Dwayne Johnson first garnered fame from his professional wrestling career, earning The Rock persona. He garnered further acclaim with his transition into the entertainment industry, cementing himself as one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars.
However, the actor, who was synonymous with success and blockbuster movies seems to be grappling with problems, as a UFC challenger, Curtis Blaydes, turned down a significant role in his upcoming movie, The Smashing Machine.
Curtis Blaydes Turns Down a Major Role in Dwayne Johnson’s New Movie
In the glamour world of Hollywood, Dwayne Johnson is a prominent figure who is often seen as an invincible figure, tackling obstacles with ease. However, the reality is otherwise as the actor too faces moments of vulnerability and hardship.
The Moana 2 actor is currently associated with a biographical sports drama film, The Smashing Machine, which is speculated to be released next year. However, the movie is facing major setbacks, with one involving UFC challenger, Curtis Blaydes.
In a recent interview, Blaydes, a formidable contender in the UFC, reflected that he was offered a major role in the upcoming movie but he chose to prioritize his fighting career over that.
Ahead of his rematch with Tom Aspinall, the UFC 304 title challenger told Daniel Cormier that he was initially attached to the movie but rejected it after the movie schedule conflicted with his current fight camp.
He shared,
I was offered to be one of ‘The Rock’s’ gym partners in the movie. We were gonna do it and go up to Vancouver, on like May 16th. Then it got pushed to like June 14th. [But then] I had to fight, so I picked the fight over the movie. Hopefully, I win the fight and get more movie offers.
His choice to pursue his wrestling career eventually yielded great efforts as he ended up bagging more movie offers after winning the challenge. Given that the upcoming movie revolves around the intense world of mixed martial arts, having a personality like Blaydes would have further enhanced the project’s appeal.
Dwayne Johnson Wraps Filming for The Smashing Machine
Although the upcoming A24 project has already witnessed Blaydes’ departure, the movie has recently finished its production in Vancouver earlier than anticipated as reported by Film Stories UK. The Jumanji actor will portray the role of Mark Kerr, the legendary MMA fighter, who is the titular character in the project.
The two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion earned the titular name due to his unique fighting style and incredible strength. Apart from Johnson, Oppenheimer star Emily Blunt also contributes to the project with Benny Safdie taking charge of it as director.
Given that the former already revealed the project delay which led him to make a choice, it could lead many to believe that Johnson’s recent career track is seemingly plagued with setbacks as he hasn’t delivered the powerful blow he’s known for in Hollywood.
However, the situation surrounding the movie offers a glimpse into the often realities of show business, where even a bankable star like the Black Adam actor can’t guarantee a smooth ride. But, it is commendable that the actor has continued to maintain a superstar status in a fiercely competitive industry.
