The upcoming film The Smashing Machine, featuring Dwayne Johnson as MMA icon Mark Kerr and Emily Blunt as Dawn Staples, is set to release on October 3, 2025. The movie chronicles Kerr’s journey in mixed martial arts, his struggles with addiction, and the complexities of his relationship with Staples. As anticipation builds for the film, many fans are curious about the current lives of its real-life subjects.
Mark Kerr, born on December 21, 1968, in Toledo, Ohio, transitioned from wrestling to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 1997. He rose to prominence in the sport, becoming a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion and competing in PRIDE FC, where his aggressive fighting style earned him the nickname “The Smashing Machine.”
Following his retirement from MMA in 2009, Kerr shifted his career path, taking up a position at a Toyota dealership until 2015. He faced health challenges, revealing in 2019 that he has been dealing with peripheral neuropathy since 2016. To address his medical expenses, he launched a GoFundMe campaign, highlighting the ongoing struggles he faced even after his fighting career ended.
In recent months, Kerr has been actively involved in promoting The Smashing Machine. The film is generating significant buzz, with many industry insiders predicting it could be a contender for the Oscars. This renewed attention draws inspiration from the 2002 HBO documentary that initially documented Kerr’s rise in MMA alongside his battle with personal demons.
Dawn Staples, who portrayed a significant role in Kerr’s life, has also moved forward since their marriage ended in 2015. After studying at Phoenix College and working as a model, Staples became a real estate investor. Today, she is an interior decorator, running her own studio, Final Touches by Design, located in Phoenix.
The film dives into their relationship, which began in 2000 when they married and later welcomed a son, Bryce, who pursued football during his high school years. The narrative explores how Kerr’s high-risk career impacted their union and ultimately led to its dissolution.
Both Kerr and Staples have embraced new chapters in their lives, reflecting resilience and adaptability. As The Smashing Machine prepares to hit theaters, their stories continue to resonate with fans and audiences alike, reminding us of the complexities behind the headlines.
