Oleksandr Usyk Joins Cast of A24’s “The Smashing Machine” Opposite Dwayne Johnson

Today, A24 announced that the newly crowned Undisputed World Heavyweight Boxing Champion Oleksandr Usyk will be joining the cast of the upcoming film “The Smashing Machine.” Usyk will portray MMA legend Igor Vovchanchyn, starring alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Academy Award-nominated Emily Blunt.

“The Smashing Machine,” written and directed by Benny Safdie, is a drama inspired by the true story of Mark Kerr, the legendary mixed martial artist from the no-holds-barred era of the UFC. The film delves into Kerr’s struggles with addiction, his victories, and his tumultuous relationships during the peak of his career in the year 2000.

Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks Productions, along with Benny Safdie’s Out for the Count banner, Eli Bush, and David Koplan, are producing the film. Johnson and Safdie have been collaborators on this project since Seven Bucks Productions acquired the rights in 2019. A24 has joined as a partner, providing production and financing support.

Mark Kerr, whose life the film is based on, is an American former wrestler and mixed martial artist. During his MMA career, he earned titles such as two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, World Vale Tudo Championship tournament winner, PRIDE FC Heavyweight Champion, 1992 NCAA National Wrestling Champion, 1994 National Freestyle Champion, and four-time ADCC World Submission Champion. Kerr’s journey was the subject of the 2003 HBO documentary “The Smashing Machine,” which chronicled his career in Vale Tudo, the UFC, and PRIDE.

With Usyk’s recent triumph in the boxing ring and his move to the silver screen, fans are eager to see his portrayal of Vovchanchyn, adding another layer of authenticity and excitement to the film.