solo feature debut, the biopic explores Kerr's rise in MMA, his struggles with addiction, and the personal costs of his career, drawing inspiration from the 2002 HBO documentary of the same name.
• Emily Blunt co-stars as Dawn Staples, Kerr's wife, adding emotional depth to the film's portrayal of the sacrifices made by fighters' families.
• MMA community figures, including Nina Marie Daniele and Mark Coleman, have praised the trailer's authenticity, with Coleman calling it a homage to the sport's early days.
• Set for an October 3, 2025 release, the film has sparked early awards speculation for Johnson's performance and its makeup, crafted by two-time Oscar winner Kazu Hiro.