Dwayne Johnson to Portray UFC Legend Mark Kerr in Upcoming Film

Actor Dwayne Johnson, known for his action-packed roles, is set to star as UFC legend Mark Kerr in an upcoming biopic. The film, a collaboration with A24, presents a significant departure for Johnson, exploring the life of Kerr, an MMA fighter who overcame a troubled past marked by addiction. Johnson’s portrayal of Kerr is anticipated to redefine MMA movies, setting a new standard within the genre.

This marks the second collaboration between Johnson and acclaimed actress Emily Blunt, following their roles in Disney’s ‘Jungle Cruise‘ in 2021. In this film, Blunt will portray Dawn Staples, Mark Kerr’s wife. Her commitment to the role has been notably demonstrated by her deep dive into learning more about Dawn’s character, as reported by MMA legend and co-star Bas Rutten. Rutten shared a humorous anecdote about Blunt’s dedication during his appearance on the ‘Overdogs’ podcast, illustrating her intention to fully embody her character.

Dwayne Johnson, often referred to as ‘The Rock‘, has been praised for his dedication to accurately depicting Kerr, earning accolades for the intensity of his performance. Johnson went so far as to train with Kerr himself, gaining firsthand insight into the complexities of his character’s life. “It’s like your stomach turns when you read the script,” said Bas Rutten, highlighting the dramatic depth the film aims to capture. Johnson expressed excitement over working with Blunt again, saying, “It’s much different than what we did with ‘Jungle Cruise,’ but I got to tell you there is no greater partner in our industry than Emily who I would want to have to rip this thing open.”

On the final day of his intense training regimen, Johnson shared photos, marking the culmination of his preparation for the role. He expressed gratitude to Kerr, who participated in the training, acknowledging Kerr’s enduring athleticism even at the age of 55. Johnson remarked, “He’s still a fu—-g machine, that can close the distance with scary speed and power,” further portraying the authenticity both he and Kerr bring to the project.

The film is generating excitement among fans and critics alike and is expected to resonate strongly with audiences. Johnson’s dedication to the role suggests a nuanced portrayal of Kerr’s life and career, potentially establishing a new benchmark for MMA films.