The Rock is gearing up for another exciting Hollywood project, with filming set to commence soon.
The WWF Attitude Era Legend is set to take on the role of an MMA fighter in a forthcoming drama produced by A24, the same studio behind the 2023 film “The Iron Claw,” which chronicled the rise and fall of the Von Erich family.
Dwayne Johnson will collaborate with director Benny Safdie, known for his work on “Uncut Gems,” to bring this project to life. The film, titled “The Smashing Machine,” will center around the story of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion.
Safdie has penned the script for the project, and joining him in production are Johnson and Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks Productions, Safdie’s Out for the Count banner, along with Eli Bush and David Koplan.
Mark Kerr’s journey in MMA was previously explored in an HBO documentary titled “The Smashing Machine” in 2002, which delved into his professional career, his ascent in MMA, and his struggles with addiction to painkillers, which resulted in an overdose. Kerr earned the moniker “The Smashing Machine” due to his aggressive fighting style.
According to PWInsider, filming for the movie is scheduled to span three months, commencing on May 1, 2024, and concluding on August 1, 2024. Production will take place in various locations including Los Angeles, New Mexico, Tokyo, and Vancouver.
This means The Rock won’t be available for a match at WWE’s Saudi Arabia premium live event in May (due to movie insurance issues), which WWE Officials wanted him to work.
Joining Johnson in the cast for this movie is Emily Blunt, who will portray Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples.
The Rock will main event Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, where he will team up with WWE Champion Roman Reigns to take on the team of Men’s Royal Rumble winner Cody Rhodes & World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins.
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