UFC legend Mark Kerr became known as `The Smashing Machine` due to his incredible ability to demolish opponents, frequently ending fights in the first round.
This October, a film titled ‘The Smashing Machine’ is scheduled for release. Distributed by A24, the movie stars Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson portraying the UFC legend Mark Kerr.
Dwayne Johnson recently revealed that his primary motivation for taking on the role of Kerr in a Hollywood production was the significant challenge it presented, differing greatly from the typical blockbuster films he is known for.
Before his career in mixed martial arts (MMA) and appearances in the UFC and PRIDE, Kerr was a highly accomplished wrestler and grappler. Notably, before transitioning to MMA and the UFC, he defeated Olympic gold medalist Kurt Angle in a wrestling match.
The Genesis of `The Smashing Machine` Nickname: A Streak of Devastating Finishes
In addition to beating Randy Couture during his collegiate wrestling days, Kerr decided to move into MMA following his extremely successful wrestling career.
Teaming up with Mark Coleman, Kerr eagerly embraced the chance to compete in Brazil at the World Vale Tudo Championship. His MMA debut came against UFC veteran Paul Varelans.
Kerr immediately showcased the potential that had generated such anticipation around his move to MMA. He secured a first-round knockout victory over Varelans with a powerful takedown leading to ground-and-pound.
In his subsequent fight, Kerr`s ground-and-pound was so severe against Mestre Hulk that Hulk was disqualified after losing two teeth and crawling out of the ring. Kerr then went on to win the tournament championship in his next match.
His success led to an opportunity to compete in the heavyweight tournament at UFC 14 in 1997. In his UFC debut, Kerr quickly knocked out Moti Horenstein within the initial minutes of the fight.
Later that same evening, he faced Dan Bobish and secured the tournament championship with a bizarrely unique chin-to-eye submission, also ending the bout in the first round.
Kerr`s Dominance Continued at UFC 15
Later that year, Kerr was invited back to the UFC to participate in another heavyweight tournament at UFC 15.
His terrifying power was again evident in his first bout against Greg Stott, whom he knocked out with a powerful knee in just 17 seconds.
Shortly after, Kerr once again leveraged his superior wrestling and grappling skills to submit Dwayne Cason within the first minute of the tournament final. This victory marked his seventh consecutive first-round finish, solidifying his `The Smashing Machine` nickname.
Following this impressive run, `The Smashing Machine` moved to PRIDE, attracted by better compensation than the UFC. He continued his formidable performance there, securing four more finishes.
