Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning undisputed heavyweight boxing champion, is reportedly set to make his Hollywood debut alongside WWE legend and Hollywood superstar Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. Usyk will star in the upcoming movie “The Smashing Machine,” in which he will portray Ukrainian combatant Igor Vovchanchyn.
Vovchanchyn, a fearsome martial artist, faced fellow fighter Mark Kerr twice in MMA competitions. Their encounters, which took place in Pride FC, were notable for their intensity and skill. The upcoming movie, titled “The Smashing Machine,” is based on Kerr’s life and career, chronicling his journey as a dominant force in the MMA world.
Usyk’s involvement in the film marks his Hollywood debut, adding another dimension to his diverse portfolio beyond boxing. Despite his limited English proficiency, Usyk’s charisma and star quality have caught the attention of industry insiders, including boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, who previously praised Usyk’s potential for success in entertainment.
The movie is being produced by Johnson’s ‘Seven Bucks Productions’ and distributed by A24, with Benny Safdie serving as director and co-writer alongside Kerr. Usyk joins a star-studded cast that includes Emily Blunt, Ryan Bader, Lyndsey Gavin, and Zoe Kosovic.
The project, initially slated to begin in 2019, faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic but is expected to be released in 2025. Usyk’s involvement in the film reflects his growing influence and popularity beyond the realm of boxing, signaling a new chapter in his career trajectory. While Usyk remains committed to his boxing pursuits, his foray into Hollywood suggests a potential future transition to the entertainment industry once his fighting days are behind him.
