The Smashing Machine punches hard — both in and out of the ring.

The Smashing Machine is a gripping, emotional dive into the tumultuous life of Mark Kerr, one of the original legends of mixed martial arts. The film captures the brutal beauty of the sport while exploring the inner struggles of a man who seemed invincible inside the ring but deeply fragile outside of it.

Dwayne Johnson delivers one of his most nuanced performances to date as Kerr — a towering figure of physical dominance haunted by insecurities, addiction, and the pressures of fame. Johnson fully commits to the emotional weight of the role, channeling both Kerr’s ferocity as a fighter and his vulnerability as a man lost in his own shadow.

The fight scenes are electric. Shot with visceral intensity, they evoke the raw energy of old-school PRIDE events from MMA’s golden era. Every punch, slam, and submission feels real — a testament to the cast and crew’s dedication to authenticity. It’s clear that care was taken to recreate the atmosphere and tension of those iconic early MMA days.

Beyond the cage, the film’s emotional core lies in the strained relationship between Kerr and his girlfriend Dawn. Their dynamic adds depth and humanity to the narrative. While Kerr’s battles with addiction and self-doubt unfold painfully, Dawn’s attempts to reach the man behind the monster highlight the tragedy of a life defined by physical power but emotional isolation.

The Smashing Machine succeeds in being both a thrilling sports drama and a sobering portrait of self-destruction. Though not flawless, it’s an unflinching and heartfelt look at the cost of greatness — and a reminder that even the strongest fighters can’t always win their hardest battles.

Verdict: 7.5/10 A powerful blend of realism, raw emotion, and authentic MMA energy.