Hollywood’s highest paid actor is apparently not satisfied with just stepping into the WWE ring and has started MMA training.

Dwayne Johnson, also known as ‘The Rock’ has captured the attention of his 397 million Instagram followers by sharing his first day of mixed martial arts (MMA) training.

Fresh off his appearance at WrestleMania XL in Philadelphia this past April, Johnson is not just rekindling his wrestling roots but is also preparing for a demanding new role in the upcoming movie The Smashing Machine.

In The Smashing Machine, Johnson will portray Mark Kerr, a former UFC fighter who was a two-time Heavyweight Tournament Champion and a Vale Tudo World Champion.

The movie is inspired by the 2002 HBO documentary directed by John Hyams, which delves into the highs and lows of Kerr‘s professional and personal life, including his battles with addiction and the intricate dynamics of the fighting industry.

Johnson‘s preparation for the role comes after his production company, Seven Buck Productions, announced the making of the movie five years ago. Slated for a 2025 release, the movie will also star Emily Blunt and is directed by Benny Safdie.

The Rock’s Unyielding Commitment at 52

Known for his rigorous training regimen, Johnson, at 52, maintains a schedule that includes training three times a day – a challenging routine to balance with his bustling professional commitments.

His recent return to the WWE ring after a decade was no small feat; Johnson trained extensively at his home gym to prepare for a 45-minute bout, proving he could still hold his own against the top names in wrestling.

The role of Mark Kerr presents a new kind of challenge for Johnson. While professional wrestling is second nature to him – akin to riding a bike, thanks to his family background – the physical and psychological demands of portraying an MMA fighter like Kerr will push him into uncharted territory.

To authentically embody Kerr, who retired in 2009 with a record of 15 wins and 11 losses, Johnson will need to master unfamiliar fighting techniques and movements that could pose risks to his physical health.

As Johnson embarks on this new journey, he is set to explore and expand his limits, both physically and mentally. This role not only demands intense physical preparation but also a deep psychological understanding of a character with a tumultuous life, making it one of Johnson’s most challenging roles to date.