Oleksandr Usyk to Star as MMA Legend Alongside ‘The Rock’ in Mark Kerr Film

Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk is set to make his Hollywood debut alongside none other than Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The two will share the screen in the upcoming biographical film titled “The Smashing Machine”, which chronicles the life of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC tournament champion.

“The Smashing Machine” delves into the true events surrounding Mark Kerr’s life and rise through the MMA world. Kerr, a college wrestler, fought in early iterations of the UFC and PRIDE, among other various MMA tournaments in the 1990s. His immensely powerful build and dogged determination made him a force to be reckoned with. However, his career was unfortunately derailed by his opioid addiction.

Oleksandr Usyk set to portray PRIDE legend alongside ‘The Rock’ in Mark Kerr biopic https://t.co/NyKmEIZhqE
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) May 23, 2024

What Role does Oleksandr Usyk Play ?

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Portrays Mark Kerr, the legendary MMA fighter.
Oleksandr Usyk: Takes on the role of Igor Vovchanchyn, another fearsome martial artist who faced Kerr twice in. Vovchanchyn defeated Kerr via second-round TKO at PRIDE 7 in September 1999.
Emily Blunt: Rumored to play Dawn Staples, a character associated with Kerr.
Lyndsey Gavin: Cast as Elizabeth Coleman.
Director Benny Safdie: Behind the camera, bringing Kerr’s story to life.

Mark Kerr’s Legacy

Mark Kerr’s journey was marked by both triumphs and struggles. As a close friend of UFC fighter Mark Coleman, he left an indelible mark on the MMA world. His participation in the documentary “The Smashing Machine” (2002) provided an intimate look at his training, competing, and volatile relationship with his girlfriend. Allegations of steroid use followed him, but his impact on the sport remains undeniable.

With Oleksandr Usyk stepping into the shoes of Igor Vovchanchyn, and Dwayne Johnson embodying Mark Kerr, “The Smashing Machine” promises to be a riveting portrayal of MMA legends and the challenges they faced both inside and outside the cage. Fans of combat sports and cinematic drama alike eagerly await its release in 2025.