Vin Diesel Celebrates Dwayne Johnson and Mark Kerr’s Achievements

Vin Diesel recently shared his admiration for both Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and MMA legend Mark Kerr following the release of the film The Smashing Machine. The actor took to social media on November 25, 2025, to reflect on his personal connection with Kerr and to praise Johnson’s portrayal of him in the biographical sports drama.

In an emotional Instagram post, Diesel highlighted the significance of Kerr in his life, stating, “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.” He emphasized the warmth and kindness of Kerr, noting, “He actually trained me for the first XXX. So, in a beautiful way, he was there at the beginning of my action career.” This personal connection underscores the depth of their friendship and Kerr’s influence on Diesel’s early career.

Diesel Reflects on Johnson’s Impact

Shifting gears, Diesel expressed his admiration for Johnson’s performance in The Smashing Machine, which chronicles Kerr’s remarkable journey in the world of mixed martial arts. He recounted how a fan’s comment inspired him to bring Johnson into the Fast and Furious franchise, stating, “When he stepped into Hobbs, he did it with full commitment and left an indelible mark on Universal’s character hall of fame.” Their collaborative energy has created memorable moments on screen, showcasing two powerful actors pushing each other to create something extraordinary.

Diesel also celebrated Kerr’s induction into the UFC Hall of Fame, a moment he described as profoundly meaningful. “Watching Mark Kerr get inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame because his story was finally told was such a proud moment,” he remarked. This recognition serves as a testament to Kerr’s legacy in the sport and the impact of his story on fans and fighters alike.

A Tribute to Friendship and Achievement

As Diesel concluded his post, he reaffirmed his pride in both Johnson and Kerr. “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.” His heartfelt words reflect not just his admiration for their professional achievements but also the personal bonds that have been formed through their journeys.

Directed by Benny Safdie, The Smashing Machine features Johnson in the lead role, with Emily Blunt portraying his girlfriend, Dawn Staples. The film aims to shed light on the complexities of Kerr’s life, from his challenges to his triumphs in the octagon, and adds another layer to the rich narrative of mixed martial arts history.

As audiences engage with this compelling story, Diesel’s reflections serve as a reminder of the power of friendship and the impact of storytelling in shaping legacies in sports and entertainment.