Bas Rutten recently spoke about The Smashing Machine and its potential impact on how MMA pioneers are perceived by the public. The tells the true story of UFC legend Mark Kerr.
The film explores Kerr’s rise, personal struggles, and addiction from 1997 until 2000. Dwayne Johnson plays Kerr, while Emily Blunt portrays Kerr’s ex-wife, Dawn Staples. Ryan Bader plays fellow fighter Mark Coleman, and Rutten appears himself.
Critics have praise the film, especially noting Johnson’s serious and emotional performance as being a welcomed dramatic shift.
With MMA’s popularity growing, the sport continues gaining respect beyond just hardcore fighting fans. Rutten believes the film gives long-overdue recognition to the sport’s pioneers, who helped build the foundation of the sport.
In a recent interview with Heavy Sports, Rutten highlighted Johnson’s involvement with the film and its significance to the sport. ‘El Guapo’ emphasized that the film will help audiences better understand the sport’s early years and personal sacrifices.
“One hundred percent [my era will be appreciated more],” Rutten said. “I think now it shines a light on whatever you see on TV and on the big screen, or whatever it is, it doesn’t mean your life is in perfect order.”
Rutten believes Kerr’s story is powerful and a reminder that many fighters face similar challenges outside the cage. The film is a reminder that fighters are human, often battling their own personal demons away from the spotlight.
“A lot of these guys, there’s more fighters that go through the same struggles, crazy struggles, and craziness at home.”
Bas Rutten Opens Up About Being an MMA Pioneer
Bas Rutten also discussed being an MMA pioneer and expressed gratitude for being a part of the sport’s early years. He began his career in Pancrase, where he became openweight champion.
Rutten later joined the UFC in 1999 and made a strong impression, defeating Tsuyoshi Kohsaka via TKO. He followed that up with a split decision victory over Kevin Randleman to capture the vacant heavyweight championship.
His UFC career was cut short, as injuries forced him into retirement. Despite retiring in 1999, he returned in 2006 for one final fight in 2006 under the WFA banner. There, Rutten defeated Ruben Villareal via 1st round TKO, ending his career with a 28-4-1 record.
Speaking to Heavy Sports, Rutten reflected on being part of MMA’s earliest generation. He expressed pride in having competed during a raw and foundational time in the sport.
“How cool is that we are the pioneers? There’s only a certain amount of pioneers, like 150-200 guys,” Rutten said. “That will always stay the same. The champions keep on coming and going, but the guys that started it and to be a part of that, I’m very proud of that.”
Rutten’s Work in the Entertainment Industry
The Smashing Machine isn’t Rutten’s first project in the entertainment industry. Since 1992, the MMA legend has been involved in a variety of projects including TV, film, and even video games.
Rutten had a memorable role and provided motion capture for Grand Theft Auto IV, bringing realism to the action sequences. He also appeared in several comedies alongside his longtime friend, actor Kevin James.
Rutten’s acting credits include The King of Queens, Here Comes the Boom, Paul Blart: Mall Cop, and Kevin Can Wait. These appearances showcased his versatility beyond fighting and highlighted his charismatic personality on-screen.