Vin Diesel recently highlighted the strength of his bond with Mark Kerr while celebrating Dwayne Johnson’s Smashing Machine performance. Sharing his reflections online in late November, Diesel conveyed the significance of the portrayal and his pride in the film, which explores Kerr’s journey as an MMA and UFC pioneer.
Longstanding Relationship Between Diesel and Kerr
The actor emphasized his history with Mark Kerr, noting their enduring friendship since Diesel’s first days in California. As Diesel revealed,
What most people don’t realize is that Mark Kerr was one of the first friends I made when I moved from New York to California.
– Vin Diesel. This early connection shaped both their personal and professional lives.
He expressed gratitude for Kerr’s kindness, stating,
We hit it off immediately, and the reason is simple: he is genuinely one of the kindest, most warm-hearted people you will ever meet. He actually trained me for the first XXX. So, in a beautiful way, he was there at the beginning of my action career. That’s the kind of friend he’s been from day one.
– Vin Diesel. This strong support had a lasting impact on Diesel’s career and personal growth.
Dwayne Johnson’s Influence in The Fast and the Furious Franchise
Turning the focus to Dwayne Johnson, Diesel shared how inspiration for Johnson’s inclusion in The Fast and the Furious stemmed from fan excitement, describing a dynamic on-screen partnership. Of their collaboration, Diesel wrote,
two strong personalities who pushed each other and created something unforgettable.
– Vin Diesel. He further added,
When he stepped into Hobbs, he did it with full commitment and left an indelible mark on Universal’s character hall of fame.
– Vin Diesel. Johnson’s presence redefined the franchise and brought new energy through his portrayal of Luke Hobbs.
Mark Kerr’s Story Brought to the Forefront
Diesel celebrated Kerr’s achievements, especially his induction into the UFC Hall of Fame, and the recognition earned through his story being brought to screen. He said,
Watching Mark Kerr get inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame because his story was finally told was such a proud moment,
– Vin Diesel. The portrayal in The Smashing Machine enabled a wider audience to appreciate Kerr’s journey and determination.
Diesel applauded both Kerr and Dwayne Johnson, stating,
Mark Kerr is so deserving of this moment… and Dwayne really did it… He brought us back in time and shined doing it. Proud of you both.
– Vin Diesel.
Key Details About The Smashing Machine Release
The Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdie, is a sports biopic chronicling Mark Kerr’s legacy in MMA and the UFC. Dwayne Johnson stars in the lead role with Emily Blunt portraying Kerr’s girlfriend, Dawn Staples, reinforcing the emotional intensity and resonance that Diesel highlighted in his tribute.
The Lasting Significance of Diesel’s Acknowledgment
Vin Diesel’s recent statements reflect a genuine bond with both Mark Kerr and Dwayne Johnson, blending personal history with his enthusiasm for their achievements. As the film reaches audiences, both Kerr’s UFC Hall of Fame recognition and Dwayne Johnson’s Smashing Machine performance are set to stand out in sports cinema, amplifying their legacies and inspiring fans across the globe.
