JRE 2384 · September 25, 2025

Mark Kerr

mmasportspsychologyfilmhealth

Who is Mark Kerr?

Joe sits down with retired mixed martial artist and wrestler Mark Kerr. Kerr is the subject of the A24 feature film "The Smashing Machine," directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne Johnson. Look for it in theaters on October 3, 2025.

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Topics and Timestamps

01Mark Kerr discusses his career as a dominant wrestler and MMA fighter before his struggles with addiction
02The new A24 film 'The Smashing Machine' starring Dwayne Johnson tells Kerr's story and hits theaters October 3, 2025
03Kerr opens up about his journey through recovery and how the documentary process helped him reflect on his life
04Discussion covers the physical and mental toll of elite combat sports training and competition
05Kerr shares insights into his wrestling background and how it translated to MMA dominance
06The conversation touches on the importance of mental health support and personal accountability in athletic careers
▶Mark Kerr discusses his rise to dominance in wrestling and MMA0:05:00
▶Kerr opens up about his personal struggles and addiction0:15:30
▶Discussion of 'The Smashing Machine' film with Dwayne Johnson0:25:45
▶Kerr reflects on his recovery journey and personal accountability0:40:00
▶Joe and Mark discuss the mental health challenges of elite athletics0:50:15

The Show

Joe Rogan sits down with Mark Kerr, one of the most dominant mixed martial artists and wrestlers of his era, to discuss his incredible career and the new A24 feature film 'The Smashing Machine' directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne Johnson. The film chronicles Kerr's rise to dominance in both wrestling and MMA, as well as his personal struggles and journey toward recovery.

Kerr's career was marked by his exceptional grappling ability and dominance in the cage. He was a force to be reckoned with, combining his elite wrestling background with devastating MMA skills. However, his life took a darker turn as he struggled with personal demons that threatened to derail everything he had accomplished. The documentary and now this feature film provide a raw look at both his triumphs and the genuine challenges he faced.

Throughout the conversation, Kerr is candid about his past struggles and how he's worked toward recovery and redemption. Joe and Mark discuss the pressures of elite athletic competition, the mental health challenges that often accompany such intense physical pursuits, and how Kerr has rebuilt his life. The conversation touches on the importance of support systems, accountability, and the willingness to confront one's demons head-on.

The A24 film represents a significant cultural moment, bringing MMA history and personal redemption to mainstream audiences. With Dwayne Johnson starring in the lead role, the story of Mark Kerr reaches far beyond traditional fight fans. The discussion highlights how important it is to tell these kinds of stories, stories that show the human side of athletic greatness and the real work required to overcome adversity.

Kerr's openness about his journey makes for compelling conversation, and Joe pushes him on the specifics of his recovery and what he's learned about himself in the process. This is a conversation about legacy, redemption, and the ongoing work of becoming the best version of yourself.